Cause of Freedom

#157 - Reflecting on HR 1207

2009-04-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

It's amazing to see the Ron Paul and the Campaign for Liberty doing sucha great job of garnering support for HR 1207. While I hope to again make videos explaining lots of the economic concepts in their most basic form to help induct people into an austrian view of economics it's nice to see some true attention being paid to the federal reserve and how it influences the entire world.

Sometimes people just don't understand how the change interest rates could have such an influence on the prices and values of everything. To understand one must understand that all debt investments must key off the risk free rates, which is the rate of treasury debt. Risk Free, how can something be risk free you say, well the only reason Treasury debt is supposedly risk free is through the Federal Reserves open market operations where it enlists primary dealers to always being to meet the supply and demand needed to meet it's objectives.

Thus this processes creates a security that has little or no risk, and also let's the government borrow money cheap, yet when something is cheap demand grrows to unhealthy levels (i.e. Lower the price of soda, I will buy more of it).

So in effect you create a mentality in where the government will overspend with ease, which creates the inflation that pushes the process to devaluate the purchasing power of dollar for citizens like you and me.

It's sad and scary, very scary. Cause in the end the level of freedom is tied to our economic health and this creates a an engine of government spending that quickly has undermined our economic health and freedoms in the process.

So Yes, Hr 1207 is important to create the transparency to make this attrocity visible to those in power who claim ignorance, this bill is important.

Alex Merced

#156 - An update on things

2009-03-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I've been finding it harder and harder to find topics of posts since everyone at mises.org, campaignforlibery.com, etc. have already been doing such a great job. If you not checking those sites out regularly I suggest that you do.

But I guess let me post some of my thoughts on some of todays hottest questions:

Will the markets recover?

Surley, but if you live in the US it doesn't mean your standard of life will be all that great. The markets don't soley depend on U.S. companies or the U.S. Economy. So while years of no savings and dwindling production led to the worlds greatest consumer feeling some hurt along with everyone else. Everyone else will recover as their exports find new consumers now that countries like China who's been lucky to have a lot of saving will need to spend it.

Of course, these are all macroeconomic generalities which got us into the problem in the first place. I plan on putting my money in the market soon, cause I do feel many foreign nations will recover in some capacity sooner than later. I am a little bit more bearish on the U.S. economy cause I'm not seeing where new production jobs will come to fuel everything else. Oh well, maybe it's time for that move to the phillipines :).

If you have any questions you'd like me to write about, email it to me at alexmerced@alexmerced.com

#155 - Economic Emergency 1-3

2009-02-01T09:12:00.000-08:00

I've been spending some time observing the actions of goals of the new administration and reading a lot of media from mises.org before I posted again, well here are some videos with my thoughts.

#154 - GDP... WTF

2008-12-23T10:51:00.000-08:00

http://mises.org/story/770

This is a great article on GDP and the problems with it as an economic indicator. I thought I would expand on the premise just a little bit but first let me summarize. The point of the article is that GDP applies a framework where demand/consumption is the ends of of economic growth. Which in the end has the following pitfalls

1) Ignores the reality that demand is meaningless without means to meet the demand

ex. There can be no demand for eggs, but I can still produce an egg which could one day be valuable. But you can have a demand for time machine which doesn't exist so no underlying wealth is created by this demand.

Like if the government did it's job and stayed away from the auto industry and let these companies fail, in there wake there would still be the oversupply of cars which currently is no demand for but as the oversupply was consumed at lower liquidating prices would grow in value.

2) Government spending creates a fictional view of actual demand in the economy

since GDP takes government spending as a factor the growth can be overstated cause most government spending does not improve anyones standard of life, and sometimes is spent with money they don't have.

Like if I max out my credit card, my spending increases GDP, but am I really better off with all this debt?

Essentially, Consumption shouldn't be how you gauge growth, cause this means people must have needs/wants to be fulfilled but isn't the goal for people to have their needs/wants fulfilled. So why should growth depend on people needing more?

The article goes on and explains all this much poignantly than I can. Then goes on to talk about how the Fed foolishly believes inflationary monetary policy can fix the problem by increasing consumption.

Bottom line, when you change the enviroment, behavior changes. People don't save more cause they have more... they have more they spend it, and then spend some more they don't have.

Point is, feeding the consumption fire only feeds debt, like an ecosystem, the economic ecosystem needs to balance itself out and be free from outer manipulation.

