This is a tricky post to write and I have debated on whether or not to even publish it. But the more I think about it, the more it needs to be said. Especially after the twitter attacks I’ve endured, this needs to be said, even if I’m the only one willing to say it.
The Republican Party is a disgrace and all Republicans should be ashamed at how we treat each other. What once was the Party of Lincoln – the party of Great Ideas for the Greater Good – the party of civil rights, womens rights – the party where people were encouraged to share and discuss ideas – The party based on liberty and unalienable rights – Republicans were founded on HUMAN DECENCY. This was the cornerstone of the Republican Party. Sadly, this once great party seems to have dissipated and I’m unsure of what we are left with.
I’ve been a Republican as long as I can remember. Watching Reagan speeches as a kid was a highlight of my childhood. Having my mom and dad sit me down in front of our TV and watch the charismatic Reagan speak the State of the Union or even when he admitted he was wrong (Iran-Contra). Even as a child I knew it took great courage and strength to apologize and admit he was wrong. Was he perfect? No. But he led from his heart with dignity, love and respect. He respected the people and most importantly he respected what it meant to be an American. Reagan it seems, was the last great Republican.
The current Republican party is not what I signed up to support all those many years ago.
I’m not just talking about politicians and pundits, I’m talking about the everyday Joe Blow Republican. I went to the Republican caucus and was appalled at what was coming out of their mouths. Only people that fall into their ‘special’ categories deserve equal rights under the law. There were nine people who showed up from my precinct. They voted me a delegate even though I did not support any of their candidates. I have always believed that Republicans were a fair group of people who believed that while the government should not provide for you, it will protect so that you can provide for yourself.
While debating the issues, one of the guys at the table said “She’s more conservative than we are!”
I believe that the constitution applies to ALL its citizens. A basic principle that the Republican party was founded on. I believe that the government protects those freedoms. I believe that the government should have respect for its citizens and that it’s citizens should respect it’s government, regardless of what party affiliation is in control.
I deeply respect President Obama. He is the commander in chief of this great country. He was voted in by the citizens of this great country. I don’t agree with 90% of his policies. But I do agree with him on a few things. I should be able to say that and discuss it, without being called a “moron” or a “godless liberal” or “ignorant trash” or that I am “A slut” for wanting my health insurance to cover my health needs. And this is where Republicans have lost their way. They refuse to hear anything besides what Republican pundits say regardless of thought and lacking all critical thinking skills . There are no suggestions just name calling and hate spewing. They shut down if it’s not their way. Democrats are always wrong solely on their label of Democrats. Republicans have become such a closed minded group of people, incapable of debate and resorting to personal attacks, blatant lies and hate. Now, don’t get me wrong – Democrats do this also. Just shut down and refuse to listen or try to understand. Both parties lack respect one another. But I’m not here to talk about the Dems. I’m here to talk about a once great party, that led the way in civil rights and freedoms. I mean, granted they supported prohibition – which is kind of a deal breaker – but that’s been repealed and they’ve seen the error of their ways.
The reason my precinct voted me a delegate was because for every soundbyte they tried to throw out, I countered it. Logically and effectively. One lady said that she liked Rick Santorum because of his stance on gay marriage. When asked why, she launched into this hate filled tirade that included snippets of the bible and the destruction of family values. “Ok, I understand that your religious beliefs prevent you from recognizing gay marriage. However, as a tax paying citizen having the government tell you who you can and cannot make a loving commitment to only undermines our collective traditional values as Americans. Our conservative beliefs are guided by the Constitution. A document that ensures that we have the right to privacy, freedom of speech and self expression. Now if two men get married, pay their taxes, how is that going to effect my marriage – or yours? It’s not going to, because what I do with my husband is none of the governments business.” Now, she went back to the bible, and I retorted once again, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise there of. What if my religion recognizes gay marriage? Does it still make it wrong? The gay marriage debate has two sides – political and religious. You can’t intermingle the two. If your church doesn’t recognize gay marriage that’s their right. However, as a citizen of America they are effectively told that they are not recognized to the same rights as other married citizens.” But then again, Rick Santorum doesn’t believe the constitution includes your right to privacy. Do you believe that the constitution includes your right to privacy?
This post will probably go over well with Democrats, because it’s pointing to the very flaws of the Republican party. But make no mistake Democrats, your party isn’t perfect either. You also have your fair share of hate mongers, extremists, in fighting and lackeys.
I encourage you all, regardless of party, to critically think about the policies and beliefs and most importantly the ACTIONS of who we are electing, who we want representing US – as Citizens. I encourage you to discuss the cause and effect without name calling or attacks – Or throwing out soundbytes or supposed ‘facts’ from people whose first concern is lining their pockets with money (ahem, Limbaugh and Olbermann). Let the other person finish their point, don’t dismiss their ideas or beliefs because they’re not yours. Try and understand WHY they believe that. Show compassion, dignity and love.
As I tell my kids, “Treat people the way you want to be treated and use your words.”
