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Rather Be Free
by Bob Nightingale (libertarian)
About The Author
I'm a software professional, working for a multinational company. I live in Michigan and have most of my life. I have a college degree, married, children, and a dog. I'm in my 40s and pay taxes. I've had the opportunity of international travel, but I now work mostly from home. I am also involved in local Republican politics. I am working to bring back some of the forgotten principles of Calvin Coolidge and Robert Taft. And of course, those of Ron Paul. Yours in Liberty. About The Column
Since I started writing here regularly (a.k.a DigitalBob), I've had the opportunity galvanize what I believe. I have written a series of opinion pieces highlighting the hypocrisy of how we are governed contrasted with words and intent of the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. These are the anchors of our way of life. Too often they are ignored or substituted with competing ideologies. With my words here, I rise in objection to those who would drag this country in the direction of tyranny and socialism. The best decisions are made at the lowest levels of government, and the smallest unit of government is the individual. We need to pay our bills, keep our promises, and not enslave our children with today's public debt. Grandpa's War Stories
Published: July 28, 2009
A child-soldier's view of war, told to his grandchildren, many years later.
Not Any One Party
Published: February 11, 2009
Although I participate in Republican Party politics, it's a vehicle, not a destination. Your decision about how to participate may vary.
Public Outrage is Good for TARP
Published: February 4, 2009
Restrictions are no fun for any business. But when a badly run company is using MY money, I want a say in how it's run.
A Story to Explain "Shameful" Executive Bonuses
Published: February 1, 2009
This past week, President Obama expressed disappointment over Wall Street firms paying out large bonuses, after accepting taxpayer monies to stay in business. The explanation is simple.
Obama's Fiscal Fight This Summer
Published: January 18, 2009
With just a few days before Barack Obama takes office, he is busily laying the groundwork for his administration's first days. In the process he's setting the stage for fights with the Fiscal Conservatives. The change he gets may not be the change he wants.
The Marketplace Continues to Vote "No Confidence"
Published: December 23, 2008
Even with record government interventions, stock prices continue to slide.
Tyranny with a Stroke of a Pen
Published: December 20, 2008
President Bush decided to keep two auto makers in business through the end of his administration, over the will of the people.
I'm a Ford Guy, but I can change
Published: November 18, 2008
It's a guy thing to identify yourself by the car you drive. The current bailout of the car industry is fueled by emotion.
Dear Congress, No More Bailouts!
Published: November 13, 2008
What follows is the letter that Congress receives and ignores.
Republicans Looking for Ideas
Published: November 8, 2008
After getting trounced in the general elections this week, an activist group is trying to gather ideas for the RNC. This week party members are trying to figure out the new face and direction of the party. You can help.
One More Debate Sunday
Published: October 17, 2008
Voters will have a chance to see qualified Presidential candidates debate, if they have subscriptions to cable or dish.
Not Invited to the Debate
Published: October 16, 2008
Americans only got to hear from two of six possible candidates for President, filtered by opinion polls.
Republicans Forgot 1952
Published: October 7, 2008
Dwight Eisenhower would not have become President had his campaign not made a deal with the fiscal conservatives of his day. Today's Republicans gambled on a moderate "maverick" candidate and may lose this time around.
Looking at Naked Shorts
Published: September 18, 2008
The selling of stock that an investor doesn’t own is a form of sanctioned theft. The rules that allow for selling a stock short need to be enforced, or confidence in the stock market will further erode.
David Walker: The End is Coming And No One is Listening
Published: September 15, 2008
The most important issue is hardly talked about. It isn't the war, health care, or global warming. The increasing national debt is a financial cancer that will affect us and our grandchildren. Without money, none of these other things matters.
Scat Bags and Sidewalks
Published: September 11, 2008
Reflections on city living and trade-offs for civility sake.
Opposing the Platform of the American People in Michigan
Published: August 24, 2008
During the Michigan GOP Convention, a group of Ron Paul activists and Republican libertarians moved a state party to do the right thing.
An Hour with Gary Wood on Blogtalk Radio
Published: August 14, 2008
Yesterday, I was a guest on the internet radio show “March of Liberty” hosted by Gary Wood. We got to touch on a number of topics near and dear to my heart, including my recent election to precinct delegate, Ron Paul, national economics, political parties, the War in Iraq, and many other things that you’ve seen here in this column.
Running Unopposed
Published: August 8, 2008
If you want to make a change, quit whining, run for office. It's not as hard as you think.
No Stopping the Debt
Published: August 3, 2008
The recent housing bill also includes the provision to raise the national debt, again.
Freddie and Fannie: whom are we saving?
Published: July 17, 2008
As these two Government Sponsored Entities move closer to the brink of collapse, it may be more merciful to let them go.
The Kent Snyder $400,000 Reality Check
Published: July 14, 2008
Long-time Ron Paul confidant Kent Snyder died recently at the age of 49. He had no medical insurance and left his family with a bill of $400,000.
Got Pruned
Published: July 5, 2008
This author got hit with unemployement and recovered quickly. Rest of his state, not so lucky.
Australian Troops Leave Iraq
Published: June 3, 2008
500 Australian military leave Iraq combat operations, fulfilling new government’s campaign promise.
Hillary's Pledges Mean Nothing
Published: May 29, 2008
The current controversy with the Democrats counting Michigan and Florida has everything to do with a candidate’s lack of character.
Every War Has Its Caliber
Published: May 28, 2008
After five years of fighting, soldiers say that the bullets used in M16 & M4 rifles are not effective in street fighting. Our warriors deserve the tools necessary to come home alive.
Aggressive Pruning Is Needed
Published: May 26, 2008
This Memorial Day Weekend I'm in my back yard, trimming back some severely overgrown bushes. The country needs to do the same with Federal spending.
U.S. Senate Agrees to Fund Another Year in Iraq
Published: May 23, 2008
US Senate passes $165 Billion war funding bill by a 70-26 vote. I'm screaming at my television.
Even the USDA Hosts Criticism of $300 bln Farm Bill
Published: May 20, 2008
The nearly $300 billion 2008 Farm Bill, which will probably survive a presidential veto, is best criticized on a government website.
The War on Anything
Published: May 18, 2008
The "War on Terror" engenders a ho-hum response by everyday folks. By declaring wars on concepts, the phrase loses its impact. War is too serious a concept to be used for ideological marketing.
Going Nuts for Farm Subsidies
Published: May 16, 2008
Although there are some new caps, the 2008 program is basically unchanged since the one in 2002. Taxpayers are funding a host of unnecessary research and marketing programs.
NC's Upset Winner is . . . Alan Keyes?
Published: May 7, 2008
Just when you thought it was over, this race gets a little stranger. Keyes may get a couple delegates to the convention.
Ron Paul Spends Cinco de Mayo with 1500 Hoosiers
Published: May 6, 2008
On the eve of Indiana's Primary, Republican Presidential candidate Ron Paul makes one last visit on the Indiana-Purdue Fort Wayne campus.
Gas Tax Shell Game, Blame Game
Published: May 4, 2008
Candidates' proposals have nothing to do with solving anything, except their vote deficits.
My Precinct Delegate Quandary
Published: April 30, 2008
I'm seriously thinking of running for my first elected office. It shouldn't be this hard. So what's going through my mind that's keeping me from sending in the forms?
Ron Paul Indiana Signs of Life
Published: April 29, 2008
Nevada shows that not coming in first doesn’t mean you can’t win a state. The Paul campaign is down, but not over in the Hoosier state.
Stagflation, My Old Friend
Published: April 6, 2008
For those of us who grew up in the 1970s, we're beginning to see familiar patterns that led to double digit inflation. Enjoy my childhood memories.
My Condolences to Senator Stabenow
Published: April 4, 2008
In the local papers, the Michigan junior U.S. Senator was on the front page--along with her husband and his hooker.
Biodiesel Scam against U.S. Taxpayers, European Producers
Published: April 3, 2008
In an effort for politicians to appear “green”, the U.S. subsidies for biofuels are having unintended consequences on two continents.
Reflections on "The Clean Energy Scam"
Published: April 2, 2008
The cover article from this week's Time magazine says what many, although not most, think about so-called "clean" alternative fuels, particularly ethanol.
The Anti-Voter Ultimately Decides
Published: March 29, 2008
How sad that we vote not for who we want, but against what we don't want. This Presidential election will be no different.
Iceland Fights Inflation
Published: March 26, 2008
In contrast to the US Federal Reserve, the central bank of the northern Atlantic island nation of Iceland raises its rates to 15% on inflation fears. My crystal ball says the US will do the same in about a year.
Gold, Oil and Dollars
Published: March 12, 2008
What is the real price of Oil? If it were priced in gold instead of dollars, would it be as expensive?
Dried Up Tears
Published: March 12, 2008
This is a response to Michael Savage's observation on last week's massacre of Israeli schoolchildren. He may be right. Perhaps I don't have enough tears.
Advice for McCain
Published: March 5, 2008
Now that John McCain has locked up the Republican nomination, I can put on my cynical advisor hat. I’m sure that he’s gotten most of the advice below, but from someone else, who can keep a straight face.
Seeking Anti-War Republican
Published: February 19, 2008
Below is a want-ad you're not going to see in your local newspaper. It isn't PC. But as these wars in Iraq and Afghanistan burn American lives and dollars....
Washington State's 2nd Chance Republican Primary Tuesday
Published: February 16, 2008
With most of the media declaring John McCain the Republican nominee, most are ignoring that he hasn't gotten a lock on the remaining states yet.
McCain's Citizenship
Published: February 13, 2008
The requirements for President are that one must be at least 35 years old, a "natural born citizen" of the United States, and a resident for 14 years. John McCain has the first requirement down twice, but the second one could be called into question.
Ron Paul Financial Support Fading
Published: February 12, 2008
Internet supporters have been generous to the 10-term Texas Congressman and his libertarian message. This week's contributions are the lowest in four months.
Ron Paul's Moral Victory
Published: February 11, 2008
I never like to lose. I've heard the term "Moral Victory" more times than I like to admit. But in this case it's apropos.
GOP Voters in LA, KS, WA: McCain isn't the One
Published: February 10, 2008
Despite Romney's plea for Party unity, GOP Kansas primary voters pick Huckabee, Louisiana and Washington State split their vote.
Half of Louisiana's GOP Delegates Sought in Primary
Published: February 9, 2008
In a previous article, I attempted to explain the Bayou State's Caucus/Primary system. Today's vote will count only if one candidate gets more than 50%.
Romney Gone, Delegates Available
Published: February 8, 2008
Ron Paul and Huckabee camps have to scramble if they want the spoils of the Romney withdrawal.
After Super Tuesday, Ron Paul Should Consider a Plan-B
Published: February 6, 2008
Money and Support from the grass roots aren't getting it done for one presidential candidate.
Ron Paul has the Money, but not the Mo from Maine
Published: February 3, 2008
Yesterday's projections from Maine show that Ron Paul may place third in Maine's GOP caucus, which may be an indicator of things to come.
Fred Gone, Rudy Next?
Published: January 23, 2008
Thompson quits bid for President yesterday, Hunter last week. Will Florida break Giuliani?
GOP Votes Several Times In Louisiana
Published: January 22, 2008
Following the Ron Paul campaign, I wondered, "Why is he spending so much time in Louisiana lately?" The Primary won't be until after Super Tuesday. And then there are Caucuses....
Why I gave another $25: TV Time
Published: January 21, 2008
After contributing to the Ron Paul MLK Moneybomb this morning, I wrote a quick note to the official campaign.
Ron Paul Indiana Ballot Drive Is Done
Published: January 19, 2008
My sources say that the signatures are already collected. Gambling911.com is a little slow on the story. Ron Paul supporters need to focus their time on things that matter.
How Ron Paul Won Jefferson County
Published: January 18, 2008
If the grass roots wants to help Ron Paul win this election, it needs to emulate what works, quickly. One county in Iowa figured it out.
