Extremism in the Defense of Liberty

A Wake Up Call for the Right

2009-03-03T13:55:00.004-07:00

As a conservative, I'm finding out more and more that I do not really believe in the Republican Party. Not as it once was, anyway.
I've started realizing that I am more Libertarian in my views, but if I want to continue to vote in Primaries, and be involved, I must stay under the big tent of the GOP, much as the Green Party must do with the Democrats.

I've never been an over the top republican. Even when I worked for the party. I believe in one fundamental right that the Constitution gives us: The government should stay out of my business and out of my wallet. These days though, it seems neither the democrats or republicans are holding true to this thinking.

I think I am a fairly intelligent person, with a good head on my shoulders. I'm not going to try to change your views on politics or religion, if you've already made up your mind. But I will say that there are a few things that are driving me mad at the moment. And keep in mind, this could be because of the recent CPAC weekend in DC, or just because its always bothered me & I'm finally speaking up.

Don't assume that I fall in line with Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter, just because there's an R behind my name on my voter registration. Last week Janeane Garofalo said that conservatives are "self-loathing" and compared female-fans of Limbaugh to Eva Braun, Adolph Hitler's girlfriend. But then Rush Limbaugh turned around and called liberals "deranged". Where do we draw the line? I'm definitely for the first amendment and our right to speak our minds, but when does it just become petty name calling? I feel like we've all retreated back to the first grade and on this playground of life we are picking on others to make ourselves feel better.

Which brings me to this point: How do we expect to energize the future generations of voters, when all we are doing is calling each other names and comparing everyone to Hitler all the time?
Barack Obama won because he gave the young people of this nation something to hope in. While I found it to be completely asinine, some -actually- MOST young people were drawn to this.
I don't think we should go around saying we are the party of rainbows and unicorns and gumdrops and kumbaya; but at the same time, where is our current rhetoric getting us? Can't we find a happy medium?

I'm not suggesting that we silence Coulter (although sometimes Ann could use a lesson in graciousness) or Limbaugh (who recently said if you don't agree with him, you agree with Barack Obama), but I am asking, when will others who are tired of the game rise up and be willing to come up with valid arguments, sans name calling and finger pointing, and do something worthwhile for our party and our country?

We can either think of how we become relevant as a campaign winning and policy making organization or we can just be the voice of opposition. If we continue featuring the Limbaugh's and the Coulters, without other points of view, we will never appeal to Independents, soft D's or even Republicans for that matter. Who will be the spokesman for our generation?

Two Americas

2009-02-03T16:41:00.002-07:00

So I think if we all try really hard, we can remember back to 2004 - Remember John Edwards "Two Americas" speech? One America was the hard working miners & workers in the saw mills & union dues paying folks. And the other, those evil, greedy, wealthy Americans. You know the types...so often the media portrays them as Republicans. (But if you really look closely, the ambulance chaser, Edwards, was one of those too)

Well, now we've had THREE appointees to the Obama administration come under fire for their tax issues. Mostly the fact that they never paid their taxes and penalties, not until it was absolutely necessary. After all, who was going to know? No one. Not until the vetting process began for their Senate confirmation.

Not to mention the fact that Charlie Rangel (D-NY) also is under the microscope for his lack of "rendering to Caesar what is Caesars" - Bill Richards is under investigation for corruption charges. Daschle had a personal car & driver that he didn't claim on taxes. Gaithner didn't pay his self-employment taxes. Nancy Killefer didn't pay into unemployment for her housekeeper.

It seems to me that these Democrats who are "for the people" have lost touch with the people.
The last time I checked, I have to pay my taxes. I don't have a chauffeur. I don't have a housekeeper. Or a nanny.

I know that on April 15th my taxes better be in order.
I know how to correctly use Turbo Tax, and I'm not being considered for a position within the Administration, not even as a Schedule C appointee.

So why is it that these so called "leaders" are allowed to live by a different set of rules? Fact of the matter is, President Obama is saying that he can't allow it to look as if there is a different set of rules for the American people, but as far as I'm concerned, with the confirmation of Timothy Gaithner, it already does.

Fight On, Americans

2008-11-07T13:02:00.002-07:00

On Tuesday, November 4th, 2008 an historical thing happened in our great nation.
The American people have spoken, and it is clear that we will have our nation's first ever "African-American" president.

Anyone who knows me, knows that President-Elect Barack Obama was no where near close to my ideal candidate. It is not because he is black, and it is not because I fear change.
It is because I fear the type of change that this man wants to bring to our country.

In the current economic times, we need someone who believes in hard work, prosperity and job creation. Instead, we see a man before us who believes in redistribution of wealth, bankrupting the coal industry, and who has made it quite clear that he wants to bring socialism to our Great Nation.

How can we live in a country that relies heavily on the coal industry, and have many states within our union that has a main source of economic strength from the coal industry, yet have a President-Elect who believes it is within our nations best interest to put these mines out of business?

How can we live day to day, striving toward & working on achieving the "American Dream", yet we have a President-Elect who wants to take that away.
We teach our children to work hard, and one day they will become something they could only imagine in their wildest dreams. We teach our children it is better to work hard for something, rather than to steal it. We teach our children that anything is possible when we put our minds to it.

I ask then, why should I work hard when I now will be paying for someone else to raise their family? Why should I work hard when I will be paying for someone else's health care?
Why have I taught my children the value of working hard, when we have a man in the highest position in the land who is going to teach them that we punish those who work hard by redistributing their hard earned money?

Its very simple. There is nothing that can be done now about this election.
I am hoping we all can look back and say that we did our best, and tried our hardest and worked fervently for the cause that was greater than ourselves.

I ask that each of us pray for our country, and our newly elected leaders. Just as we would have done if John McCain were elected.
Pray that we do not see two new Supreme Court Justices seated during this Presidency.
Pray that we do not give up on the War on Terror, or on our soldiers in harms way.

As Americans we must continue to fight on. Hold your head up.
We may have lost the battle, but we WILL win the war.
Victory in 2010. Let's get rid of Harry Reid.

Onto 2012.

You Have to Wonder

2008-10-09T15:23:00.002-07:00

I have to wonder lately what my local politicians are thinking...and feeling.
My current congressman (I say current, because as of late I believe he will be former come November 5th) is on a liberal streak of voting. If the conservative base is against it, he votes for it.
The Farm Bill, that subsidizes farmers to NOT grow food, while food prices are on the rise, my congressman voted for it. Then, as an additional slap in the face, he voted to over-ride the President's veto.
The "energy" bill touted by Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi; you know the one...it allowed us to drill in places where there is no oil. Thus being the NON-Energy bill. Yup, my congressman from CD 3 voted for that too.
The $700 Billion bailout bill that everyone knew wouldn't help out the economy, he voted for that, too. Even after House democrats resorted to mudslinging and name calling like a bunch of children on the playground, he kept his "Yes" vote.
He has brought millions of dollars back home to Nevada - however, was it worth it? The special interest money, the earmarks that were unnecessary and unwanted...
My congressman dismisses the ideas and opinions of his constituents, and allows his campaign and office staff to do the same.
I have to wonder where his head is.
I have to wonder where his heart is.
I have come to the conclusion that Jon Porter no longer wants to serve his country, or serve the people that put him in office. He only wants to serve himself.

