I long ago determined that its good to have opinions.  I also long ago learned that when you take a stand or make a decision, some people may not like you so much.  Now, while I like to tell new friends the ole adage: “Never talk politics or religion with people you don’t know well,” oftentimes my mouth gets the better of me – because I’m a political junkie who isn’t afraid to tell it the way I see it.

Now, like 46% of the electorate this year, I’m a Republican.  Actually, I’m a conservative traditionalist, so right now, that means Republican.  The most remarkable part of having this viewpoint is how completely unpopular it is with the folks I know who are influenced heavily by the media.  The worst part is that people of the opposing viewpoint have limited respect for those with conservative values.  They assume I’m a gun toting, anti-progressive person with a limited worldview.  How offensive, given that I am better traveled than most people I debate!

Why am I a Republican? Because I believe in low taxes, strong defense, rights that our framers intended and I strive for a world where life and values aren’t attacked.

I’m a globalist.  We’re in a global economy, the world is now flat.  The United States is the last superpower that can influence the forming of democratic countries around the world.  I believe in better trade agreements with other countries (Columbia, for example).  The United States will never be able to shelter itself again, and it should not try to.

I support life.  I’m not saying abortion should be illegal (that would be completely unreasonable) but its reasonable to expect that the pro-choice movement can come together with those who respect life and find ways to reduce abortions.  Regulation is definitely needed and regulation is not a threat to legality.

I support business.  Small business is the cornerstone of the economy.  It provides jobs to many, including me.  I’ve never worked for a poor man, so I want to encourage business development and reward those who provide jobs by investing in businesses.

I support traditional values.  I’m not for denying anyone rights or freedoms that anyone else has, but I’m not in agreement with changing traditions thousands of years old because we’re now “progressing.”

Lately, it seems to me that liberals believe they have exclusive rights to idealism.  Conservatives are idealistic too.  But we want to put power in the hands of the people to accomplish goals and not in the hands of government.  We want people to decide by ballot and not judges by gavel.

Now isn’t a popular time to be a Republican, especially in a blue state.  I hope that the leaders of the party embrace our core values to rebuild the party.  For most conservatives I know, politics doesn’t just happen every four years – rebuilding starts today!