State religion
Partisanship, more than any other factor, appears to be the divider in the controversy surrounding Garcia Moreno's legacy. Liberal opposition did and does continue to portray him as a tyrant by emphasizing the more authoritarian policies of his regime. Under Garcia Moreno's presidency, his persuasion alone directed government policies, an easily undermined structure for a stable government, and the legislature loved him so much that it often was reduced to a rubber stamping body. Even when confronted with evidence of the good which was done under his presidency, most opponents then and now still would likely argue that the end does not justify the means. In more modern times, particularly among advocates for secular, religiously pluralistic republics, another complaint would be voiced as well, that being the establishment of a State religion, instead championing the individual's right to religious liberty.