While I do NOT want to see Titus in office, I am beginning to wonder if the two are the same...

Debate Slip Ups...Caught on Camera

2008-10-03T10:10:00.001-07:00

Please see the McCain campaign's response to Joe Biden's debate performance last night.

"Joe Biden graduated from his trademark verbal gaffe to outright lie in tonight's debate. Each time Senator Biden was on his heels, he looked directly into the camera and lied -- more than a dozen times by our count. He lied about John McCain's record, his own record, and Barack Obama's dangerous policies. Governor Palin showed the American people tonight why a McCain-Palin Administration will bring real reform, leadership, and straight talk to Washington." --Tucker Bounds, spokesmanMcCain-Palin 2008

JOE BIDEN'S 14 LIES TONIGHT

1. TAX VOTE: Biden said McCain voted "the exact same way" as Obama to increase taxes on Americans earning just $42,000, but McCain DID NOTVOTE THAT WAY.

2. AHMEDINIJAD MEETING: Joe Biden lied when he said that Barack Obama never said that he would sit down unconditionally with Mahmoud Ahmedinijad of Iran. Barack Obama did say specifically, and Joe Biden attacked him for it.

3. OFFSHORE OIL DRILLING: Biden said, "Drill we must." But Biden has opposed offshore drilling and even compared offshore drilling to"raping" the Outer Continental Shelf."

4. TROOP FUNDING: Joe Biden lied when he indicated that John McCain and Barack Obama voted the same way against funding the troops in the field. John McCain opposed a bill that included a timeline, that the President of the United States had already said he would veto regardless of it's passage.

5. OPPOSING CLEAN COAL: Biden says he's always been for clean coal, but he just told a voter that he is against clean coal and any new coalplants in America and has a record of voting against clean coal and coal in the U.S. Senate.

6. ALERNATIVE ENERGY VOTES: According to FactCheck.org, Biden is exaggerating and overstating John McCain's record voting for alternative energy when he says he voted against it 23 times.

7. HEALTH INSURANCE: Biden falsely said McCain will raise taxes onpeople's health insurance coverage -- they get a tax credit to offsetany tax hike. Independent fact checkers have confirmed this attack isfalse

8. OIL TAXES: Biden falsely said Palin supported a windfall profits tax in Alaska -- she reformed the state tax and revenue system, it's not a windfall profits tax.

9. AFGHANISTAN / GEN. MCKIERNAN COMMENTS: Biden said that top military commander in Iraq said the principles of the surge could not be applied to Afghanistan, but the commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force Gen. David D. McKiernan said that there were principles of the surge strategy, including working with tribes, that could be applied in Afghanistan.

10. REGULATION: Biden falsely said McCain weakened regulation -- he actually called for more regulation on Fannie and Freddie.

11. IRAQ: Joe Biden lied when he said that John McCain was "deadwrong on Iraq", because Joe Biden shared the same vote to authorize the war and differed on the surge strategy where John McCain has been proven right.

12. TAX INCREASES: Biden said Americans earning less than $250,000 wouldn't see higher taxes, but the Obama-Biden tax plan would raise taxes on individuals making $200,000 or more.

13. BAILOUT: Biden said the economic rescue legislation matches the four principles that Obama laid out, but in reality it doesn't meet two of the four principles that Obama outlined on Sept. 19, which were that it include an emergency economic stimulus package, and that it be part of "a globally coordinated effort with our partners in the G-20."

14. REAGAN TAX RATES: Biden is wrong in saying that under Obama,Americans won't pay any more in taxes then they did under Reagan.

Its Not the Great Depression...Yet

2008-09-30T20:56:00.002-07:00

I have been watching a lot of the news lately. More-so than usual. Mostly because I want to see what "analysts" are saying about our current economic situations.
I find it interesting that everyone is predicting doom and gloom, when two short years ago we were the most prosperous nation on Earth.

We need to remember that we are Americans. We've had tough times before. If our great grandfathers & great-great grandfathers could make it out of the Great Depression, then why can't we make it out of a drop in the markets?

We haven't reached that time in our current day where we have hit the Great Depression. Yes, we are in grave danger of a depression. We are not out of the woods on that yet, however, keep your chin up, America.

A friend's mom sent this to me, and I think everyone should read it. And after you've read it, read it again. And then forward it to a friend, or eighty.
+++
"Through the 200 years of American history, this country has been constantly besieged by bad news. If the early settlers believed things were as bad as they sounded they would have given up the fight to settle the new world and sailed back to England, and the dream of freedom would have perished.

From that day to the present, the people of this nation have listened to the bad news for a while, then they turned their backs on that which was bad, placed their faith in God and faced toward that which was good.

Down through the years, through tragic civil war, two world-wide wards, a series of smaller conflicts, recession and the great depression of the 1930's, we have heard again and again the words of Citizen Tom Paine, "These are the times that try mens' souls." in every case the people rejected the bad news and overcame whatever obstacle was facing them at that time.

Once again, we are put to the test. Everything we hear is bad. we are smothered with a never-ending succession of newspaper, radio and television reports on Watergate, drug abuse, crime in the streets, decadent morals and lack of honest and competent leadership. If Citizen Tom Paine were alive today, he could well utter again his famous quotation.

It is impossible to lock your door against the invasion of the news media into every nook of your home and office. They dont make the news, they merely report it (obviously MSNBC wasnt around then ;o) -but I digress). Tell it as it is. We have the option of acceptance or rejection. We can bemoan what is happening in our world, wring our hands and cover our heads, or we can reject the bad and look about us to the good.

When I was a boy on a small farm in Grant County, news wasnt as quickly available as it is today and reached us mainly by word of mouth. A "drummer" would come by or one of our neighbors returned from a trip to Little Rock or Memphis and we saw the news through tehir eyes. Mostly it was about what was bad in the big cities or throughout the country.

After listening a while, my father would say, "That's enough bad news for one day. Let's go to work." America has heard enough bad news for a while. Now is the time to go to work. Turn your back on the bad news and look around you at what is good. You don't need to look very fa. Your family, your children, your friends and neighbors, they are good.

We live today in the greatest country the world has ever known, filled with opportunities which never existed before. The highest standards of living, more leisure time, better health services, better schools, more ojbs, finer homes and freedom to enjoy these wonders.

This is indeed the time to turn our backs on the bad news and face the future with thankfulness.