Ron Paul Beats Fred and Rudy in Michigan
Published: January 16, 2008
Paul's 4th Place Finish is a sign to the lesser candidates to make a move or get out.
Ron Paul Supporters Toasting Victory in Michigan
Published: January 15, 2008
The Ron Paul 2008 official office and Meet Up groups are getting ready for Michigan returns. Everyone should be commended.
Counting Yard Signs in Southwest Michigan
Published: January 14, 2008
Since everyone is following polls for this Presidential election, I thought I'd run my own. I am flagrantly biased towards Ron Paul.
Ron Paul, Michigan, and Jobs
Published: January 11, 2008
In a few days, Michigan voters will have their say. Ron Paul is what's needed in the Wolverine State.
Quick Views from the UK, Monday
Published: January 7, 2008
DigitalBob is traveling for business this week in the UK, and will be back next week. He won't have access to American television, which may not be a bad thing. This is intended to be first in a series of notes this week.
Paul, McCain, Huckabee Qualify on Rhode Island Ballot
Published: January 4, 2008
Just received confirmation from RI Sec. of State's office three Republican candidates to be designated "Qualified For Ballot Placement" today.
Iowa's Witching Hour is 7 P.M. For Ron Paul Supporters
Published: January 3, 2008
In a few hours, we'll see if Ron Paul's people prove the mainstream media and polls wrong. If you're late, your vote doesn't count.
3,400 Indiana National Guard On Their Way To Iraq
Published: January 3, 2008
Pride and sadness are two emotions that come to mind when I saw this on my local TV news.
Ron Paul Only Conservative On Corn
Published: January 1, 2008
Ron Paul is the only presidential candidate that treats farmers with dignity as businessmen and as adults. He doesn't rob taxpayers to buy votes of farmers or anyone.
Iowa's Corn Welfare
Published: December 31, 2007
As the nation watches Iowa anxiously for who the most likely next President will be, let's take a moment to look where your tax money is going.
Brother, Can You Spare Me Another $23 Million?
Published: December 30, 2007
Ron Paul campaign sends out plea for more money. And it may just get it.
Setting the Ron Paul Mendoza Line
Published: December 29, 2007
With the Iowa Caucus just a few days away, the polls have Romney and Huckabee battling it out for first place. Who gets third is the real story.
Fred Thompson Lacking In "Substance"
Published: December 27, 2007
"Substance" is the new video put out by the Thompson campaign, which it wants to air in Iowa. The 30-second video ad doesn't say how he will accomplish his Conservative-endorsed goals.
Fred Thompson Nearly Out Of Gas
Published: December 27, 2007
Keeping true to his campaign, he's bringing back the Red Pickup and Ronald Reagan from the dead. He's begging for money to prop up his failed conservative bid in Iowa.
Ron Paul Short in Rhode Island
Published: December 25, 2007
A change in filing deadlines has caught several campaigns off guard. Two Democrats and one Republican have gotten enough signatures for the March 4 primary.
Ron Paul Blimp Now Targets Football
Published: December 23, 2007
Blimp tentatively scheduled to fly over college bowl and NFL playoff games in Florida in January.
Ron Paul Iowa Caucus Goers Well Prepared
Published: December 23, 2007
After surveying the websites of GOP candidates, the Ron Paul campaign gives very specific instructions, not just for the precinct polling, but for the whole caucus process.
Michigan Democrats Should Consider Ron Paul
Published: December 21, 2007
Because Michigan moved up the date for its primary before Feb. 5, the Democratic National Committee has stripped MI of its delegation. Democrats are free to make a stand in the Republican Primary, if they choose to.
Tancredo Out, Who's Next?
Published: December 21, 2007
The GOP cannot settle on a front-runner, and may not have one by Super Tuesday. Tancredo got his message out and dropped out.
Billions of Dollars for Palestine: Bribes for Peace.
Published: December 18, 2007
Every Time Our Government Opens Its Mouth, It Reaches Into Your Wallet. The U.S. should get out of the middle east, and let the people there figure it out.