#153 - What is to come

2008-11-26T07:54:00.000-08:00

Well,

working in the financial industry, I've been getting to watch the havoc of the current economic crisis with a nice front row seat. I've met many people who've been laid off, who've lost major amount of money in the market or in houses, and I've seen firms collapse. The house of cards is falling and while it's hard to watch it doesn't change the fundamental reality.

An economy cannot expand on credit alone, savings and production of goods must be at the foundation to sustain it. It's really that simple.

- Overregulation by Congress has pressured businesses overseas to remain competetive. While CEO's of these companies may seem overpaid, it doesn't change the reality previously stated.

- Manipulation of Interested rates by the FRB has incentivised debt and the inflation that has gone with it has destroyed the incentive to save. What's the point of saving, if you actually lose money in actual buying power if the money isn't spent NOW.

Money flows in and out of nations dependant on the imports/exports of the nation, if we don't produce the goods no matter how weak the dollar exports can't keep up with economy steroidal expansion.

If all our money is spent on imports, and no money is saved, what money is left?

So what does someone like nobel peace prize winner Paul Krugmen suggest? Lower Interest rates even more, give people even less reason to save? Expand the credit that's overexpansion caused the problem in the first place?

When a cup of water is overflowing, you don't pour more water in the cup. You let the excess water flow out till it reaches surface tension.

Wow... the current state of economics thought makes me sad.

#152 - Where do we go from here?

2008-11-07T10:07:00.001-08:00

Hello Everyone,

I bet your all thinking now that the 2008 election season is over, what do I do? Well before go into what let's reflect on the significant changes in this years election.

- 7 of the many candidates backed by Ron Paul libertyPAC won their perspective races putting us 7 offices closer to REAL policy changes.

- CampaignForLiberty.com continues to grow and organize the grassroots for the 2010 election season, as Republican leaders discuss how to organize a vibrant grassroots organization over the next few years, let's hope they finally wise up that it already exists and just needs to be embraced.

- While I'm no supporter of Barack Obamas policy views, symbolically he represents a very different view of America. While I don't think he'll cause as much damage as his detractors, I don't think much will change other than perception. Although, coming from a marketing background, sometimes perception can make a lot of difference in certain realms.

- Ron Paul is still being interview all the time, and Revolution: A Manifesto is still selling, so the moementum is still growing.

To follow my political efforts, make sure to keep up here and @ http://www.mercedforfreedom.com

I'll keep you guys updated like I always do.

- Alex Merced

#151 - Understand what's to come

2008-10-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

The passing of the bailout was the end of an era. The sovereignty of nations and the prosperity held for so many years is climbing to an end. While it's Sovereignty and Liberty that will help reveal the true prices and value of our economy so we can move on from this debacle, the powers that be, the central banks, will more than likely unite into a more global power to continue to prop up the straw man economy they've created since 1913.

All we can do is to change the mainstream mode of though one individual at a time by evangelising individual liberty and austrain economics. Only by being free as an individual can we show others why it's the ideal, and the laws and policies will change along with that.

So educate yourself, here's a good article for doing so by Jesus Huerta de Soto

Make sure to subscribe to this blog and have your friends subscribe too, we must keep the ways of communication open to change things.

Alex Merced
http://www.mercedforfreedom.com

#150 - The Importance of Utopia

2008-09-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

Many criticize politicians like Ron Paul who articulate goals such ending the IRS and the Federal Reserve as if they don't understand that it PRACTICALLY can't be done overnight. Although, in order to consistent and productive policy views you must have a vision of where you are going, a utopia to which base policy decisions as a path towards.

Whether it'd be the world where all needs are met through coercsion of production and wealth via socialism

Whether it'd be the world where strict value and genetic adherence create an efficient human race via facism

or even the coercion free world where people are free to pursuit their own ends and own their property, life, and actions of freedom minded people such as myself, Ron Paul, and everyone else in the movement.

We all have utopia, and it's this utopia that must exist in order to form policy for without a utopia policy becomes solely shortsighted and reactionary focusing solely on how to alleviate current problems which are usually just symptoms of larger more fundamental problems.