W.R. "Witt" Stephens
** Mr. Witt sent this memo out after "Black Friday, October 1987" his wisdom and good advice lives on.
http://www.encyclopediaofarkansas.net/encyclopedia/entry-detail.aspx?entryID=1773 for more information on Mr. Stephens life.

No Time for Partisan Politics

2008-09-29T16:41:00.003-07:00

Pelosi asked in a floor speech shortly before the vote. "It is a number that is staggering, but tells us only the costs of the Bush administration's failed economic policies — policies built on budgetary recklessness, on an anything goes mentality, with no regulation, no supervision and no discipline in the system." about the $700 Billion bail out.
At this time, we cannot afford petty name calling. I expect more from my leaders, I expect more from those running my country.
I am absolutely disgusted right now.
As far as I am concerned, the Clinton administration, greedy oil speculators, and unscrupulous Wall Street big wigs are at fault. The economy has taken a serious down turn in the last 2 years since the Democrats have taken over congress we have seen a rise in oil prices, a drop in housing values and I cannot believe the audacity of Nancy Pelosi & Rep Barney Frank to blame Republicans.
We can point the finger all we want, but that is not going to save our economy.
I suggest we all call, email or fax not only OUR congressmen, but also House leaders to let them know how unhappy we are as Americans and that we want PARTISAN POLITICS LEFT OUT OF THIS. I dont care where Barack Obama or John McCain stand on this. Something's gotta be done, and without the name calling.
www.house.gov (search for your Representative)

Stay Classy, Liberals...Wait, is That an Oxy Moron?

2008-09-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

So, in an attempt to be...er, funny? Some jackass made up a tshirt that says "[word i will NOT use] republican babies for Palin"
Google the last part of the phrase in quotes, if you must, to see what exactly i'm talking about. -Although if you know what I'm talking about, please don't. These A HOLES don't need anymore website hits.
Where is the media outrage over this? The only people talking about how disgusting this is are the conservative pundits. Shouldn't EVERY American be outraged by this? Are we taking steps backwards into years ago when it was socially acceptable to make fun of those who have handicaps?
I am in NO way a politically-correct, over-sensitive, tree-hugger. But, as a step mother of a child who is severely mentally handicapped, and, as a human being with a HEART, this enrages me to the point where I want to scream & throw things.
I was told recently that the Republican Party was all about "dirty, slanderous, baseless politics." And, that the Republican Party is also "shameful". Last time I checked, Conservatives aren't out touting our "all inclusive, hold hands & sing kumbaya" policies, but not including those who need a voice the most. The innocents who cannot speak for themselves.
I guess being "pro-choice" to a liberal only means that you have a choice if you choose to abort your child when the constraints of a handicap will not fit into your lifestyle.
Leave the poor child alone. Leave the family alone and stop picking on them for having a heart. If it was the "Obamassiah" & his loud-mouth wife who had made this decision, would people be running around calling their child that name??

Obama's Blueprint for America

2008-09-12T11:54:00.004-07:00

http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/ObamaBlueprintForChange.pdf

I am home sick. So, I decide I'm going to do some opposition research, like every good voting American should do.I know why I'm voting for John McCain, but do you? Or do you know why you're voting for Barack Obama? Don't give me this load of crap line about how you want "change" in America. What exactly does that mean? Tell me...Really. So, I encourage each of you to read this thing. Its LONG, and full of dribble about raising taxes (no, not just the top 5%, as he would like you to believe), and about how he was against the war in Iraq. Really? Cuz that means nothing as far as I am concerned since he wasn't in the Senate. (And remember folks, Constitutionally speaking, only CONGRESS has the power to declare war. The President may ask them to consider, but ultimately, it is their say).

So, here, in what I assume will be a very long post, I am going to dissect a few things for you, and tell you what the main-stream, drive-by, Barack Obama-loving Media will not.

On Page 5: "Obama introduced public financing legislation in the Illinois State Senate, and is the only 2008 Presidential candidate to have sponsored Russ Feingold's tough bill to reform the Presidential public financing system."What makes this so interesting is that, A) Its MCCAIN FEINGOLD Campaign Finance Reform. And B), Obama backed out of his promise to use public financing. Isn't he the one always saying politicians should keep their word? Then how about keeping this one? Or how about when he LIED on National Television to try to sway the American people. And you know what, he was in a church when he lied. That has to take a pair of brass balls.

Remember this from the Saddleback forum?:

Pastor Warren: Can you give me a good example where you went against party loyalty, and maybe even went against your own best interest for the good of America?

Obama: I'll give you an example that, in fact, I worked with John McCain on, and that was the issue of campaign ethics reform and finance reform. That wasn't probably in my interest or his.... But I think that we were able to get a bill passed that hasn't made Washington perfect, but at least has started moving things forward....

"But that one example of his great bi-partisan moment turns out to be as fleeting as it was disingenuous. In February of 2006, when Obama and McCain were serving in the Senate together, neither yet a presidential candidate, there was indeed a bipartisan effort to pass reform legislation. McCain initiated one of his "maverick" efforts to reach across the aisle in an attempt to reform lobbying. Obama pledged to McCain his willingness to rise above bipartisanship and work for the good of America — only to change his mind after one week and withdraw his cooperation. That "selfless-bipartisan" effort of Obama's ended in a scathing letter by McCain on February 6, 2006:

Dear Senator Obama:

I would like to apologize to you for assuming that your private assurances to me regarding your desire to cooperate in our efforts to negotiate bipartisan lobbying reform legislation were sincere. When you approached me and insisted that despite your leadership's preference to use the issue to gain a political advantage in the 2006 elections, you were personally committed to achieving a result that would reflect credit on the entire Senate and offer the country a better example of political leadership, I concluded your professed concern for the institution and the public interest was genuine and admirable. Thank you for disabusing me of such notions with your...decision to withdraw from our bipartisan discussion. I'm embarrassed to admit that after all these years in politics I failed to interpret your previous assurances as typical rhetorical gloss routinely used in politics to make self-interested partisan posturing appear more noble. Again, sorry for the confusion, but please be assured I won't make the same mistake again....

Sincerely, John McCain.

Obama's one example of bipartisan, self-sacrifice was a careless lie, told to the wrong audience about the wrong senator...one who was waiting in the wings and just might remember. It was another kind of audacity of hope — hoping that no one would notice." (excerpt taken from onenewsnow.com, article by Sandy Rios, Radio Personality out of Chicago)

Now onto the issue of Public Health care.In case Obama wasn't aware, we have free health clinics all over this country. Just here in Las Vegas there is another set to open by December of this year. Several well-to-do doctors are joining together to "give back" to the community. And they will receive donations to keep their doors open, government subsidies, and even tax breaks. This allows health care to stay open to a free market type approach. When you start screwing with the free-market society, you screw with the American public's wallet.Look at the cost of Lasik surgery over the last 10 years. When Lasik first became popular, people were spending thousands of dollars on ONE eye. But, the competition grew, because of the free-market, and so now the price is near $200 per eye. When government regulates what costs should be, there is no longer competition. Doctors can only charge what the government says they can charge, and with the bureaucracy of government-linked health insurance, you create a huge problem. People who have health insurance through places of employment will no longer have "excellent" health care, theirs will be mediocre in comparison. So, why should they work for it, when they can get a government subsidy? And so, we fall back to relying on the government and the taxes go up to pay for all of this. So much for your top 5%.

