Religious Conservatives hold veto over GOP process

This article (Religious conservatives hold on in Iowa - Boston.com) describes (accurately, I'd say) the influence that Religious Conservatives have over the GOP nomination process--particularly in Iowa.

"Drake University political science professor Dennis Goldford said religious conservatives may serve more to block candidates who rile the base than elevate candidates they like.

'I don't think they are kingmakers,' said Goldford. But, he said, 'Any nominee is going to have to satisfy a majority of them that he is right on their issues.'

At this point, all three of the top-tier candidates are making overtures to religious conservatives, and there is no sign of such rejection, he said.

'Religious conservatives and social conservatives in the Republican Party are like the driver's education instructor,' said Goldford. 'He has a brake, but he doesn't have a steering wheel or an accelerator. They can pretty well say who is not going to be the nominee.'"