Historian: GOP and Dems Differ on Government's Purpose, Not Size

Redefining "Big Government"

• 🎯 The core difference between Democrats and Republicans isn't about limited versus big government, but rather about different visions for the purposes and programs of government.
• 💡 A central paradox in US politics is that citizens desire government benefits, a trend prominent since the New Deal, yet simultaneously express dislike for government itself.

Republican Approach to Government

• 🏛️ Contrary to popular belief, Republicans, when examined closely, have historically not been proponents of strictly limited government.
• 🎭 The GOP often focuses on cultural wars, utilizing government to exert control over personal behavior, and emphasizing military and policing powers.
• 📜 This approach shows a century-long continuity, from Prohibition to contemporary state abortion laws and attempts to control elections.

Trump's "Big Government" Initiatives

• 🇺🇸 Donald Trump's initiatives exemplify this use of big government, including efforts to control elections and a significant buildup of immigration and customs enforcement.
• 🌍 The impact of these large-scale government crackdowns extends beyond unauthorized immigrants, affecting virtually all Americans due to their integration into society.
• 🚩 This demonstrates a willingness by conservatives and Republicans to employ the "whip hand of big government" to advance their values, particularly in their cultural wars and expressions of xenophobia.