This is what the US has become, a household for reactionary policy

- the war on Iraq/Afghanistan, reaction to an event that is part of a bigger gap in US foreign policy

- The bailouts, addressing an instance of the business cycle which is the creation of the fundamental banking system which fosters it

- building a fence, a shallow attempt to address the burden created by mixture of managed trade, wage/price controls, and a welfare system

Only with a vision of a utopia can one be led to look at the foundation of a problem, for a reaction only exists in the now, only cares about the now. We need to return to a vision of utopia, no matter which utopia you choose at least in the end the debate of the fundamental US system will come back to life in doing so.

#149 - Hope for Non-Partisan Unity

2008-09-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

In the new writing by Ron Paul, he really highlights what made him standout in the crowd during this years elections. His focus not on what we disagree on which separates us, but on what we agree on which brings us together.

It's no secret that most Ron Paul supporters don't agree with Ron Paul on most issues, even disagree with him on very decisive issues such as abortion. In the end people supported him cause the common ground was stronger than he divisions which is why we saw people from all over the political spectrum embrace the movement.

This is my problem with Democrats and Republicans.

Republicans spend all day focusing on the differences with Democrats

Democrats spend all day focusing on the difference with Republicans

they spend so much time being decisive that they abandon issues and focus solely of differentiating themselves from each other in useless bickering/marketing. This is why seeing Ron Pauls press conference with Nader, Mckinney, and Chuck Baldwin was so important cause you had candidates from such different political philosophies uniting on common ground.

This is what reaching across the aisle for change really looks like, putting aside SUBSTANTIAL differences for advancements of SUBSTANTIAL similarities.

The system is setup to create stalemates in the areas of disagreement, but change can happen in the common ground if we focused on that instead. Don't let the system blind you from the potential of nation united.

(NOTE: I do realize Ron Paul has officially endorsed Chuck Baldwin, if you read between the lines it's all a strategic move to target the group who's been the hardest to involve in the movement, the evangelicals. Like them or not, a coalition must be formed for change which can only be formed on common ground. I'm in this to create change, not to play to the marketing of some party.)

#148 - More videos discussing economics

2008-09-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Alex Merced on Economics #7 - Supply & Demand side economics

Alex Merced on Economics #8 - A bit about the depression

#147 - How depressions/recessions get prolonged

2008-09-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

when credit runs loose, prices get artificially high, and there isn't enough saving to serve as a foundation for the corresponding economic adjustment.

The great depression, and the currenct economic crisis are economic adjustments similar to cup with too much water.

Let's say the cup is the economy and water is credit, if you pour too much water in the cup what happens?

It overflows, but for how long, until you let enough water spill out till it reaches a point where the cup can support the amount of water still left. Although if you keep pouring water in hopes of keeping the same level of water you had originally you just prolong the overflow.

The government is feeding more credit into the overextended economy with bailouts and price manipulation which only prolongs the inevitable and sets the stage for a monetary collapse.

Of coursge to learn all the technical details go to http://www.mises.org

Note: During the depression the new deal which manipulated wages and prices actually suppressed job creation instead of helping it, prolonging the depression. The depression ended in spite of the new deal, not cause of it. Also, Herbert Hoover did not cause the depression by being hands off the market, he also signed in plenty of legislation increasing tariffs and manipulating prices which help make the great depressions worse.

For more on this read the book "The Politically Incorrect Guide to Capitalism"

#146 - Financial Crisis in a very simplified nutshell

2008-09-18T03:22:00.000-07:00

The current economic crisis is beast created by irresponsible banking, and the governement that creates the environment that makes banks think they can get away with it. What is needed is not more regulation, but stripping away of some of the powers that are given to banks by government, which means less laws not more.First you need to learn a few things about the current system:

- Fractional Reserve: We have a fractional reserve system which allows banks to lend as much as they want as long as they have enough deposits to cover a certain % of it (currently 10%). If I had one buck and tried to lend somebody 10... I think someone would call BS on me.

- Securities: to be blunt, Stocks and Bonds- Derritives: Securities backed by other securities, the ones causing the problem specifically are CDO/CMO.

Summary of a CMO/CDO- money is lent out @ 6%- I then take those loans and create a bond backed by those loans @ 4%

Result: banks make a free 2% cause the money from the bonds pay the loans... but then those bonds can be repackaged into Variable Annutiies and Mutual Funds which can be repackaged into participating investments trusts etc.Eventually it gets repackaged so many times that when the oroiginal mortage is defaulted on (due to interest rate manipulation by our central bank, The Federal Reserve, boooo) all the securities derrived from this mortages are also defaulted.This creates a very strong interdependency among banks... so when one falls... you get a domino effect that has only begun.

