RINO is an acronym for "Republican In Name Only," and has its origins in American political discourse. It is used to describe politicians or members of the Republican Party who are considered insufficiently conservative or loyal to the party's core principles. The term is often employed by [conservative Republicans](https://doctorparadox.net/mental-self-defense/the-conservative-mind/) to criticize those they perceive as being too moderate or liberal. The history of the term can be traced back to the 20th century, but it gained more prominence in the 1990s and 2000s. 1. **Early usage**: While the exact origin of the term RINO is unclear, it is believed to have emerged in the mid-to-late 20th century, possibly as a variation of the term "DINO" (Democrat In Name Only). The idea of criticizing politicians for not adhering to party ideals is not unique to the Republican Party, as similar language has been used by members of other political parties as well -- but in present day, the most common cultural usage is in the [right-wing](https://doctorparadox.net/tag/right-wing/). 2. **1990s**: The term RINO gained more prominence during the 1990s, in part due to the rise of the conservative movement within the Republican Party. This period saw the emergence of the "Republican Revolution," led by [[Newt Gingrich]], which sought to shift the party further to the right. Gingrich and his allies often used the term RINOs to criticize moderate Republicans who were not in line with their more conservative agenda. 3. **2000s and the Tea Party movement**: The term RINO became even more popular during the 2000s, particularly with the rise of the [[Tea Party]] movement in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The Tea Party, a conservative and [libertarian](https://doctorparadox.net/libertarian-narcissism-right-wing-ideology/)-leaning faction within the [Republican Party](https://doctorparadox.net/the-gop-is-3-cults-in-a-trenchcoat/), was critical of both Democrats and moderate Republicans. Members of the Tea Party frequently labeled moderate Republicans as RINOs, accusing them of betraying conservative principles. 4. **Present usage**: In recent years, the term RINO has continued to be used as a political tool by conservative Republicans. It is often employed to challenge the credentials and loyalty of moderate Republicans, particularly during primary elections. The term has also been applied to Republicans who criticize or oppose former President [[Donald Trump]], who has a strong following among many conservative voters. The term RINO emerged as a way to criticize moderate Republicans who are seen as insufficiently conservative or not adhering to the party's core principles. The term gained prominence during the 1990s and has continued to be a part of American political discourse, particularly within conservative circles.