So what is a conservative anyway? My view of a conservative is one that puts individual freedom first. It is someone that believes strongly in our Constitution and our Bill of Rights. by Karl Dickey
(libertarian)
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Although I consider myself a conservative Libertarian, there was a time I was a hardcore Republican. I left the party back in 1996 and frankly was already looking for another political party from back in 1992. Whereas I agreed with the rhetoric being broadcast from Republican candidates, I found once in office, their votes were not conservative and certainly NOT in line with their campaign speeches.
So what is a conservative anyway? My view of a conservative is one that puts individual freedom first. It is someone that believes strongly in our Constitution and our Bill of Rights.
Not long ago many of my conservative Republican friends were bashing McCain and rightfully so. Today? They are actually excited about voting for him. I am sorry, however this is not only improper, it is a compromise of one's principles. A compromise in favor of who can potentially win over choosing a candidate most in line with their own values.
Here in Florida there will be 13 presidential candidates to choose. Which will get the conservative Republican vote? They should vote for either Bob Barr or Chuck Baldwin — but I am convinced they will choose the lesser of two evils.
Conservatives, I thought, once believed government should get out of lives so long as we're not harming another. However, it appears conservatism has been undergoing a new stage — a stage away from Goldwater and moving in a direction that I cannot support.
How one can support a more intrusive government and still consider himself a conservative is simply something I cannot understand.
So my conservative friends, this November 4th take a leap (I know it's hard) and vote for someone that is actually in line with your conservative values. Personally, I'm going with Bob Barr of the Libertarian Party, however there is also Chuck Baldwin with the Constitution Party if you like the addition of religion to politics.
The views expressed
in this article are those of Karl Dickey only and
do not represent the views of Nolan Chart, LLC or its affiliates.
Karl Dickey is solely responsible for the contents
of this article and is not an employee or otherwise affiliated
with Nolan Chart, LLC in his/her role as a columnist.
Posted By: David K. Meller
Date: 2008-10-08 09:57:24
Bob Barr and the Libertarians are an excellent choice. You have the additional advantage that you can vote (and support and campaign for) a number of local, State, and Congressional candidates as well.
It is true that Barr started out as a neocon Republican, and still has some issues, particularly in the issues surrounding the "war-on-drugs". I am also unsure if he recognizes the fundamental libertarian political axiom that taxation is theft, since he (and his running mate) still seem to have some kind words to say about that  preposterous "fair tax"--a national sales tax--that would already increase the bloated prices we pay for goods and services, further interfere with online purchases, and lay the groundwork for future "sin taxes" as the government tries to influence our purchases "for our own good" of course...
Bob Barr and the Libertarians need our support. He is moving "freedomward" , a rare thing for a politcal candidate of any party, and at any time. This should be encouraged as much as possible.
Who knows, after Obama has been President for a year or two, maybe other Republicans will follow.
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