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Is the answer based on the social questions of the day? Is it abortion? Affirmative action? Gay marriage? Or is the answer more about American nationalism? Is it always conservative to be hawkish? Or pro-capitalist? What about the original definition of "conservative" as one who looks backward and prefers the status quo to change? Or the old American version of limited government, limited spending, no foreign entanglements and individual responsibility? Most importantly, do any of those possible definitions describe the Grand Old Party as we know it?

Occasionally, I'll mention that I have a position that does not dovetail nicely with the more "Christian-Right" elements that reside within our big tent, and while I love and respect them, I don't always agree with them. I am immediately and vociferously labeled a "RINO" in a way that allows you to almost see the venom dripping from the word as you read it.

So I've been ruminating over the last few months as to whether or not I am actually a RINO. But as I read the above quoted paragraph, I realize that my original instincts were right - I am not a RINO.

When was a litmus test attached to calling oneself a Republican, anyway? Who defined this test? And why are there only 2 or 3 "key" issues that determine it's outcome?

I believe in small government and low taxes. I believe in the right to bear arms. I believe in state's rights. I believe Roe is a hideous example of rule by judicial fiat, and that the question should be thrown back to the individual states legislatures - where elected officials will create laws based on the will of the people that they govern. I wanted Michael Luttig nominated for the Supreme Court, and I wanted to shove him right down the throats of our liberal friends. I believe that Kennedy, Pelosi, Reed and other vocal Democrats are actually traitorous and should be prosecuted.

But I confess that I hold views that are not strictly planks in the Republican platform. So my question is this: does one have to agree with every position the party officially takes? And how many are you allowed to disagree with before you become a RINO?

For your answer you need to start by looking at the fact that there are no "DINOS". With that in mind one can separate the wheat from the chaff.

When was a litmus test attached to calling oneself a Republican, anyway? Who defined this test? And why are there only 2 or 3 "key" issues that determine it's outcome?

Perhpas the Whigs were wondering the same thing in 1854...right before hopeless divisions destroyed that party forever. I am hoping for such a division in the Republican Party -- it may be just what the doctor ordered.