And of course, lets not forget the SCHIP Re authorization Act. Obama boasts that he voted for this so millions of American children can have health insurance. They had something similar when I was growing up, it was called "welfare".

But what Obama doesn't tell you in this little ditty about how awesome he is when it comes to taking care of the youth of America, is that he voted NO on authorizing SCHIP include unborn babies. So if you're pregnant & can't afford health care, SCHIP isn't going to look out for you. Do you know why? Because then Obama would have to admit that the "thing" in your stomach isn't tissue, or mass; its a real live human being. And then his pro-"choice" stance would be an oxy moron. Because how can you say a woman can abort her child, but also that you want to cover it with health insurance? Isn't that sending the message that its not a "zygote", a "fetus" or whatever other term you want to use, but a "baby"?

And how about that "Making Work Pay" tax credit? So, Obama says he plans to eliminate income tax for 10 million Americans. Want to know whats funny about that? Those are probably the 10 million Americans who live below the poverty line & receive their taxes back in a refund every year anyway (or they are exempt to begin with). And 10 million? In a country of over 350 million, is 10 million really a lot on a grand scale?

And now onto more "Free Government Money"...Obama wants to increase the FMLA time off, and "encourage" all 50 states to give more time off. So, he's proposing a $1.5 BILLION budget for this. Guess where that money is coming from...Yeah, its not just the "top 5%" - eventually, to pay for this, we all will have to pitch in.

I could go on & on & on. The fact of the matter is, there is another 20-something pages, and I just don't think anyone is going to read for that long.

But in reality, you should. You should know where your candidate stands on the issues. Why doesn't he want to privatize social security? (because he wants to tax us more to pay for other generations that have bankrupt it), Why doesn't he support voucher programs for schools, rather than throwing MORE money at an already broken system?(As a side note, America spends more money, per student, than any other 1st world country - and we have the lowest testing scores. Why is money always the answer to government bureaucrats?)

Go read the issues on BOTH candidates. Take the political test to see who you line up with.http://www.ontheissues.org/

Mexican Citizens on Death Row in the United States?

2008-07-16T09:46:00.003-07:00

So there is a Mexican Citizen on Death Row in Texas (go TX Death Penalty Laws!!) who was a part of a gang rape and murder of two teenagers 15 years ago.

The UN and World Court is now trying to stop the execution.
The Vienna Convention is such a load of crap.

I have a couple questions...
1) Why has it taken so long for his execution to actually take place? He is illegal. He committed a crime on US soil, against an American. Therefore, in the eyes of most Americans, he can be considered a terrorist, yes? Immediate death. They wouldn't have any problem executing an American anywhere else in the world if something like this happened.
2) Don't you think actually following through on the execution of a CONVICTED killer/rapist might send a message to others who think they can come across our borders and commit crimes that we just might not put up with the BS anymore?
It might at least send a message to the voting citizens of this country that our political leaders will no longer be soft on crime, or on illegal immigration.
3) Why do we give a rats ass about what Mexico wants? They are a separate country. They are not taking care of their own people. Why should the US have to be their doormat?
and finally...
4) Why is the US listening to the UN? No, seriously. Someone explain this to me. And then tell me the last time the UN did anything worth taking seriously.

Hate Couture?

2008-05-29T09:09:00.004-07:00

Are Republican pundits becoming akin to PETA groups?

PETA chastises those who wear fur or leather, because it does not line up with their personal beliefs. In a current commentary portion of FOX NEWS, Michelle Malkin went after America's Sweetheart, Rachel Ray for wearing a scarf that she says resembles something Yasser Arafat or another Jihadist would wear.

Oh, for Pete's Sake people!

I wear leather because I like it! I've been known to throw a scarf on, even when its not cold, because its fashionable.

Are we really taking ourselves this seriously, that fashion is now a tool for the jihad movement? We no longer can express ourselves by what we wear? Are Christians going to come after me because I am wearing RED heels today & say that I am obviously a street walker because of my choice in foot wear?

Wearing red doesn't make me a hooker, anymore than wearing black makes me "emo" or "goth". Wearing leather doesn't mean I don't love animals. Wearing a scarf doesn't make me a terrorist sympathizer.

I think everyone needs to settle down. I used to respect Michelle Malkin. Now, I wonder if she's been drinking the "Coulter Kool-Aid" lately.

A House Divided Will Not Stand

2008-02-17T17:51:00.002-07:00

To the Esteemed Members of our Republican Party;

Over the last few years I have had the chance to observe our party from the inside, and I have come to the conclusion that most everyone involved is in this, not for the good of our party, and not to see Republicans elected, but for their own egos, circumstances and to see only candidates they themselves deem worthy.

In the most recent case, John McCain has all but become our official nominee. His momentum is building and he is gaining strength throughout every state. Republicans that we all look up to like Karl Rove, Ken Mehlman, Tony Snow, George Allen, Tom Coburn, Ed Gillespie, & even George HW Bush are standing behind McCain and his bid for the White House. The White House has told their staff to be supportive of the McCain campaign and to stand in line with him. The Republican National Committee is prepairing to help defeat the Democrat nominee, whomever they might be, and yet, as Republicans, you all cannot agree to stand behind the nominee we already have.

Everyone is remenicent of an earlier candidate, or other Presidents. I would like to remind everyone that the VOTERS have spoken. Across this great nation of ours, John McCain's momentum was building from the very beginning of this year's caucus and primary season. It was not Mike Huckabee, Ron Paul, or Rudy Giuliani who continued to gain voters in every state; it was John McCain.

Mitt Romney even had the sense that Senator McCain's campaign is a force to be reckoned with and he stood down to allow his (McCain) Presidential Campaign to continue to build & strengthen. With the recent endorsement & urging to past supporters of Romney's to support McCain, as was done with Giuliani, I am wondering why I have to ask where you all stand? You see, I know where many of you stand. And, to be honest, that is quite disheartening.

As Republicans committed to defending the freedoms of our country, NO ONE should know your personal position on McCain's policies, other the fact that you believe McCain is the man for the job. Infighting, moaning about our nominee not being "a true conservative" does not build party morale, or strengthen relationships.I think it would be wise to remember that we do not win elections by simply telling people to go vote. There is leg work (and a lot of it) required. By the sweat of our brow we must work TOGETHER to see our nominee win the White House this November.

