When I signed up for duty, I didn't have to check my principles at the door. And I soon found out that the desire for victory did not overcome our devotion to ideals. Our party speaks for human freedom - for the sweep of liberties that are at the core of our existence. We do not shirk from our duties to preserve freedom so it can unfold across the world for yearning millions."
-President Ronald R
eagan, 1988
I Am A Republican Because...
I BELIEVE the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person's dignity, freedom, ability, and responsibility must be honored. I BELIEVE in equal rights, equal justice, and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, s*x, age, or disability. I BELIEVE free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth, and prosperity. I BELIEVE government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn. I BELIEVE the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations, and that the best government is that which governs least. I BELIEVE the most effective, responsible, and responsive government is government closest to the people. I BELIEVE Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times. I BELIEVE Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom, and human rights throughout the world. FINALLY, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.
