For much of our nation’s history, two political parties have dominated the electoral landscape. Our “winner-take-all” voting system, also referred to as the “first-past-the-post” or “relative majority” voting system, tends to favor the two-party system, as voters are often discouraged from voting for candidates from smaller parties who they feel are unlikely to win.

However, the actions of many elected officials often contradict the stated beliefs or positions of their respective parties, thus making party lines indistinguishable at times. These contradictions diminish the significance of political parties, relegating them to little more than fundraising machines for party favorites.

That aside, the two dominant parties typically represent diametrically opposed visions of America. Hence, if the preponderance of power or ideology is marginal or nonexistent, progress will often be marginal to nonexistent. This naturally leads one to ponder whether opposing ideologies should evenly share legislative control. More to the point – if one system of beliefs is understood to be fundamental to the continued and increasing success of America, then is it desirable to have an opposing philosophy attain any measure of legislative control?

The primary prerequisites for liberty and the long-term vitality of America are: a government limited in size, scope, and ability; individual freedom and responsibility; self-reliance; and a free market economy. These beliefs transcend party affiliation, and serve as the basis for my opinions regarding society and politics. In light of this, I have no desire to see anyone who is opposed to these fundamental beliefs in any position of consequence or legislative authority.

Many may see this as an expression of support for dictatorial or oligarchic rule. However, nothing could be further from the truth. The existence of a republic such as the United States is not dependent upon a balance or existence of opposing ideologies maintaining power. If this were so, then the opposing beliefs that gave rise to government entitlements, confiscatory taxation, and wasteful spending (among other things) would actually benefit the American economy, rather than bankrupt it.

If we are to experience true freedom in America, and re-establish the vision of the founders of this great nation, then those who believe and proliferate the socialistic policies that are eroding the very fabric of America should have no place in controlling the lives of our citizenry.