I am curious to know how standing down is helping our cause? When you tear down our candidate, you tear down not only our party & leadership, but you demoralize the VOTERS that made McCain our nominee. Are we truly FOR the PEOPLE? Or is this something that we say in public, but behind closed doors we feel that we are ENTITLED to something greater than what we have?

Who are we that we can speak for those that have done their civic duty & gone to their caucus locations & their polling places and cast their ballot for John McCain? I understand that many of you supported other candidates in the beginning of this election. But, this should not be done in public where volunteers and Republican FootSoldiers can be made aware. You see, we NEED them DESPERATELY this election cycle. We cannot afford to demoralize our candidate, because in the eyes of the volunteers, they need to know they are working for something they believe in; if their own party officials do not believe in the candidate, why should they work so hard & desperately for him, giving up their lives to do this awesome & mighty deed?

In my positions with the NRP & Right to Life, I depended heavily on my core volunteers. Had I ever said to a supporter that I didnt really care, I didnt support a candidate that I was working for, or anything along those lines, I would have surely lost 99% of those people to dispair & hopelessness. I would rather work with someone who is as passionate as I am, and sees the light at the end of the tunnel than a pessimist. I would rather work with someone who encourages me to stand behind our party & our ideals, even when differences arise, because we are the party of TRUE HOPE for our nation & our children.

I urge you not to fall into the trap of being apathetic. Stand up, be counted, make a difference, and for once, PLEASE, consider John McCain as our best option, the best man for the job & put your own thoughts and feelings aside.

"Wouldn't you rather have President McCain who you disagree with 20% of the time, rather than President Obama or President Clinton you disagree with 90% of the time?" ---Tony Snow Thank you for allowing me to air my grievances.

A True Gift at Christmas Time

2007-12-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is sort of an odd post for Christmas, it really has nothing to do with Christmas, but with life & love...
The other night we were watching "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & there is a line that says: "It came without ribbons! It came without tags! It came without packages boxes, or bags!" & the Narrator responds, "And he puzzled and puzzled, till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before! "Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store.Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more."
To all of my friends who don't have Christmas in your heart, perhaps it is because you do not have LOVE in your heart. No, I don't mean one special person, but I mean, you have a hard time loving anyone.
This year I have learned a lot about myself, who I am; not who others tell me I should be. I have learned a lot about life, and how I want to live; not about how others think I should live.
Truely, I think that often times we look too closely at others. "Keeping up with the Joneses" is a huge issue in our society. We want because someone else has it, not because it is what we value or think will make our lives more pleasant. I have a beautiful home, and nice things. I enjoy entertaining and having people over. This makes my life more rich. I don't care that I don't live in a HUGE house with all of the luxuries that one person can have. I dont care what the person next door has. That shouldn't be a priority to anyone if it won't further you and your relationships.
I used to look at life and think that I wanted something different than what I have now. When in all honesty, my life is greater for the people that have touched my life & for the things I have accomplished. Not for how much "stuff" I have aquired. Not for the life that magazines, tv and movies tell me I should have.
Dave has taught me what TRUE LOVE is. I never thought that I was capable of true love. I ran from anything that looked that way. I was afraid of it. No, it isn't always easy for us, and yes, we have our own issues to deal with. But we are human. No one person is perfect. So to think you will find the "PERFECT PERSON" is an oxy moron. But to find someone who truely loves you, appreciates you & respects you in every aspect is something wonderful. And it is possible for those of you who stop looking, and start relying on God & his ability to do something great.
To my "step-kids"- Each day you teach me something about myself & teach me to be patient and kind.I know that there are days that I fall short, but I love you all with every part of me, and cannot imagine my life being any differently than it is...but just remember, that doesn't mean you get a free pass on your chores! ha.
Zachary has taught me perhaps the most about myself though. While he & I cannot communicate in the traditional way, there are times when I swear he looks at me & knows that I love him. To have him wrap his hand around mine or to kiss me on the cheek makes up for all of the frustration & heart ache. I can ask God "Why him? Why does he have this cross to bear" or I can simply know that God has a plan, whatever it may be, even though I cannot see it or understand it, and know that I am learning to be patient and kind, full of understanding.
To my friends who have so much strength, who have endured life's struggles and heartaches, and still stand before me & beside me. You all have been my rock; you are the people I go to when I am upset or feel I cannot carry on. Thank you for your friendship and for helping me continue on.
You see, for so long I have been treated as a weak-minded individual who cannot make a decision on her own. Someone who is flawed and doesnt deserve all of the good things life has to offer.
I have found the truth. I am happy. No one can take that from me.
I hope that during the Holidays, and entering into the new year you all will find what I have found and learn to be content...and Happy.

What is Wrong with Young People??

2007-11-15T17:50:00.000-07:00

So today I heard on Fox News that a group of NYU students said that they would forfeit their right to vote for a million dollars, or even an ipod Touch.
This disgusts me.

But then later on, those students said that it was because they feel disconected from the candidates and the main stream parties.

What do you think?

Issues that Matter to Young Voters

2007-11-10T00:42:00.000-07:00

In a poll done around this time last year the top three issues (for voters ages 18-30) were as follows:

Economy
Education
Iraq

The far, far right would have you believe that most important issue is the LIFE issue. The far, far left would have you believe that the most important issue is the environment. Am I to believe that the great two party system is out of touch with young voters? Because I do more and more every day.

When are both sides going to understand that those issues, while valid & important, are not what decides the election? The far right & the far left basically cancel each other out. In the end, the ones who are considered moderate or independent are the votes that decide on election night who will lead us for years to come.

Granted, in 2004 George W. Bush won with phenomenal numbers, but that's mostly because the country wasn't comfortable with a post-9/11 world being lead by John Kerry. Yes, the far right turned out in amazing numbers, but lets not forget that the far left has turned out in record numbers for their own as well (ie: Bill Clinton).
Why do you think the Clinton's run as moderates? Because they know that is how they will win elections.
I am so sick & tired of hearing about how so & so is the "true" conservative candidate. Based solely on their "pro-life" voting record? Great, Good for them. I am ecstatic that those people are 100% pro-life. But that issue alone doesn't win you a seat. Or the White House.
It takes more than that. It takes real, honest understanding of issues. It takes a drive to see our nation thrive & be what it once was...the envy of other nations for being the nation that was wealthy and blessed beyond belief. It also takes the character to reach across the aisle from time to time & work with the other side, because frankly, that's how you get the job done.
Ronald Reagan was capable of it. But all of the sudden anyone who does that in this day and age (a mere 25 years later) is considered a traitor.

