There has been considerable discussion recently regarding why one Republican candidate is doing well in one state or another.  Unlike the Democrat party, Republicans are made up of a very diverse group of “conservatives”.  Some of these groups can be stereotyped to certain demographics. 

Fiscal conservatives favor reduced taxes and pro-growth economic programs such as decreased regulations and free trade.  Typically this group likes smaller government to reduce spending as a way to lower taxes.  However, many would not mind universal health care since that would remove the burden of some benefit programs from corporations.  Historically, fiscal conservatives are associated with “blue-blood, country club” Republicans of the North East.  However, fiscal conservatives can be found from California down to Houston and anywhere else big business booms.

Social conservatives are linked with family values and the morality issues.  Right to life is the cornerstone for this group but many other values also are important.  Social conservatives are rooted in the South but Christian based values can found across the US.

Security conservatives support strong Department of Defense and a pro USA foreign policy.  Although many are concentrated around military towns this bedrock American freedom can be found anywhere.

Western conservatives get their values from their heritage.  These conservatives have a libertarian streak that boils down to: I have my guns, so leave me, my property and my money alone.

In order to win in November, the Republican candidate needs the support of all these groups.  That is the difficulty with the current field is that no one candidate has everybody.  Romney is the favorite of the fiscal conservatives but social and security conservatives aren’t sold yet.  Huckabee is cornering the social conservatives but has drawn the ire of fiscal and security conservatives. McCain and Giuliani are fighting for the Security vote.  McCain’s opposition to tax cuts and lack of respect for social issues is hurting him.  Giuliani’s problems are being liberal on social issues and anti-gun laws.  Thompson is probably the only one that can tie everything together but has never been a flag bearer for any group so can’t break free into the top.