I remember Nelson Rockefeller. I knew/know MANY "Rockefeller Republicans" [View All]

When you grow up in Southern New England in the 50s and 60s, you become very familiar with this breed of republican. Chris Shays and Bill Weld sorta fit the profile, even as (relatively) young as they are. Lincoln Chaffee certainly does, as did his father. Scott Brown seems to be one, too, although I confess to knowing little about him, not having lived in New England for about 40 years.

They tried to assimilate as their party moved right. Some did. Some didn't. They weren't bad people. Most I knew/know were/are very nice, in fact. We also had a fair amount of common ground and probably still do.

The "Rockefeller Republican" label is more or less quaint. But the general political compass that guides them remains alive and well.