The Battle of Ideologies: Liberals and Conservatives Over the Last 30 Years
Over the past three decades, the affiliations and victories of liberals and conservatives have shifted in different directions. While liberals have gained ground on social issues, conservatives have made significant strides in government control. This dynamic has been characterized by a range of policy advancements and political strategies that have fundamentally changed the landscape of American politics.
Social Issues: A Resounding Gain for Liberals
The most notable shift has been in the realm of social issues. Liberals have achieved substantial progress in this domain. For example, the legalization of same-sex marriage was a long-standing issue that saw a dramatic shift in public opinion. Just a few years ago, the idea that a majority of the country would support same-sex marriage was unprecedented. The legal battle around legalizing same-sex marriage also solidified its status as a key issue for conservatives, who believed it was a crucial measure to uphold traditional values. This concept worked in Republican favor, as it drew support that influenced the electorate beyond just this issue.
The tide has turned, however. Now, the majority of Americans support same-sex marriage, and the idea of legalizing marijuana (once termed a “hippie” issue) has gained significant traction as well. Even the death penalty, which was once wildly popular among conservatives, has seen a decline in support. The American public now seems more concerned with reducing the death penalty, indicating a broader shift in values against capital punishment.
Economic Policies: Liberals’ Gains and Conservatives’ Strategy
The economic policies sphere, particularly regarding healthcare, has been a point of contention. Health care reform, led by Obamacare, is a defining issue for liberals. Although it is not the most popular program, the public's dissatisfaction with Obamacare stems from the fact that it did not go far enough. The initial goals of a comprehensive healthcare reform have not been fully achieved, leaving the status quo largely intact. In contrast, despite the decline of issues like universal healthcare, conservatives have been more successful in translating their shrinking political influence into greater control over the government, especially in Congress.
Another significant area of progress for conservatives, particularly in the 2000s, was the Iraq War. Although this was a significant victory for the neo-conservatives, it was hollow in the aftermath as the country became increasingly war-weary. The public's sentiment shifted, and there was a growing aversion to military conflicts. This shift led to a greater sentiment against prolonged military engagements and a resistance to the "Vietnam syndrome." The public's reflection on these experiences now makes any future military action more challenging to justify.
Conservatives' Government Control and Voter Suppression
One of the most alarming shifts has been the conservatives' endless pursuit of government control. Initially, the federal government often led the people. Legislation like the Voting Rights and Civil Rights Acts would have failed if put to a democratic vote. The liberal Warren Court, which passed numerous rulings criticized by conservatives, was also a prime example. However, in recent years, the government has moved further to the right, and the Republican Party has become adept at using government inaction as a vehicle for conservative victory.
A prime example of this is the Republican Party's use of the filibuster in the Senate, which they utilized to obtain a 60-vote majority as a strategy to obstruct legislation. This tactic has solidified the perception of government control by conservatives, despite the lack of popular support. The government's refusal to pass 'no fly no buy' rules, such as the one that would prevent people on the terrorist no-fly list from purchasing firearms, exemplifies the government's rightward shift. Furthermore, the lack of background checks, supported by a majority of the public, is another testament to this trend.
The decline in union power has also contributed to liberal minorities' difficulties in getting their votes out. Unions once served as robust tools for driving voter turnout, but their influence has waned, likely leading to a corresponding decrease in liberal engagement in electoral processes.
The fact that conservative governors often refuse to implement measures to simplify and improve voting processes, such as expanding voting hours or increasing polling locations in areas of need, is a stark illustration of the right's efforts to maintain control. Often, these officials give away the usual cover by claiming these measures are needed to protect the integrity of the political system, but the underlying motive is clear: to maintain power and suppress the opposition.
In conclusion, over the last three decades, both liberals and conservatives have made unequivocal gains in their respective areas—liberals on social issues and conservatives on government control. This dynamic reflects the complex and evolving political landscape in America and poses ongoing challenges for both groups as they navigate these shifting sands.