We the People!

As an advocate for personal freedom, limited government, and the sovereignty of individual states, I firmly believe that there are certain core tenets that should be universally upheld, regardless of political persuasion. In his historic and moving Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln spoke of a government that derives its powers from the people, serves the people, and is accountable to the people. Sadly, this fundamental principle seems to have been disregarded in recent times. It is distressing that Federal institutions have continuously violated the values enshrined in the Constitution and have failed to protect the basic rights of their citizens.

In my view, the government ought to steer clear of personal and private matters. Our decisions are ours alone, and so long as they do not encroach upon others’ freedom, we are free to lead our lives however we wish, without any undue government intervention. Confidential domains such as bedrooms, food choices, entertainment, or family affairs should be sacrosanct, and living in an egalitarian society implies that every individual has the right to make choices based on their personal prerogatives.

Moreover, I feel that the Federal Government should become a more robust advocate of States’ Rights, as opposed to treading upon them. Sensible environmental regulations must rest entirely within the purview of States. It is judicious to suggest that the Federal Government relinquish control of Federal lands and instead divvy them up among the several states that own them. This will facilitate states regaining control of their lands and reduce their reliance on the Federal Government for fiscal support.

Additionally, I find fault with the current tax system. As a citizen, I believe that I have a right to weigh in on how my tax dollars are spent. We ought to have a say in where our tax dollars go, as opposed to the government dictating its use. If a significant portion of citizens rallied behind domestic causes, rather than sending our monetary resources abroad,  it could substantially reduce our country’s deficit. Politicians are public servants, and as such, it is our right to have a say in how our tax dollars are allocated.

Lastly, during elections, a prudent approach would be to elect candidates whose interests and values mirror ours. If we vote for candidates with whom we share an ideological or philosophical affinity, it can foster a connection that makes it marginally more tolerable when we feel let down by the government. A shared preference for a particular brand of cigarette, whether symbolic or literal, can serve as an avenue for creating a bond with our elected representatives, even in the aftermath of a contentious policy decision as we smoke our favorite brand and bask in the afterglow of the screwing we just received from the government.