But back to Renna, I think it’s important to ask the right questions. Just saying that somebody is a conservative based on some nebulous definition of conservatism doesn’t make any sense, does it? Many may prefer this approach as it leaves them in their comfort zone.

William Buckley was a major force in covering for the established bureaucratic, even despotic mess we have in government today. He was a big part of the problem, and I don’t think he’s worthy of any praise of any pro-Constitutional American — a dying breed — I guess it’s become unpopular to stand on principles. It’s too bad, but it is the right thing to do.

I know most on this board have zero problem with honoring and sustaining the law of the land — and the supreme law is our beloved Constitution — but applying that principle to our thoughts and action is another thing. That’s where you separate the true patriot from the sunshine patriot — as Thomas Paine I think said.

In his younger years, I agree. But not in the last 2 decades.

I’m not disagreeing that he is an “intellectual.” So what? So he’s smart. So he’s written 50 books.

My point was that he was not and is not a promoter of Constitutional government and certainly did NOTHING to expose the real problems in government.

I do not agree that bringing together a bunch of conservatives is a good thing IF they are not focused on the real problems. Buckley hit on the symtoms, not the root causes. He was a pretender. I know this is hard to swallow if you’ve been tricked.

And I know it’s largely a losing battle to point these things out to die hard Republicans who have swallowed whole hook, line, and sinker the propaganda that Republicans (at the national level) have a different agenda than their Democratic allies.

Hit the books - again. You obviously missed much of the substance of your education. William Buckley was one of few intellectuals to come along in our lifetime. His insightful abilities were outstanding and so far above the average individual that it was almost impossible to follow his thoughts and words. Were his opinions controversial - of course. However, many of them were criticized because they were actually the painful. minimally diplomatic truth about issues and the truth is so often hard to admit and face.

He had a lasting positive impact on our society and provided the inspiration for conservatives to come together and demonstrate a strength in numbers. We must forever remain loyal to our convictions and protect our freedoms and the greatness of America.

The MSM has to give the impression (has to foist lies on the American public) that there are two sides in the political debate. Thus, Democrats and Republicans. And while there may be differences in local races, there is essentially ZERO difference at the national or federal level. They are Republicrats.

William Buckley was as helpful to the cause of true conservatism as the Warren Commission was to an honest investigation of the JFK assassination.

Anybody who says otherwise is blinded by the craftiness of the MSM, and has lost sight of the just and critically needed cause of “conserving” the principles of the Constitution and the philosophies of the Founding Fathers.

Condolences to the man and his family, but he was no friend to Liberty or our Constitution. If this is a surprise to you, then perhaps you’re listening to too much NPR or talk radio or reading any mainstream newspaper. And if you disagree, then search for evidence to the contrary.

Some of us don’t write well. You do. Stand up and be counted. Contribute. Don’t give in. “That which does not destroy us, will make us stronger” (paraphrase) - P

I do, however, offer his family and friends my heartfelt condolences in this our time of loss.