I frequently conflate libertarianism with conservatism. Partly that's because I'm one of those libertarian-ish Conservatives, which could be described as wanting government to provide those things that, realistically, only government can provide, such as roads, the military, diplomacy, law enforcement, etc., while staying out of individual lives as much as possible. This latter category includes decriminalizing much drug use and avoiding (well, at this point, getting out of) the charity business, also known as Welfare. I'm realistic, though, so I view them as unattainable goals that I strive for.
Bill Ardolino has noticed a couple of discussions on the dependence of the Republican Party on libertarians, especially relatively middle-of-the-roaders like Bill and me. It seems like a lot of folks want to credit President Bush's reelection primarily to religious fundamentalists. But as Bill notes, "we're the crucial (and politically reasonable) voting block that handed Bush the election with nearly as much verve as the vaunted evangelicals." Although I'm not so sure about the "nearly" part. I guess I'm more conservative and less libertarian than Bill.
Also, Bill asked for a random hug. So Bill, here's your hug.