I would like to see the Republican Party return to its roots. Let's be concerned with keeping our nation safe, our economy strong (& taxes low), as well as protecting the Constitution.
(a little side note for all of you, when our forefathers built our great nation, judges weren't supposed to be deciding things like the abortion issue, they were supposed to allow the states & the people to decide. They were supposed to interpret the law. Both sides of the table need Roe v Wade to keep their base motivated & voting. What a sad world we live in)
POWER TO THE PEOPLE!

Remember Barry Goldwater, our great Senator from Arizona?
He was for lower taxes, protecting our country & upholding the constitution. He never believed abortion was a decision for the courts. It was a STATES issue. I want to see that kind of man lead our country. One who believes in LESS government & more freedom. What a better place this world would have been had he won in 1964.

Let's stop talking about the *Reagan Revolution. The Reagan Revolution brought us Jerry Falwell & other intolerant hypocrates who had no use for people with a different opinion and didn't show God's love or mercy, but only cared for what notorioty they would gain. Ministers who use their pulpits to spit words of hate should carefully reconsider why they accepted the call in the first place.

Its 2007, let's start talking about the REAL issues, the REAL voters, and how we can make a difference and win 2008.

*For those of you offended by my comments on the Reagan Revolution, it was meant in no disrespect. I once told my father at the age of 4 that I was going to name my son Ronald. I have nothing but love & respect for President Reagan, may he rest in peace, but I wholeheartedly believe it is time to stop focusing on who we had as a leader, at a time when the world was VERY, VERY different, and we step up & decide who we will have lead the new generation, in our new world where we have even greater threats than the Cold War ever was.

Remember, only 6 short years ago our Nation's Capitol & NYC were attacked in a vicious, horrible way. Shall we repeat that because we can't unite to elect a candidate that can beat Hillary & keep us safe, as a nation?

Wake up & smell the coffee America. Before it's your hometown that's attacked.

Division Instead of Unity

2007-10-11T18:27:00.000-07:00

After James Dobson's blatant excuse for "morals", stating he will sit out the 2008 election if Rudy Giuliani becomes the official nominee, I want to say that I am not going to church again until faith based leaders stop using their position to tell me how to vote. I am a Christian. I am also an intelligent human being.

I can make a decision for myself. I don't like when Sean Penn or some other liberal yahoo tells me how to vote or what to think, why do Republicans allow our Pastors to do the same? Is there a difference? Dont argue that its because Pastors are urging us to vote our morals; its the same for Tim Robbins. He wants to buy the world a coke & live in harmony. He is just "urging" you to vote his morals, too.

If you can't make your own decision on who you will vote for and you need the news media, Hollywood, a commercial or a pastor to tell you how to use your vote; you shouldn't be voting!!!

While I am definitely, without a doubt, 100% voting for McCain, Giuliani is not a bad second choice. At this point, anyone is better than a democrat. Lets just nominate someone that can BEAT the fearsome threesome (Hil, JE & Obama). And that doesn't mean Huckabee or Tancredo.

Damaging Morale

2007-09-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

I believe this goes especially for those senators & congressman running for President of the United States.

Sixth Anniversary of September 11th

2007-09-06T15:49:00.001-07:00

Where were you?
I believe that we should still be seeing these images. Some liberals think that we have memorialized this tragic day for long enough.
I disagree. I think this day should live on in our hearts and our minds forver, so that we NEVER FORGET.

Usama Bin Laden to Address American People on 6th Anniversary of September 11th

2007-09-06T15:34:00.001-07:00

The Associated Press & Fox News are reporting that there will be a video from Usama Bin Laden within the next 72 hours, directed at the American people.

The last time Bin Laden addressed the American public was just before the 2004 Presidential Election. Meanwhile, federal counterterrorism officials are analyzing a posting on an Islamic forum website that warns of "a special gift" to be given on the sixth anniversary of September 11th. The warning was posted Sept. 2 on a site frequented by radical groups and said in part that "there will be a special gift coming on the day of the blessed invasion of Manhattan."

Federal officials told FOX News they are trying to determine if it might be a specific warning or just part of broad chatter that has been heard during the last few months. Postings talking about "gifts" have been seen before in the days leading up to the anniversary of Sept. 11th.

---I for one am tired of living in fear. I am also tired of our country not being United as ONE. Remember, United we stand, Divided we fall. Perhaps a message from Bin Laden is what it will take for our country to stand together like we did after the attacks.

John McCain Sings

2007-09-05T22:55:00.001-07:00

John McCain says "Barbara Streisand has been trying to do my job for years, so now I'm trying to do hers"

Adopt-a-Jihaddist

2007-09-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

i found this on foxnews.com & i laughed. LOVE IT!

If you were to ask the media to rank a list of evil things, Guantanamo detention center would be in the top five — beating out Adolf Hitler, suicide bombers, Dick Cheney, disposable diapers and fat children. Gitmo is their moral red herring: As long as they keep bringing it up, they can avoid any discussion of real evil in the world.

The American left says they hate Gitmo because they think war is bad, but trying to win one is worse. And to win one, you need to keep the bad guys off the playing field. But the American left also loves Gitmo, because it's their political fig leaf, the thing they hide behind when they've got nothing else.

But I'd be willing to close Gitmo, if you agree on my alternative: Let's call this "Adopt-a-Jihadist."

For the price of one cup of coffee a day — and not fancy blended coffee drinks like frappuccinos, though they are delicious — you can help save a grown man, like Mahmood.

Poor Mahmood. Since he was in his teens, he has been waging jihad against the criminal Zionist enemy. Yet today, he calls a 20 by 35-foot cell home, where he cannot even carry out a simple beheading. He lives on just three square meals a day, but he has so much love to give — and not just to 72 virgins.

Please — please! — Sean Penn, Michael Moore... are you listening? Won't you throw open your mansions to Mahmood and the other members of his terror cell? Their energy is infectious — some might even say it's explosive.

So please, adopt a beautiful, bouncing jihadist like Mahmood today. They're just dying to meet you.

And that's my gut feeling.

Greg Gutfeld hosts "Red Eye with Greg Gutfeld" weekdays at 2 a.m. ET. Send your comments to: redeye@foxnews.com

The Republican Debates in a Nutshell

2007-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Giuliani hasnt gotten over the fact that he is NOT the mayor of NYC anymore.
Huckabee thinks he's ironic and funny. This is actually quite annoying.
Romney is pulling an Edwards and trying to win on looks and charm. Which TOTALLY makes him qualified for the White House...huh?
Brownback. I love Jesus, but stop "thumping the Bible" -get the issues straight, and not just the social ones. No one wants a know nothing in the White House. Learn ALL the issues.
Tancredo is a racist idiot. I have never met a Tancredo supporter that I liked. Mostly because I don't like people who lack common sense...
Ron Paul hates freedom. (Chris Wallace made me so happy when he asked Ron Paul if he thought we should "take our marching orders from Al Queda?" LOVE IT!)
Hunter...does anyone really know who you are? Does anyone really believe you will win? (although I did REALLY appreciate his statement on the successes in Iraq over the last year, and with the surge -thank you McCain- and his appreciation for our Troops)
(Although he wasnt at the debates, I'm going to throw him in the mix): Fred Thompson is waiting to announce but I think he is alienating more would-be supporters than he is gaining them. National Polls are all over the place. Never believe the polls. Remember, just after the actual polls closed on Election Day, 2004 the national news media reported that John Kerry won; based on Exit Polling.

