What I believe in (and what I don't)

This is not an exhaustive set of topics, but it's a good overview... I believe: 1) In a woman's right to choose - although I'd defer to the individual states as prescribed by the second item 2) In states rights (and by association the rights of the individuals collectively within the states). I think the most incendiary issue of this type is gay marriage. I believe it belongs with the states. I'm personally quite ambivalent about it; I certainly have no problem with it, but I wouldn't take my time to vote in a referendum on the topic. However, I believe that the people have a right to vote in such a referendum. If the majority does not approve in one state, I'm sure that there are others (Vermont ?) where such a right might ultimately (currently) be in place. People who feel strongly about it can move there. I can't help but take a moment to rail against Massachusetts' and their political gyrations to keep this issue off a special election (referendum, whatever). If the people of MA are goverened in a truly representative fashion, the liberal views of the governing body (and by association those of the people), would clearly defeat any proposals that threaten gay rights. Point is, the people should be allowed a vote. 3) In competition. Gotta flame against the type of thinking that rewards kids "just for playing". It's not the real world, and it is definitely not how I grew up. There are winners and losers. Get used to it. 4) In school choice. Have to since I believe in competition. But I would in any case; it's fair and is right. 5) In limited government - the government that governs best, governs least. 6) In low taxes. 7) Tax credits/deductions for college educations 8) Partial privatization of Social Security What I do NOT believe in: 1) The redistribution/transfer of wealth by government. I grew up middle class. My parents were teachers. We didn't have a ton of money and certainly weren't wealthy. I went to school at Marshall University in Huntington, WV and got a degree in Computer Science. I went on to do fairly well. By any standard, my wife and I are comfortable. But, I pay enough in taxes. I know better about what to do with my money, my healthcare, my retirement, than any government does. I think there should be an additional line on the tax form that would allow wealthy liberal taxpayers to add additional monies to the govenment. If they feel we need more taxes, let 'em pay it - voluntarily. 2) The Bush administration. As a registered Republican with libertarian, fiscal conservative roots, I cannot stand by a president who has: trampled individual rights, and squandered an opportunity to institute (fiscal) change on an incredible scale by bogging us down in Iraq. I have no doubt that we would have passed Social Security reform legislation if we had not been fighting an incompetent and unpopular war in Iraq. That's just one example; there are probably countless others; we'll never know because we've (they) fucked things up so badly. 3) Socialized healthcare.