COLUMN: A Truly Unique Candidate
Many of the leading candidates in the 2008 presidential campaign are unique for a variety of reasons – gender, race, religion, etc. One candidate, however, is unique because of his distinct solutions to the many problems facing our nation today. These solutions are rarely heard from the other contenders in this race, not to mention from government leaders in general. This is not because his ideas are new. This candidate derives his solutions from the Constitution and the teachings of its framers.
This candidate is a gentleman named Ron Paul. Paul is a Congressman from Texas, serving in his 10th term. Throughout these 20 years of service in the House of Representatives, Paul has been recognized for his consistent voting record. He has never voted for legislation that was not specifically authorized by the Constitution.
Paul has proven himself to be an opponent to government expansion as well as the increased taxes and national deficit that result in such an expansion. He believes the income earned by American citizens belongs to them, not the government.
The sovereignty of the United States is also a very important issue to Paul. He opposes so-called “free trade” organizations which transfer the authority of Congress to regulate commerce with foreign nations to unelected organizations. He also opposes the attempts of the United Nation to tax the U.S.
Paul also understands the importance of securing our borders.
As a member of Congress, Paul voted against the Patriot Act. He does not believe in giving the government authority to spy on Americans.
Because of his willingness to follow the U.S. Constitution, Paul has distinguished himself above the other leading presidential contenders.
Colby Lyons is a senior majoring in law and constitutional studies. Questions and comments can be sent to him at c.lyons@aggiemail.usu.edu.