The problem with direct confrontation is that conservatives are not particularly good at it. A recent analysis in The Washington Post by two obviously liberal social scientists found that liberal ideological and interest lobbies were more effective than conservative ones. Given the ideological perspective, it was rather well balanced and convincing. Yet they were blind to the one great influence that makes the biggest difference in success. The liberals have the media constantly reinforcing their point of view, and this greatly influences legislators.
Conservatives have some media but with comparatively less effect.
It is pretty easy to get comfortable in Washington. The pay is good and the psychic rewards even better. There is no question that Mr. Bush is the favorite. As author of a book over two decades ago proposing a credit that would allow taxpayers to choose a private charity from taxes due rather than having a government agency spend it directly, your servant felt guilty he was supporting Mr. Forbes when Mr. Bush made a similar proposal recently. Maybe, it did make no difference.