There is an often circulated statement within Republican circles, called “I am a Republican Because…” An amended statement follows this post.

But what of this statement, or the party platform for that matter? What relevance do these statements have in today’s GOP; just what does it really mean to be a Republican?

Over the past century, most Republicans have defined themselves as the party of basic Judeo-Christian norms and ideals, defined by the individual; thus we are the party of limited government and individual rights, of individual responsibility; and of the only economic system that respects these, capitalism.

Unfortunately, many of our party leaders have rejected these basic tenants in practice if not in statement. As these individuals gain strength within the party, it is the people of the nation who loose.

George Washington warned in his farewell address of political parties, and of those who would lead them. In 1796 he said of political parties, “…they are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwords the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.”

The Republican Party- including the NCGOP- must stand strong against the unprincipled within; those who do not stand by their campaign promises, and those who would attempt to undermine the rules-the formally stated will of the people. As the nation does through its Constitution, political parties have rules-each has a plan of organization, agreed upon by the representatives of the party-which must be followed; those of us in the GOP must require elected officials-whether officials of the party or of the state- stand by their word, and the platform and the Constitution. The NCGOP must adhere to principle.

If the NCGOP cannot follow its own plan, if our officials cannot stand by their word; how can we demand that the word of candidates – or the Constitution- be followed?

At the risk of sounding repetitive on this site, the GOP- particularly, the NCGOP- faces an opportunity to differentiate ourselves from those who would throw out these rules- and the value of honesty.

The time to act is now- there is too much to be lost if we do not. Our leaders must lead. Reason must not be abandoned for personal gain.

Thomas Jefferson said, “Do you want to know who you are? Action will delineate and define you.” Let our action define this Grand Old Party.

I Am A Republican Because…

I believe the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each individual has moral sovereignty over his own life.

I believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.

I believe that capitalism has brought to this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity previously unknown to human-kind.

I believe government must practice fiscal responsibility, allowing individuals to keep the money they earn.

I believe the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.

I believe the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.

I believe Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times, while fully adhering to the Constitution of the United States.

I believe Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and the inalienable rights of people throughout the world.

Finally, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.