We have surmised that it was an attempt to distinguish himself from liberalism, which inherently is lacking compassion. When the issue is someone in need, conservatives look first to the family, then to faith-based and civic organizations in the community, then the local government, then the state and lastly to the federal government.
Liberals tend to take the reverse route.
U.S. Rep. Dick Armey has another take, supporting that concept but adding another element that is quite timely. The liberals are very emotive, and they're not at all bound by facts. They're very beguiling in wrapping that greed in the language of love. It seems so much more compassionate. But true compassion lies in telling the truth and being honest with people.