If you're American, you love freedom and you believe in less government and lower taxes, VOTE MCCAIN.

Prince Charming? Or Skewed Cartoon Version of the Men We Already Know?

2007-08-31T23:59:00.000-07:00

I know that I typically use this blog as an outlet for political topics, current events and even faith sometimes. But tonight, something else is on my heart...and my mind. Out of need to express myself, but not being able to find my journal (as my entire being seems to be in a disheveled state whilst packing up mass amounts of "life") I am going to unload here on the internet.

I am 26 years old. I have had men who have "loved me," showered me with undying affection, etc, etc; yada yada yada, who have adored me and have been willing to give me the moon, should I ask for it.

Something is always keeping me from accepting this affection. Its not that these men are altogether terrible people (no one is perfect, I am included in this), they are not ogars (although it is rare that you will find that I am attracted to a man w/o physical imperfections or flaws); Brad Pitt has never been my type; or that they lack the ability to make me happy -most of the time.

I think my problem is more inward though. I am not sure how to make MYSELF happy. I don't know what makes me happy, so how can I expect someone else to know how? I have read the Five Love Languages, and to be honest, I couldn't tell you what my love language is.

Here is the "whoa is me" moment of the night (and then I promise to stop): I didn't receive affection in any form as a child, at least not often, so I think that as an adult I crave them ALL.

As an American female, we are told as girls that we should wait for our 'Prince Charming' -but then that dream is shattered when we realize that this cartoon version of what we are supposed to wait for is just that: a CARTOON. Its not real. Its insanity. If someone would have sat me down when I was 16, and still very much dreaming of my white knight on his gallant steed riding in to rescue me, and smacked me upside the head and helped that dream come to a screeching halt, would I be better off?

waiting for something that is in no way mirrored by reality wise? Is shattering some one's dreams of fairy tales a good idea? Is the reason that so many of my friends are still single because we have unrealistic expectations of men? Often times we whine, stating that men are the ones with the unrealistic expectations, looking for a mother more than a wife.

Remember in the old movies, men used to go to work and women stayed home with the children. Men went to work and provided. Women were the emotional, sometimes insensible creatures, while men provided the level headedness that is needed in day-to-day life. In the age of the metro sexual, effeminate, in-touch-with-his-emotions male, have we lost our sense of place in relationships? With single parent homes, two income households to keep up with the Joneses and such, are we pushing role reversal to a stressful wish list to build the perfect man, when perfection doesn't exist?

Do women think that Prince Charming is going to ride into our lives, sit down, shut up, go to work & bring home the bacon, be emotionally available at ALL times, help rear the children, be the head of the household, but also the tail? Are we being unrealistic in what we want? Are we being FAIR in what we're asking for? Do we even know what we're asking for?

As a woman who was recently asked, "Just how many boyfriends have you had?" -I have to look back and evaluate those relationships. Have I learned anything in the past 10 years? Have I really tried to better myself once a 'quirk' is pointed out? Am I afraid of commitment? (<---I threw this in for my friends who told me last Sunday that it is me, not the men)

Anyhow, I guess life isn't always easy to figure out. I could very well end up being my worst nightmare; 30 and SINGLE.

Pastor Barnett did a sermon once and he talked about learning to ride a horse before you actually bought the horse. It seems crude to relate marriage to riding a horse, but I will do it anyway. HA! I've taught myself to cook, I've read the books on being a Godly, supportive (and even prayerful) wife. Apparently there is something else I need to learn or do before I actually get married.

If I want to be married I can do that. If I want to be successful in marriage, and in love, I need to slow down and figure out what exactly He is trying to teach me.
All I know is that I am over Friday nights alone, and sitting by myself at church. I want someone to take care of...but also someone to take care of me.
Perhaps its selfish. But I am only human...

