The abiding touchstone for conservative voters has been to elect the candidate who better embodies conservative beliefs and values. Because the term “conservative” has varied meanings, it would not be appropriate to call a belief “conservative” because a few self-described conservatives believe it. So, for example, the QAnon conspiracy theory does not represent conservative values simply because some people who call themselves conservative subscribe to it. The more conservative approach to determine meaning is original intent, in which we look to the definition of the word. “Conservative” means: 1) averse to change; 2) holding traditional values; 3) restrained and conventional in style and manner; 4) marked by moderation or caution; 5) tending to conserve and preserve resources. Within this general framework, a number of values stand out as fundamentally conservative.
Family Values. Is the person a faithful husband or wife, and a dutiful parent?
Respect for the truth. Is the person honest, and forthcoming? Do they freely admit their mistakes? Do they keep their promises? Are they grounded in reality?
Respect for the rule of law. Conservatives believe that an ordered society is necessary for prosperity. So, does the candidate respect the law?
Honor the military. While liberals express respect for members of the military too, honoring our warriors has been a hallmark of conservative candidates for decades. Does the candidate show respect for our fighting men and women, and their sacrifices?
Religious values and character. While being religious is not confined to conservatives, this is a point on which conservatives have distinguished themselves for the past thirty years. Conservatives attend church regularly, and are guided by faith in the conduct of their lives. Have the candidate’s actions throughout his or her life demonstrated a commitment to the tenets of an established religion, or, at a minimum, to established principles of ethical conduct?
Constitutional democrats. Conservatives believe in the institutions of democracy. They believe in congressional power over executive power, and the right of the people to control both the legislative branch and the executive branch by their votes. They believe in checks and balances. They reject all forms of authoritarianism as a threat to individual liberty.
Fiscally responsible. Conservatives avoid debt and, in the context of government, deficits. Conservatives pay their bills.
Conservatives cherish life. Conservatives believe that life is to be protected. For Catholic conservatives, at least, valuing life involves more than abortion. It involves the entire Church doctrine of valuing life, including questioning the justification of war, pressing for economic justice and equality, and opposing the death penalty.
Conservation. Conservatives believe that we are stewards of the earth God has given us, and that it is our sacred responsibility to protect the earth and its creatures.
| Principle | Trump | Biden |
| Family values | ||
| Respect for truth | ||
| Respect for the rule of law | ||
| Honor the military | ||
| Religious values and character | ||
| Respect for the institutions of democracy | ||
| Fiscal responsibility | ||
| Respects life | ||
| Stewardship of natural resources |
