For Republicans, common ground is necessary

When I heard that some in the G.O.P. were trying to establish a “purity” test, I was concerned. According to what I read, candidates failing to agree with at least 8 of the 10 points in the test would not be eligible for money or endorsements from the party. My concern was based on a tendency by some to narrow the party’s base, thus hurting our overall chances in the 2010 elections. After reading the ten resolutions, I’m not concerned.

Fiscally, I’m about as conservative as you get, and I favor limited government. The stimulus bill, bank bailouts, cap-and-trade, and socialized medicine all nauseate me, I oppose amnesty for illegal immigrants, and I’m a strong proponent of 2nd Amendment rights. That seems fairly common for a Republican, doesn’t it? It is, until you consider that I support gay marriage, I’m prochoice, and support the decriminalization of marijuana. Some would find these positions inconsistent with the Republican party, but I don’t. If someone truly believes in limited government, then they should stay out of its citizen’s private lives. » read more