I was taught its only in relation to spending. You can be a conservative democrat, if you believe in traditional democratic values but also believe we should spend money conservatively A liberal believes we should spend money liberally to achieve those results. It's like two spectrums overlayed. A graph of political identity.

Sure especially these days where everything is extremism in American politics it doesnt seem that way. Everything is right wing or left wing.

I remember when it was rude to talk about politics or religion. Everyone was allowed to believe what they want and still be friends with each other. Crazy.

Not taking a stance, just saying what i was taught at least. Times have changed since i was educated.