What the Left Gets Wrong About Republicans

Not all Republicans are extremists, and there is a spectrum based on how conservatives treat others.

If you’re a Republican, chances are you’ve been called “far-right” or even an “extremist” by someone on the left. Maybe it was in a debate, an argument on X, or even in a news article where some journalist lumped in all Republicans with Nazis. It’s frustrating because it’s not true—but there’s also a reason these accusations happen. The right isn’t a monolith, and the spectrum of belief within it is broader than most people realize. There is nuance in how one fits within the spectrum of those who identify as Republicans. What separates a conservative from the far-right? And where do extremists fit into the picture?

The Traditional Republican: Your Dad’s GOP

The vast majority of people who identify as Republicans aren’t political junkies. They’re your average voter who likes the idea of low taxes, a strong economy, and a government that mostly leaves them alone. Maybe they were raised Republican; perhaps they think Democrats spend too much time on woke activism, but either way, they’re not looking for radical change. They want:

• Good schools

• A stable economy

• Government to step in when necessary, but otherwise stay out of their lives

• A strong military, but not endless wars

• A balance between personal freedom and law and order

• Support free speech and 2nd Amendment rights

This is the party of Reagan, Bush, and even figures like Mitt Romney. These voters may not always like Trump, but they voted for him overwhelmingly because they don’t love many of the left’s more extreme social agendas. Boys playing in girls’ sports, pronoun enforcement, and other progressive ideas are seen by them as a step too far.

The Conservative Right: Same Principles, More Intensity

Conservatives share the same general beliefs as traditional Republicans but are more passionate about them. They don’t just want lower taxes; they want severe cuts to government spending. They’re not just skeptical of the media; they see it as an active threat. They view issues like religious freedom, gun rights, and free speech as non-negotiables. This group is where you’ll find: