The Carrot and the Stick Chapter 1

The Carrot and the Stick

Chapter One

The shift of power from the States to Washington

The federal government has become too burdensome and intrusive in the affairs of the States. Whether it is new regulations that stifle business formation by making it difficult for small business formation or onerous environmental standards that limit the affordable and abundant fuels that powers our economy and commerce.

Under President Obama this process has accelerated and our liberty has never been more at risk. Think IRS or NSA, add “If you like your Healthcare you can keep your Healthcare”. All this is taking place right before our very eyes and yet we feel helpless to turn the ship around.

I share that frustration, but with one exception, I am going to my best to standup and challenge the status quo.

Yesterday was an important day in my life, not because I announced my entry into elective politics, rather my youngest daughter and her husband moved from living under my roof into their first home.

My, my, how it has changed since the times when I was growing up. Nevertheless, it is an important milestone. It illustrates the challenges ahead for our younger generation. The choice they had is same for all young people trying to start their family. The option for them, in simple terms, was rent housing and pay $1,600 a month or buy and assume a $1,000 a month mortgage. You can begin to see the challenge our young people face.

This illustration is even more concerning when you consider the Quantitative Easing of our currency, QE1, QE2, QE3…… for sooner rather than later this inflationary policy will destroy any hope for the poor. You know I am not ashamed to say it. “I care deeply for each and every person in our community and my faith tells me that I am my brother’s keeper.” So if I sound like I am bashing the role of government to the detriment of the less fortunate then you have missed my point.

Our Constitution had a very contentious beginning and today we find ourselves entering that conversation and debate about the role of Government, much like our founding fathers. I believe it is not too late to reclaim the principles laid out in the Constitution.

The solution is right there in front of us… yes, you can see it if you just look in the mirror… it is you the voter.

Voting is the most sacred and important duty of Liberty. So let’s start the process of educating ourselves so that we can make informed votes and encourage participation in the process. It is not hard to do… it is as simple as meeting your neighbor… understanding that you won’t agree on everything… but there is one principle you share and that is liberty.