"It is said that a neo-conservative is a liberal who has been mugged by reality"

The quote by Stockwell Day suggests that a neo-conservative is somebody who has actually experienced a severe reality and has needed to adjust their views appropriately. It indicates that a neo-conservative is someone who was once a liberal, however has needed to change their views due to the realities of life. This could indicate that a neo-conservative has needed to deal with a tight spot or has needed to confront a harsh fact that has actually changed their outlook on life. It might also indicate that a neo-conservative has needed to accept a various set of worths or beliefs in order to survive worldwide. In any case, the quote implies that a neo-conservative is someone who has actually needed to adjust their views in order to cope with the realities of life.