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The Evolution of Conservatism

  • Writer: LeRoy Cossette
    LeRoy Cossette
  • Sep 5, 2025
  • 4 min read

Updated: Sep 7, 2025



The Rise of Trump and the America First Movement


Elected Republican officials throughout Haywood County would be wise to recognize that Donald Trump’s election in 2016 marked a turning point in American politics. His campaign resonated with Americans who felt neglected by traditional politics and globalization.


Conservative Republican Landen Stenson for Waynesville Councilman
Conservative Republican Landen Stenson for Waynesville Councilman

This movement extends beyond just Trump. It reflected widespread frustrations with the political establishment, particularly on issues like spending, transparency, immigration, and trade. Americans felt the desire for a different kind of conservatism focused on citizens' everyday needs. This desire for a different type of conservatism extends throughout Haywood County.


A Different Type of Conservatism


The rise of the Trump MAGA conservative movement differs from traditional conservatism. It aims to protect America’s cultural and moral identity, heavily influenced by a Judeo-Christian outlook. This form of conservatism focuses on strengthening community bonds, family values, and shared beliefs. As a strong Christian conservative community, Haywood County is ready for leadership that will prioritize our Judeo-Christian values and traditions.


While advocating for religious freedom, this movement highlights the importance of a moral compass in society. The Declaration of Independence’s statement that rights originate from a higher power supports the idea that citizens must respect and uphold these values in their daily lives.


Community and Parental Concerns


Conservative Republican Cory Nuckolls for Clyde Alderman
Conservative Republican Cory Nuckolls for Clyde Alderman

At the core of this national conservative movement is a sincere concern for families and communities. Many parents worry about influences like drugs and controversial ideologies in schools. This movement aims to protect children from narratives that challenge traditional values.


This community focus resonates with many Haywood County residents who long for a return to a more stable society. The national conservative movement supports policies that strengthen family ties, expand educational choice, and give local communities control over school curricula. By prioritizing families, this movement seeks to create healthier environments for the next generation.


A Toughness for the Current Moment


Conservative Republican Adam Hatton for Canton Alderman
Conservative Republican Adam Hatton for Canton Alderman

A key trait of this MAGA conservative movement is its resilience. Its leaders recognize that Christian conservative principles face various threats. They recognize the urgency to act quickly, as the Asheville radical socialists continue their efforts to push Haywood County left, aiming to transform Haywood County and its foundational principles.


Haywood County has its own leaders dedicated to vigorously defending their values, refusing to let public opinion influence their actions. This bravery enables them to face challenges directly and present their agenda as a strong alternative to the increasingly liberal ideals in Haywood County communities. We see such Haywood County leadership in figures like Sherry Lewis, Janet Presson, Rick Stello, Terry Ramey, Tiffany Collins, Barry Pepper, Susan Kavanaugh, Connie Cronk, Malcom and Carol Spinks, Kendal Burnett, among many others who are committed Christian Conservatives.


The Philosophical Agenda and Its Urgency


Conservative Republican Julia Freeman for Waynesville City Council
Conservative Republican Julia Freeman for Waynesville City Council

The Christian conservative movement recognizes how vital its mission is in today’s political scene. More people are beginning to realize that core American principles are at risk. The movement aims to rally support around a Christian conservative agenda focused on defending these essential values. We, the Christian conservatives of Haywood County, ask for no less of our county and municipal elected officials.


Historically, many radical socialist Democrats have expressed dissatisfaction with the Constitution and the principle of checks and balances. Such sentiment has led to calls for changes to these foundational frameworks. In contrast, our Christian conservative movement is dedicated to reaffirming these principles to ensure they continue to guide American governance. This knowledge should strengthen the resolve of like-minded residents of Haywood County when confronted by the Asheville radical socialist and their organized anti-American, anti-Christian rallies being repeatedly held in Waynesville.


Looking to the Future


Conservative Republican John Hinton for Maggie Valley Alderman
Conservative Republican John Hinton for Maggie Valley Alderman

The future offers significant opportunities for the Christian conservative movement in Haywood County. It is well-positioned to reshape our politics and redefine what it means to be a Christian conservative today. By emphasizing the preservation of Christian Conservative values and supporting the well-being of its citizens, this movement can reach a broader audience. This should be the centerpiece of each of our conservative Republican candidates running for election in Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, and Clyde.


Our conservative Republican candidates must recognize that challenges exist. Sustaining the momentum and unity will require each of them to demonstrate strong, determined leadership by actively engaging with Haywood County communities, listening to their concerns, and promoting a broad vision that inspires hope among our residents.


A Reflection on American Conservatism


The past decade has reshaped American conservatism with the rise of Donald Trump and the

national conservative movement. This new form of conservatism seeks to defend core American values while promoting the welfare of families and communities. Haywood County leadership must recognize and embrace this new conservatism and commit to supporting and implementing policies that reflect its principles in the face of upcoming challenges.


In these uncertain times, the need to defend the values that define America has never been more critical. The future of conservatism relies on its ability to engage, adapt, and inspire a new generation of Americans committed to building a strong, united country, state, and county. It is for this straightforward reason that the citizens of Haywood County must set aside their apathy toward politics and become involved.



Visit americaninsanity.org to learn how to become "The Informed Citizen" and gain valuable insights into the issues facing our communities.

 
 
 

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Guest
Sep 05, 2025

There are many other great, conservative, Christian leaders in Haywood County who you choose to slander and now ignore. In my opinion, your actions and words are not those of a Christian. If those in your group are of the same mindset, calling yourself Christians is hypocritical. Pettiness and ugly words have no room in the Republican Party! Perhaps you join the Democrats or proclaim yourselves as Unaffiliated.

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Guest
Sep 07, 2025
Replying to

Attacking the HCGOP is petty, ugly and hypocritical!

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