It is not too much of a stretch to understand the motivation of “fiscal sanity,” because curbing government spending, now even on corrections, has always been a conservative value, as has holding...

It is not too much of a stretch to understand the motivation of “fiscal sanity,” because curbing government spending, now even on corrections, has always been a conservative value, as has holding government agencies to account for their performance and efficiency. With regard to both fiscal and programmatic health, prison systems nationwide have been beleaguered and falling behind. What makes this group’s outlook surprising from a political perspective is the note of acknowledgment of the social burden on reentering prisoners and an uncharacteristic tone of compassion. Says Gingrich, “They need the help of a community that will rally around them and provide the counseling, encouragement, and love that truly lead to changed behavior.”3