Liberals think it's a contradiction in terms. The press thinks it's meaningless spin.
Many conservatives think it's way too defensive.
In fact, these criticisms are unfair. Compassionate conservatism is emerging as a doctrine with a specific meaning, which deserves to be treated seriously. And it is reflected in the tax bill emerging from the Republican-controlled Congress. The House tax bill is full of deductions and credits for this or that form of officially approved behavior, primarily saving and investment. This is a serious philosophy of government.