The Faith of McCain

2007-06-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

Posted on Sun, Jun. 10, 2007
2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONMcCain reaching out to Christian conservative baseBy Matt StearnsMcClatchy Newspapers
WASHINGTON - In his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination, Arizona Sen. John McCain is reaching out to conservative Christians, and many of them want to know how much McCain reaches out to God.
McCain has written movingly of how his faith helped him survive 5 { years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, but he says little about the current role of religion in his life.
"I think it's something between me and my creator," McCain said in an interview with McClatchy Newspapers. "It's primarily a private issue rather than a public one. ... When I'm asked about it, I'll be glad to discuss it. I just don't bring it up."
But in an era in which the Republican Party has become heavily dependent on conservative evangelical Christian voters conditioned to eight years of overt faith talk from many GOP politicians, including President Bush, some want McCain to deliver a more open discussion of his faith. Even Democrats, long regarded as the more secular party, this year have seen its leading presidential candidates openly discuss the importance of their faith.
McCain "seems to have a difficulty in discussing it in terms that people relate to," said Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, a leading conservative evangelical organization. "I think people want a sense of where someone stands in their relationship with the Lord. I think George Bush was able to do that in the way he communicated, using terms that evangelicals are familiar with."
Many who agree with McCain's comprehensive approach to an immigration overhaul, such as Sen. Ted Kennedy, D-Mass., routinely invoke biblical imperatives in defending their stance. McCain doesn't.
Perkins and Gary Bauer, both key players in advancing the Christian conservative agenda in Washington, said they knew virtually nothing about McCain's religious life.
Pressed on the issue in the interview, the normally garrulous McCain haltingly - "I just pray the way most people pray" - but convincingly described a rich and fulfilling spiritual life.
Learned in childhood. Deepened in Vietnam. Nourished today by a redemptive Baptist church, daily prayer, generally in the evening, sometimes holding hands with wife Cindy, occasionally reading a family Bible, always seeking "guidance, comfort and wisdom in almost every aspect of my life."
McCain was raised an Episcopalian in a family that "observed our faith openly and without reservation."
In his memoir "Faith of My Fathers," McCain recalled the religious model his father provided: "(He) was devout, although the demands of his (naval officer) profession sometimes made regular church-going difficult. ... My father didn't talk about God or the importance of religious devotion. He didn't proselytize. But he always kept with him a tattered, dog-eared prayer book, from which he would pray aloud for an hour, on his knees, twice a day."
Comparing his practices to his father's, McCain said ruefully, "I'm not as devout or as good."
McCain has for years attended North Phoenix Baptist Church in Arizona. The church has about 6,000 members and is part of the theologically conservative Southern Baptist Convention, the nation's largest evangelical denomination.
Cindy McCain and two of their children have been baptized in the church. McCain hasn't: "I didn't find it necessary to do so for my spiritual needs," he said.
McCain still calls himself an Episcopalian, but he said he began attending North Phoenix Baptist because he found "the message and fundamental nature more fulfilling than I did in the Episcopal church. ... They're great believers in redemption, and so am I."
"We encourage all our members to engage their world with their faith," said the Rev. Dick Stafford, the church's associate pastor. "That means they define the world they live, work and have a sphere of influence in, and try to live out an authentic faith in that environment. ... I think John's got an authentic faith. He has the same questions we all do about trying to find out what's right and living in accordance."
Marlene Elwell, a political activist who worked for McCain as a liaison to Christian conservatives until she left the campaign amid rancor a few weeks ago, nevertheless said she's convinced from conversations with McCain that he takes his church's mission to heart, prays regularly and "is a man of deep faith."
"There's a driving force that gives him a purpose in life greater than himself," Elwell said. "The greatest witness is how you live your own life."
McCain tiptoed near the subject on his campaign bus, saying, "I know this sounds schmaltzy and maudlin and everything like that. I'm not sure - have no idea - whether I'm intended to be president of the United States. But I know I'm being kept here for a reason, and that is to serve."
Gloria Haskins, a South Carolina state representative who's endorsed McCain, said she doesn't think his difficulty discussing his faith will hurt him with evangelical conservative voters, who make up at least a quarter of likely Iowa caucus-goers and more than half of South Carolina Republican primary voters, two key early voting states.
"I'd tell folks who would ask such questions of him to look to the Bible," Haskins said. "By his acts you shall know him. He has repeatedly shown a love of justice and mercy, which is a sign of someone with a deep, abiding faith and a love of God."
But while his reticence to talk openly of his faith may not hurt McCain politically, many observers said it certainly would help him if he did.
Given that his chief competitors for the Republican nomination, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, aren't regarded as natural allies of Christian conservatives, "a positive religious proclamation would have a strong effect," said Don Aiesi, a political scientist at Furman University in South Carolina.
"They're looking for people who have faith that guides them in making decisions," agreed Steve Scheffler, president of the Iowa Christian Alliance.
McCain, told of that, pointed to his time as a prisoner of war, when a Vietnamese guard who had been kind to McCain etched a cross in the prison-yard dirt with his sandal one Christmas morning. The guard rubbed it out after the two had stared at it together for a minute or so.
The lesson has stayed with McCain ever since: "Wherever you are in the world, no matter how tough the situation is or how difficult, how despondent you are, there will be some way for your faith to lift you up and sustain you."

Undecided?: WHY JOHN MCCAIN

2007-06-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

John McCain is an experienced conservative leader in the tradition of Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and Ronald Reagan.

"Common sense conservatives believe in a short list of self-evident truths: love of country; respect for our unique influence on history; a strong defense and strong alliances based on mutual respect and mutual responsibility; steadfast opposition to threats to our security and values that matches resources to ends wisely; and confident, reliable, consistent leadership to advance human rights, democracy, peace and security."
-Senator John McCain

He is a common sense conservative who believes in a strong national defense, a smaller, more accountable government, economic growth and opportunity, the dignity of life and traditional values.

America's Strength At Home and Abroad
The world is a dangerous place, and we need a leader who is ready to assume the job as Commander in Chief on day one of the Presidency. No candidate has the experience or is better prepared for this task than John McCain. America is engaged in a war against violent Islamist extremism. A totalitarian enemy declared war on America, attacked our nation on September 11, 2001, and is committed to the destruction of the values we hold dear.
John McCain understands the importance of America's values and the need to protect freedom against the forces of hatred and despotism. As a Naval aviator, prisoner of war and a legislator who is a trusted leader on national security issues, John McCain understands that the first duty of government is to protect the American people and our freedoms. He has been on the front lines in advocating for a comprehensive strategy in the long war against violent Islamist extremism using all the instruments of national power.
While some have argued for wholesale retreat in Iraq, John McCain realizes that failure in Iraq would be devastating to U.S. national security. He has long believed that security must be established first for there to be any chance of political progress and civil stability. That is why since 2003 he has advocated for more troops and a change in strategy to give our forces in Iraq the best chance to succeed. He understands that we must not leave Iraq and the region in disarray, or it will be a security problem for the United States for many generations to come.
John McCain knows that America is a force for good in the world, and for peace and freedom to prevail our defenses must be second to none. He has been a strong proponent of missile defense, a larger Army and Marine Corps, and a broad-based strategy to stem the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. John McCain agrees with Ronald Reagan that "peace through strength" is the best policy for America.
McCain on Smaller Government and Economic Prosperity
John McCain agrees with the Reagan philosophy that Americans are not taxed too little, but rather government spends too much. That is why John McCain has been a forceful advocate for smaller, more responsible government.
Unfortunately, even a Republican Congress lost its way on this important principle - spending too much and growing the size of government. John McCain stood his ground even when it was unpopular, leading a tough and often lonely fight in Congress against pork barrel and other profligate government spending.
Washington too often serves special interests and ignores the interests of the American taxpayer. John McCain can be trusted to reduce the size of government and enact reforms that will make it more responsive and accountable, so that taxpayers' hard earned dollars can be used to meet national priorities, not the spending schemes of politicians more interested in their incumbency.
As President, John McCain will make it a top priority to balance the budget and get federal spending under control so that our children aren't burdened with a mountain of debt that will rob them of their future.
As President, John McCain will pursue pro-growth economic policies. He believes in simplifying the tax code, keeping marginal tax rates low, and pursuing free trade policies to increase American prosperity and competitiveness. John McCain also believes that tax cuts work best when tied to spending restraint. Higher taxes and runaway spending discourage entrepreneurship, foster wasteful tax-planning and slow long-term economic growth.
The Dignity of Life and Traditional Values
As President, John McCain will promote a culture of life in word and in deed. The dignity of life and our traditional values are under assault in a culture that is growing coarser and more indifferent to the inherent value and dignity of all human life. Since John McCain entered the Congress, he has been strongly and consistently pro-life. He supports the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and believes that the abortion question should not be decided by judicial fiat.
John McCain believes that marriage should be defined as a union between one man and one woman. He believes that the courts should respect the right of the people to decide this question.
As president, John McCain will fight to ensure that the law is on the side of families against the corruption and exploitation of children in the media and on the Internet.
John McCain believes judges should interpret the law, not invent it. As president, he will appoint strict constructionists to the Supreme Court and the federal judiciary.

A Leader for America
Whether in the military or civilian service, John McCain has never ducked a fight for his country or his principles - even when unpopular. Because of his courage of convictions and his experience, John McCain is ready to lead our great nation with the patriotism, principles, and strength that America deserves, the first day he assumes office.