In the system we should have, a 100% reserve system with NO CENTRAL BANK this wouldn't happen cause:

a) credit would tighten since banks have to have enough deposits to cover their loans, even though at first less loans seems like it constrict the economy. This is alright cause the loans lent out will be fairly secure, and the businesses funded will be sound so during tough economic crisis they will be able to survive instead of having massive job losses during economic downturns.

b) same as above, but this will also be in part due to market interest rates instead of it being dictated by the federal reserve with inflation, which would mean stronger currency and more sound business practices and bank.

it goe s alittle farther than that, but that's the gist.In general... things are pretty bad.

#145 - Denouncing "Liberal" and "Conservative"

2008-09-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

Today I denounce the old labels and old hats...

I was orginally self-labeled a liberal believing that it stood for peoples rights over their own lives, and individual responsbility over peoples own decisions and actions. Later on, I learned liberal had transformed into an ideaology of government welfare stealing personal responsibilty from individuals over their property, labor, and businesses labeling all those who descent selfish and greedy to guilt them into foregoing their rights.

I then briefly followed the label conservative thinking it was about the belief in personal responsibility and freedom over ones successes and failures, along with a conservation of those rights outlined by by the constituion. Again, this label had transformed itself into an ideology of sub-verting power over other nations and surveilling those who do not fall in line with the hierarchy.

So one would think I'd embrace a "libertarian" or "consitutionalist" title, but chaining myself to another smaller establishment would do no good or matter cause...

1. Liberty operates independant of the constitution, as much I love the constitution and the foresight of the founding father, if the nation fell tomrrow it would not mean I have lost my right to my will and freedom which is intrinsic in my very existance.

2. To be free of a label doesn't forgoe the reality that changing the system requires playing in the system. The challenge is not losing who you are and what your fighting for as you make your way through.

So in the end the truly free put on many hats as Lovers of Liberty, and Fighters for Freedom when it's time for change. Whether you call me a Liberty Lover or a Freedom Fighter, when the revolution comes around, you better call me.

#144 - Alex on Economics 3-6

2008-09-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

#143 - Thoughts on the Beauty of Liberty

2008-09-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

I sit in anticipation of Monday when Ron Paul will be having a joint press conference not only with libertarian candidate Bob Barr, but also with Constitution party candidate Chuck Baldwin. I'm not sure what this will be about but I'm sure Paul knows what he is doing.

It's funny to think about everything that has happened this year, and how much i've come to truly appreciate the beauty of freedom, liberty, and being an individual. These three things carry huge responsibility, but anything worth having usually does. There are those who don't want that responsibility or think other should have it and are hoping to place that responsibility eslewhere through dangerous policies and misguided principles.

Although, in a free world, you can wish to not be responsible for your own life but in the end you are cause your life is yours to live. The beauty of liberty is that you can speak against and hate liberty all you want, but liberty will always be available to you cause it truly comes from within, from the choices and actions you make. You can believe in socialism, protectionism, but in the end you are still free to make choices and actions and suffer the consequences.

Freedom isn't a gift, or a burden, it's the reality of being an individual and no amount of policies can truly enslave a true individual. On the same hand, no matter how much you reduce the scope of government, someone with collectivist mindset will still be no less free than before.

Liberty, Freedom, and Individuality is within you, and your for the taking. Take it.

#141 - Ron Paul at the Rally for the Republic

2008-09-04T03:05:00.000-07:00

Ron Paul is truly my hero and always hearing him talk always reminds me why I've dealt with the alienation from people on both sides who don't want to tolerate people who don't follow party lines. Wh I've lost many of my friends on the left and the right to choosing the constitution and freedom. I get it now, it's my responsibility to help in the fight for freedom and not become complacent to a binary opposition of state control.

- Alex Merced

Here is Ron Paul Speech @ The Rally for the Republic, a Shadow Convention held next door to the Republican National Convention

#141 - The Good News

2008-08-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hello,

As a Classic Liberal/Paleo-Conservative it was kind of a very inspiring year to see the momentum that Ron Paul has generated in the spreading of truly American ideals. While he was not able to win the primaries, there are many indicators in my opinion that show a new generation of electorate are gaining control, and the old guard of both parties are losing the influence they had.

