Why I Am a Democrat

For the past couple of days I, like many others, have been watching coverage of the 2004 DNC Convention in Boston. In all of the coverage, I have really begun to realize what it really means to be a Democrat, and why I think I will always be a Democrat. Recently, I have tried to challenge myself to define what my political views and philosophies are; what it is I truly stand for. And what I have decided is this:

I believe that the American dream should be accessible by everyone, and that you should not have to sacrifice happiness or family to achieve it.

I believe in the democratic process, and that every vote does count and that every vote should be counted.

I believe that our Republic is established by the rule of law, and that the rule of law should be applied equally.

I believe that it is the role of the courts to act as a guardian of the people, ensuring that the rule of law is equal and that lady justice remains blind.

I believe that our military and defense should be strong, efficient, and should only be used when all other avenues have been exhausted.

I believe that public education can work and be just as good as private education.

I believe in fair taxation, based on ability to pay, that does not place an unfair burden on the rich or the poor.

I believe that the economic success of our nation lies in the hands of small business and the individual not in multinational conglomerate corporations.

I believe in establishing an energy policy that moves us forward and away from a dependance on fossil fuels.

I believe that education and independent thought is the most powerful weapon that anyone can have.

I believe in the right of private citizens to be armed, but I also believe that it is in the best interest of the government to make sure that the armed populace is a responsible populace.

I believe in family and parental responsibility, that every child should be a wanted child.

I believe that abortion should be legal, safe and rare.

I believe that a truly free and equal society recognizes the a separation between church and state, while still preserving each individual person's right to express their spirituality.

I believe that we as Americans, have a special role and responsibility in the world, and must not act with unilateral brute force to destroy other cultures or beliefs for our own financial and military gain.

Finally, I believe in the idea that in the United States we have an opportunity to be the greatest nation on earth, not because of our riches, military, corporations, political power, technology, but because of our people and the ideas that we stand for.

It is because of these beliefs and more, that I have chosen to be a part of the Democratic Party. While I may not agree with everyone who shares my party affiliation, I know that is ok. The Democratic Party is not one color or thought, but a combination of many colors, thoughts and people who together, represent real American Family Values.