UMVA has learned that former U.S. Vice-President Mike Pence is launching a bold new initiative to revive the conservative agenda within the Republican Party through his book, What Conservatives Believe: Rediscovering the American Conscience.
Pence's book is a clarion call to Republicans to recommit to traditional conservative values, and he is using the title of Ronald Reagan's iconic 1964 speech, "A Republican Time for Choosing," to frame his message. In it, Pence warns that the party faces a critical choice: to remain true to conservative principles or to succumb to the allure of populism.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Pence views populism as a threat to conservative values, describing it as "progressivism in disguise." He argues that populists seek to use government activism to advance their agenda, mirroring the approach of liberals and progressives within the Democratic Party.
Pence specifically criticizes government intervention in private companies, tariffs, protectionism, and price controls as departures from the traditional conservative agenda. He also laments the erosion of support for traditional family values and the party's wavering commitment to promoting freedom and limited government globally.
In a striking convergence of views, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has articulated a similar vision, emphasizing individual freedom, limited government, and free markets as core American principles. Thomas framed these principles as universal and uniquely American, rather than conservative.
Thomas and Pence both highlight the importance of America's founding principles, as enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. They argue that progressives have rejected these principles in favor of European-style government activism, leading to a bloated federal budget and a departure from American values.
The conversation around American values and responsibilities has significant implications for the country's global leadership. As Thomas noted, America's commitment to universal rights and responsibilities extends beyond its borders, and the nation has a duty to promote freedom and limited government.
Pence's book is a courageous attempt to revive the conservative agenda, but its message resonates far beyond the Republican Party. With nearly half of Americans identifying as independents, Pence's call to action must be heard by a broader audience if it is to have a lasting impact.
