It is high time for Conservatives to reclaim ownership of their principles from politicians who claim to represent conservative values in order to get elected. I consider myself a conservative and I bristle at the disgusting tactics and positions McCain and Palin have used in this campaign. It's insulting to me when they call themselves conservatives and then behave the way they do. I voted for Reagan because, though I did not agree with all of his positions, he was a man of dignity who commanded respect.
So, for starters I want to put down some policy goals that are based on conservative principles. I would encourage folks to comment and expand on the list.
1. Balancing the Federal budget and using honest accounting that reports future obligations
2. Being good stewards of the environment
3. Choosing smart and strong national defense strategies--staying out of foolish conflicts
4. Respecting and being fair to veterans--not just talk
5. Returning to principled moral leadership at home and abroad
6. Respecting people's rights to privacy--staying out of the bedroom and women's reproductive decisions
7. Respecting religious beliefs of others, including persons who are not religious
8. Investing in and boldy managing public education
9. Overseeing financial institutions to instill confidence for investors
10. Developing equitable tax policies that strengthen the middle class, encourage savings and investment
11. Balancing commercial and trade policies to encourage domestic investment and employment
12. Seeking long-term solutions to our challenges based on reason and science
13. Conducting civil public discourse
14. Calling upon and enabling citizens to contribute to shared goals
etc.
My hope is that others who share these values and goals will realize that people with a conservative point of view should support Obama and Biden because they have demonstrated principles and conviction that offer the best prospects for returning to the traditions of decency, respect, and common purpose that so many of us share regardless of any polital party. This is OUR country and we should not let it be hijacked by posers. I say ENOUGH!
