Sowards: Independence From Tyranny

Greg Sowards

Declaring independence from tyranny is, ultimately, the American people’s defining characteristic. Whether the tyrant was the English Crown, the Third Reich or Islamic Supremacy, the American people have always united to deliver the blessings of liberty to their children. Today, the American people are overwhelmingly opposed to the culture that has gripped Washington. An unresponsive Congress and an Administration intent on “fundamentally transforming America" have led to obvious violations of the public trust.
From the bailouts of TARP to job killing bureaucratic regulations to the failed stimulus, out of control spending, unconstitutional power grabs and a lack of Executive leadership these last four years have caused a colossal shift in the attitudes of thinking people from all political persuasions.
Meeting the people of New Mexico these past months, the shift in attitudes is remarkable. On my campaign trail I have spoken with registered Republicans, Independents and Democrats; all hard-working men and women who voice their frustrations with Washington and its lack of basic economic and social principles. The conversation often starts with “Yes, I am a registered Independent, but lately I have voted Republican” or with “Well, I'm a Democrat, but I vote the man not the party.” As a candidate for U.S. Senate determined to restore the promise of prosperity to America, leading with the consent of the governed will require a shift in culture in DC. That shift can begin right here in our home state.

The New Mexico GOP, has a golden opportunity to capitalize on voter frustrations and increase its registered base by as much as 10% in 2012.
The state Senate in Santa Fe shows a nearly 2 to 1 advantage for Democrats. This ratio does not reflect the consensus of the people. The leadership is determined to live on the welfare of the federal government rather than spur economic growth in the private sector. People of New Mexico are tired of being part of Washington's spending problem and are ready for leadership that focuses on creating an environment that encourages new businesses to start and grow while creating jobs for our children.

The narrowing gap in the House, the election of Governor Susana Martinez, Lieutenant Governor John Sanchez as well as the sudden groundswell of active conservatism in places like Quay and Curry County are proof that the good people of New Mexico are searching for leaders with the resolve to declare independence from the European-styled socialism being forced upon us by career politicians in Washington D.C. and Santa Fe.

In short, it is time for optimism in the Republican Party. Our message of limited government, lower taxes and personal responsibility is winning. The advances of information technology and social media are revealing the Democratic and progressive agendas for what they are – the loss of generational opportunity and welfare checks rather than paychecks.

I look forward to working with county and state GOP leaders along the campaign trail to increase GOP voter registrations in New Mexico. The largest change in party affiliation to the Republican base in the next months will originate from registered independents, eager to exercise their vote in determining the direction of the present political movement at their first opportunity - the primary elections.
Greg Sowards is a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate.

Sowards: Independence From Tyranny