This explanation is much better ...

.
... than any I could pen:

A true “small” government conservative would say, “There’s no percentage in taking money from people only to give it back to them after the federal government takes a cut in managing fees and adds tons of regulations to it. Let the people keep their own money at home and make the closest and most responsible level of government handle it as the community sees fit. Get the know-it-alls in DC out of the mix.” 

If you read the whole thing, it's much worse.

As far as I can see it, there are few actual 'small' government conservatives left in Washington, which is why the GOP is, as a long-term party, is dead.

pm