As a senator, Rick Santorum was known as a champion of the unborn, traditionally defined marriage, and other causes close to the hearts of cultural conservatives. Now he writes "The Weekly Threat Roundup" for the Ethics and Public Policy Center, focusing on threats foreign rather than domestic, and has broadened his audience by giving speeches and contemplating becoming a movie producer.
Michael Brendan Dougherty in The American Conservative details what Santorum has been up to these days. He thinks Santorum is preaching paranoia. That analysis is not surprising coming from the war-weary magazine founded by Pat Buchanan.
I don't see a problem per se with Santorum focusing his attention on issues of foreign policy. We each have our own vocation; not all are meant to make abortion or any one issues their primary concern.
Nevertheless, I am alarmed by aspects of his new cause.
First, I have noticed a trend in conservative thought since the jingoistic neo-conservative ideologies took center state in aftermath of 9/11: the ascension of war policy to the throne of conservative issues. Indeed, being strong on national defense (on which we spend more than the rest of the world combined) is viewed by many conservatives as more important than a leader's stance on any other issue. We may have a choice between two pro-choice hawks in 2008! Santorum may not wish to be a part of this trend, but he'll have to tread carefully to avoid his own contribution to the reduction of conservatism into militarism.
Second,while undoubtedly a cultural conservative, Santorum does not seem to fear the growth and concentration of government power when it's used to fight foreign foes (or make metaphysical pronouncements on the nature of marriage). I don't doubt that we have real foes and real threats, both foreign and domestic, but I don't doubt either that we are a real threat to ourselves if we wield power imprudently in responding to these dangers. I hope Santorum preaches a prudent foreign policy, but given the magnitude of his mission, that doesn't seem likely.
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