After the Republicans lose any election, the explanation is trotted out that the party’s social conservatism is responsible. This was less persuasive than ever after 2008, but still we heard it. And now consider: A pro-lifer has just won the governorship of New Jersey; for the first time since Roe, a friend reminds me, there’s a fully pro-life governor of Virginia (neither Allen or Gilmore fit that bill); a sweeping pro-life measure passed the House in the form of the Stupak amendment on a strong, bi-partisan vote; and opinion polls show an up-tick in pro-life sentiment. The Republican party had, and still has, plenty of problems, but its support for life isn’t one of them.