strange. it is usually the conservative movement that aligns with authoritarianism. conservatism favors those already with power, the rich and the patriarchy, and is willing to use the state to keep that power. conservatives are more pro police, pro prison and pro military force. Conservatives try to restrict who can vote. Conservatives try to restrict the rights of workers. conservatives are trying to regulate morality: abortion, drugs, sex. While liberalism acknowledges that there is not a level playing field, and tries to expand opportunities for the average person, the disadvantaged and downtrodden, seeking a more egalitarian society that works for everyone. Liberals celebrate non-conformity.
conservatives talk a lot about keeping the govt out of things... personal freedom, etc.
Unless it's about issues they disagree with - at which point they're ready to kick down doors for a pot plant, stem cells, abortion on raped 10 year olds, or two men playing grabass (although they're alright with lesbians, oddly).
It's the lack of consistency that I find annoying - either live in a nanny state, or don't. IMO, they're just as bad as dems when it comes to wanting the govt to control personal aspects of our lives - just on different issues. They scream states' rights, while demanding FEMA camps for exporting 7% of the population. They scream "less spending!" while demanding a 1900-mile wall and massive military growth, since today's military size is obviously inadequate.