I’ve been building a post in my head for some time to distinguish between a real Republican/conservative in the Eisenhower model, and whatever-it-is that wears that label now. But that post hasn’t come together yet. In the meantime, please enjoy this quote from the real item:
Now it is true that I believe this country is following a dangerous trend when it permits too great a degree of centralization of governmental functions. I oppose this—in some instances the fight is a rather desperate one. But to attain any success it is quite clear that the Federal government cannot avoid or escape responsibilities which the mass of the people firmly believe should be undertaken by it. The political processes of our country are such that if a rule of reason is not applied in this effort, we will lose everything—even to a possible and drastic change in the Constitution. This is what I mean by my constant insistence upon “moderation” in government. Should any political party attempt to abolish social security, unemployment insurance, and eliminate labor laws and farm programs, you would not hear of that party again in our political history. There is a tiny splinter group, of course, that believes you can do these things. Among them are H. L. Hunt (you possibly know his background), a few other Texas oil millionaires, and an occasional politician or business man from other areas. Their number is negligible and they are stupid.
Dwight Eisenhower
letter to his brother 08 Nov 1954
There must be a little bit of Ike frozen in nitrogen somewhere… please, couldn’t we clone him? The more I read of his writing and speeches the more I realize that it isn’t conservatism or the Republican party I dislike, just the alien brain-slugs that seem to have hijacked both labels. Real conservatism is a damned good thing.
Notes:
1: Knowing I am planning an Eisenhower series, a correspondent advises, “please make sure to read up on “Rheinwiesenlager”, too.” This is a case of postwar abuse against German POW’s in Germany after the war, and quite horrific. Since Eisnehower was alleged to have been involved at a high level it makes his distrust of the military-industrial complex even more intriguing. Had he had his fill? Did he feel guilty? Was he frightened of what continuing war would do to our national character (or what effect it had on his?)