- To me it was obvious the establishment of both parties wanted a Clinton/Giuliani battle come november, this was made obvious by the trail of special interest dollars and party influence. While there two candidates were able to keep the traditional voters on their side. It was two candidates who had the image of outside of the beltway who ended up winning primarily supported by non-traditional party voters.

- Biden/Mccain are washington veterans who have a history of overstepping party boundaries, and represent the reformers of old.

- Obama/Palin represent the new reform of their respective parties and will be the face and voices of their parties to the next generation of US politics that this election is signaling.

- The Palin VP pick to me is a concession by the RNC that they'll need traditional conservatives and libertarians to have a chance in November.

- The growing momentum of Ron Paul Campaign for Liberty shows that while we did not win this year, the signs above that signal a new openess to ideas by the electorate is alive and we are capitalizing on it for future success.

This is a new era, the country is passing the baton to a new generation. The policies and direction this new generation decides begins this november, and either choice will result in more government intervention. Although if we continue to fight to educate and chage the way people thing the government structure will change along with those ideas.

So educate, learn, and be free

#140 - Alex Talks about Currency

2008-08-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Economics # 2 - Currency from Alex Merced on Vimeo.

#139 - Alex on Economics #1: Supply and Demand

2008-08-27T02:52:00.000-07:00

Economics # 1 - Supply and Demand from Alex Merced on Vimeo.

#138 - Appreciating the Phenomenon

2008-08-07T02:41:00.000-07:00

Everyday I hear some baseless optimism that Obama is gonna change things for the better. Of course, Policy wise for the most part I feel that this is not that case since we're in store for the same deficit keynsian policies that Bush set forth. Though I don't think Mccain is all that better an alternative.

Although there is a greater trend here we should be optimistic about, that is signaled by Obamas nomination and the cult status he and Ron Paul have been able to achieve this election season. They represent a generational passing of the torch, a generation open to change and new ideas, while this season they fell pray to an image touting new ideas, many did look into the depth of the actual alternative Ron Paul presented.

Still, despite another establishment election, there is much symbolism to be optimistic about.

#137 - Mind Altering

2008-08-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

Wow Guys,

So the video below is an appearance by Ron Paul in a segment about giving drug regulation back to the states. As usual Ron Paul makes the clear point that state rights need to be respected, and that federal regulation of medical problems create unwanted blowback (i.e. underground drug market, burden of holding prisoners, etc.). Where it really grabs my attention is when the lady after Ron Paul saids some realllllly off the wall stuff which I'd like to address.

First off, she saids you can't compare Marijuana to alcohol cause Marijuana is mind altering drug....

(disclaimer: outside of undergraduate experimentation, I don't smoke and VERY seldom drink)

I can never say that I've blacked out on pot, or not been able to remember what I did the day prior, but on alcohol this has happened to me once or twice. So implying that alcohol is not a mind altering drug makes this lady lose a lot of credibility with me right there.

Then she sites some statistics of places where Pot was made legal and drug use went up...

Ok, I got two responses to this.

1) When something prohibited is no longer prohibited be sure that you'll see a short term increase in use, cause those used to the old law will react. It's like the release of a new product, it initially see big sales which taper off as the novelty wares. Same thing happened after prohibition was overturned.

2) as far the increase in heroine use she sited, remember when you legalize a drug you steal it away from the underground market. The underground market isn't going to sit idly and take the loss, they will begin to push a new product so this statistics makes sense to me since I would figure the drug dealers would need to peddle different drugs if pot is no longer illegal.

This is why, the war on drugs doesn't work, and making any of these drugs illegal only results in increased underground pressure and crime. Make them all legal and there is nothing the underground syndicates can fall back on. Sure, doesn't mean states can't regulate the use of the drugs, but I think the world would be better off with state regulated legal use where users can purchase from safe places at lower prices.

#136 - The Bottom Line about Government

2008-07-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

The Bottom Line:

The role of the Constitution: to restrain Government from acting beyond it'd defined role in the constitution to ensure individual liberty

The role of the Government: to protect sovereignty and liberty of the nation, that's it, nothing about welfare nationally or internationally.

Why? Cause long as you have freedom over your property and life, you may not have the life you want or you may have more than others, but you'll have the freedom to decide where you end up even if the path there isn't the same or as easy for everyone, at least it exists.