The Hillary We Already Know
Published: December 18, 2007
Senator Clinton has a new website dedicated to making her look more human. It's sad that she has to prove that. I don't want to like politicians. I want to know what they will do.
Virginia Settles on Presidential Candidates, Several Missing
Published: December 17, 2007
Although Viginia's Primary isn't until one week after Super Tuesday, it's interesting which candidates did not file. In a close race, States like Virginia may be more important
Ron Paul Excluded from Bill O'Reilly Poll
Published: December 15, 2007
For some, this may not be news--just confirmation of the sad reality of a major newscaster.
Ron Paul Donors Waiting to Exhale
Published: December 14, 2007
The slowdown in fundraising in the last two weeks is the calm before the storm. A repeat of Nov. 5 on Dec. 16 would give Paul over $15 million for the quarter.
Ron Paul Blimp Blog Boasts Banner
Published: December 13, 2007
New Blimp Blog has pictures, updates to schedule.
Ron Paul, Romney, Thompson Battling for Top Spot in West Virginia GOP
Published: December 12, 2007
The CNN Opinion Poll released this week does not include Paul and Thompson. Yet those two candidates are on the minds of West Viginians.
Iran's Nukes, They Should Know Better
Published: December 8, 2007
The Common Sense of our politicians baffles me. The NIE report shows the Iran threat is not as immediate as we were led to believe.
Ron Paul Blimp Meets First Funding Goal
Published: December 7, 2007
The $200,000 needed by Dec. 7th came in before 1 p.m. It's a "go" for launch.
Romney's Unnecessary Speech
Published: December 7, 2007
Although Mitt Romney gave an historic speed for a Mormon running for President, I don't think it was necessary. It's all been said before.
Don't Ask, Don't Tell, And Mostly Don't Care
Published: December 5, 2007
Gays in the Military don't bother me. I'm grateful for everyone in the Military. It's when behavior distracts from the mission is where line should be drawn.
Ron Paul Blimp Flight Plan Released
Published: December 3, 2007
This most visible PR stunt in the presidential campaign will begin this weekend.
What Happens After Ron Paul?
Published: December 2, 2007
For those who look at the glass half empty, there is a chance that Ron Paul may not win the Republican nomination for President. My daughter asks, what then?
McCain Hints Choice For VP: Upton?
Published: November 29, 2007
During the CNN/YouTube debate, McCain gives the qualifications for his VP. They seem to match up with the Congressman from Michigan.
Government for Sale, County Plans to Timeshare Lobbyist for $15,000
Published: November 28, 2007
In an ever shrinking pie of federal dollars, this community believes the only way to get its share is to hire its own lobbyist.
Democratic Primaries Skewed toward Clinton by FL, MI
Published: November 26, 2007
The DNC has nearly guaranteed Sen. Clinton will get at least half the delegates before Feb. 5, as of today.
Mitt Romney's Energy Program Will Burn Dollars
Published: November 25, 2007
Mitt Romney's plan for enery independence would result in unnecessary record spending, and would stand in the way of private enterprise initiatives. He's likened it to the Manhattan Project and the Moon Program. Romney should consider foreign policy part of the solution.
Presidential Primaries: Don't Forget Michigan!
Published: November 24, 2007
Iowa and New Hampshire are getting the media attention and candidate visits. The two major parties are more concerned about keeping power than attending the needs of Michigan citizens.
Dr. Who for President
Published: November 20, 2007
Ron Paul is picking up some traction in recent CNN poll in New Hampshire. The Doctor from Texas is still unknown to most of the public.
Ron Paul Coins Soars After Raid
Published: November 17, 2007
Commemorative coins value increase after Feds take dies and stock from private mint.
Be Aware of the World Social Forum!
Published: November 16, 2007
Jackie Smith, PhD, gives lecture at Notre Dame campus to introduce the World Social Forum during International Education Week, seeks student action.
Rice's Extremism
Published: November 14, 2007
Criticism of Secretary Rice's commitment to fighting "Extremism" at United Jewish Communities conference
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