GA-9 Freedom Fighters' New Year's Resolutions

As 2009 draws to an end, Julie and I are reflecting back on a year where we have been truly humbled and blessed by the thousands of supporters we have met and who have joined us on the campaign trail. When we began this journey, we were encouraged to find so many citizens of the 9th District who share our concerns about the direction of our country.

So as we look towards 2010, let's be encouraged...because it's a New Year and a renewed opportunity to advance freedom, restore liberty and to get our country back on track.  

Therefore, I would like to offer these New Year's resolutions for all the GA-9 Freedom Fighters:

First, we are resolved to fight for the timeless values of fiscal responsibility, limited government, and preservation of the free market.  

• For far too long  the fundamental beliefs that our country were founded on - "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" - have been chipped away and ignored by those who seek to empower the government, and not the people.  As conservatives, we are committed to replacing careerism with conservatism at our Nation's Capitol.

Secondly, we are resolved to push-back the over-reaching, over-bearing government that seeks to preserve itself at the expense of our liberties. 

• For the last year we've witnessed- when something isn't working the solution is to stimulate it.  When it's failing, bail it.  And when it's bankrupting, buy it.   Instead, America needs reforms that empower the free market; allowing individuals and businesses to grow and prosper.

Thirdly, we are resolved to demand less spending, a balanced budget and an end to deficit spending.

• We must rein in wasteful spending and reckless borrowing and stop the irresponsible tax, spend and borrow mentality that plagues Washington.  Americans know what is best for them and we should empower the people, not the government.

Fourthly, we are resolved to pursue solutions that spur job creation and economic prosperity without another government stimulus.  

• After countless bailouts and two enormous stimulus packages, unemployment remains over 10 percent and Americans are feeling the effects of the government-manipulated economy, yet Washington continues to spend money it doesn't have. It is past time to return to free market, capitalistic solutions.   Congress should provide tax cuts, credits, and eliminations while reducing regulations on small businesses.  It is time to unleash the entrepreneurial spirit and the creativity of the American people once more.  

Finally, in order to advance liberty and restore freedom, we are calling on elected officials to evaluate and support policy based on these conservative principles:

• Adherence to the Constitution
• Reduces the size of government
• Lessens the tax burden
• Encourages personal responsibility
• Promotes liberty and justice for all
  

Therefore, in the spirit of a New Year, and in the spirit of a renewed America, the GA-9 Freedom Fighters are resolved to taking their fight to the ballot box, and on November 2, 2010, we will say with one clear voice "Don't Tread on Me."