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Let’s Stop Calling the GOP “Conservatives”, Shall We? [1]

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Date: 2025-04-17

Conservatism, in its traditional form, is a political philosophy rooted in the preservation of established institutions, skepticism toward rapid change, and a belief in individual liberty, rule of law, and limited government. Its American expression has long been associated with reverence for the Constitution, fiscal restraint, strong national defense, and a cautious approach to social reform. At its best, conservatism prizes civil discourse, respect for pluralism, and an enduring commitment to democratic norms.

Fascism, by contrast, is a far-right, authoritarian ideology that elevates the power of the state—often embodied in a single charismatic leader—above all else. It thrives on ultranationalism, suppression of dissent, racial or ethnic scapegoating, and the glorification of violence. Fascist movements reject liberal democracy, seek to dismantle independent institutions, and mobilize mass loyalty through propaganda and fear. When analyzing today’s Republican Party, it becomes increasingly clear that many of its actions and rhetoric no longer align with the values of traditional conservatism. To continue calling its dominant faction “conservative” is misleading; the party now exhibits far more in common with fascist movements than with Edmund Burke or Ronald Reagan.

Trumpism has refashioned the GOP into a personality cult where power, grievance, and spectacle matter more than governance or conservative ideology. The traditional reverence for the Constitution (even if at times it felt like lip service) has given way to blatant efforts to subvert it, most notably through attempts to overturn democratic elections and undermine the judiciary and free press. Rather than conserving democratic norms, the party has embraced tactics such as voter suppression, disinformation, and open disdain for the rule of law—all hallmarks of authoritarian politics. What was once a movement of ideas has become one of intimidation and consolidation of power.

The rhetoric and actions of Trump and his allies increasingly mirror those of fascist regimes of the 20th century. The dehumanization of immigrants, the scapegoating of marginalized groups, and the relentless calls for political violence are not incidental—they are strategic. They serve to unify followers against a perceived internal enemy, foster a siege mentality, and justify extraordinary measures to retain control. The GOP’s growing tolerance for political extremism, including associations with militias and white nationalist groups, marks a chilling departure from any form of principled conservatism.

This rejection of traditional conservative values is not just an internal crisis for the Republican Party—it is a threat to American democracy itself. By discarding the guardrails that once distinguished conservatism from extremism, the GOP has created a vacuum where fascist tendencies can flourish. The challenge now is not simply political but moral: whether citizens, institutions, and remaining principled conservatives will confront this transformation or allow it to solidify into a new, dangerous norm.

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