Yes, you read right. I am considering re-joining the Republican party. After being an Independent since 2002, I am having doubts that this is the best approach.... at least in today's political environment. I don't see any voice for the Independents. Where is the voice of reason for the middle ground ? Why is there no movement towards leadership among Independents? Open primaries would help the I's, but I never even hear it considered in conversation or the media, The primaries come and I have no say in who is nominated to be my President. Most elections are still totally dominated by Republicans and Democrats and their very predictable disagreements. It's extremely frustrating.
The trouble isn't just with the lack of leadership amongst the Independents., it's also that the two parties are becoming more extreme because the moderates are leaving. It stands to reason the more extreme of the parties will gain power and influence. Witness what's been happening in Washington, DC for the last 10-12 years. With the two parties becoming more extreme, we have perpetual disagreement. Endless bickering. Nothing gets accomplished and it's all about who is "winning" as if the life of Americans is some sort of perpetual football game. Are you a Red state or a Blue state? Conservative or Liberal? Democrat or Republican? Pro-Obama or Anti-Obama? There was even an article in the paper recently that Congressional leaders are writing the title of new laws to flaunt which "side" the law is on. I receive letters from my congressman that speak to his consituency as if we're all Republicans !
Where is the wisdom? Where is the compromise? I believe this situation is very dangerous because extremism can never win unless it forces the opposing view into submission.
You see, ever since I left the Republican party I have watched as it lurched further and further to the right with no consideration of opposing views. I don't even recognize it anymore. Maybe I have to go back to being a Republican in the spirit of bringing it back to its roots; Individual responsibility, Fiscal Conservatism, Limited government in ALL issues including the bedroom and religion, a government that enables Americans to achieve their best, business friendly but not corporate welfare, and of course respect for the environment such as was championed by my favorite Republican President "Teddy Roosevelt". Bully !
So, I am considering returning to the Republican party because I want a voice in my government again. The extremists of the Republicans have taken over, therefor an infusion of reasonable human beings is very much needed for the good of the country. Above all else, if I'm a Republican I can vote in the primaries and help to block some of the scary people advertising themselves as "our future".
Wish me luck in my careful consideration on this matter.
In My Humble Opinion,
Chuck Marshall
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