#135 - Revolutionaries join the Alex Merced network

2008-07-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I feel honored that two of my favorite revolutionaries has joined my social network, The Alex Merced Community. Trevor Lyman of ThisNovember5th and Break The Matrix fame and Eric Nordstrom of RonPaulMoneyBomb and Pyrabang.com fame, these two individual were pivotal figures in the huge fund raising figures of Ron Paul during the primaries and I'm honored to have them join my network.

So please join Pyrabang, Break The Matrix, and Freeople.com

and if you not to exhausted after than join the Alex Merced Community and add Eric Nordstrom or Trevor Lyman as a friend.

- Alex

#134 - Funding the Arts

2008-07-09T06:06:00.000-07:00

I was watching recent edition of MobLogic with Lyndsay Campbell one of my favorite podcasts despite the differing views on some issues between me and the show. Basically it talked about how Bill Clinton cut funding by half to the NEA and was asking people on the street how they felt.

While I agree creativity is a priority in the development of the individual and it's our individual responsibility to cultivate that in our communities. If you constantly ask why the government isn't doing more you ask the wrong question and delay the solution which is well, let vested individuals take care of the problem and educate on the virtue of the cause. Thing only get fixed if people care about it, and no policy can force people to care only education and reason can. No one said it was easy.

While it's my job to improve the world around, the government does have a role in protecting my freedom to enact that responsibility whether it be by defense of our sovereignty or even protecting my personal property. While I guess we can say big brother hasn't been doing a good job of either with our atrocious foreign policy and tax laws.

In the case of the arts an appropriate government policy would be to create tax shelter incentives for investing in the arts. Not just merely a tax write off for your donations, but even a multiplier to that donation so that people get to keep more of their earnings for giving back. Basically if I donate 2k, I get a 4k write off and it's incentive.

Although while incentives might be able to stimulate more funds in that direction, the underlying ethical issues of taxation still mean we must phase out the income tax which makes a tax shelter a temporary fix.

In the end the ability communicate and inspire is the only to truly mobilize change. Policy is never an ends.

#133 - Freeople.com & BreaktheMatrix.com

2008-07-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

Freeople.com, which is a social network by Ron Shimrock has finally gone live. It was near the beginning of the year when Ron asked me to film a short promotional video for the site and now the site is finally here and it has a lot of great features.

http://www.freeople.com/users/alexmerced

that's my profile so make sure to add me. There is no reason to be choosing either BreaktheMatrix.com, Trevor Lymans social media effort or Freeople.com they both offer different features and are great networks to be part of so I urge you to join both of them. Of course, I still run the Liberty Independence Alliance if you want to join that as well. You can never be too connected.

#132 - Who to vote for in November?

2008-06-21T17:47:00.000-07:00

Ok,

I've talked to many people wondering who they should vote for in November since they can't get behind Mccain or Obama. This leaves 4 choices Mccinkey, Nader on the left, and Baldwin,Barr on the right.

First off, if you think Obama and Mccain are big government politicans, Mcckiney and Nader really take the cake. First off course they want a single payer healthcare plan, a carbon tax, plus think it's possible to truly regulate speculation of market prices.

This is what truly annoyed, speculation and it's effects on the market are function of human behavior and if you want to reduce it you need educated investors not representatives tied to a leash of extreme liability. Regulation kills the informed investor cause they become less informed cause it's regulated and they'll be fine, Uncle Sam is watching the details for them. As a securities law instructor it get's pretty frustrating.

It's funny how evolution is such a big issue on the left, yet they are not willing to natural selection occur for the human species and let nature take it's course opting for welfare programs and debt.

Now on the right we got Chuck Baldwin who I think just by virtue of being Christian minister is too polarizing a figure to truly built the coalition needed to make a statement about the liberty platform in November.

This is why I think the Barr/Root ticket is the best vehicle to unite and demonstrate our numbers, I trust Barr but it's not about him, he may do well but he's not going to win. It's about having a solid number to demonstrate to the establishment that we are growing and organizing.

They know there's a lot of us, but if we can't stay organized, we're no threat, and no concern.

#131 - Luxury Prices Down... IT'S A BAD THING

2008-06-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I hate economists and how they manipulate the numbers reality. I was listening to PBS Nightly Business Report and they had an economist arguing that the Core inflation rate (inflation - Gas/Food) isn't that bad cause prices of clothes and cars are going down. This is a utter distortion of the price changes going on in the economy. Here are the correct implications of what's going.

Gas/Food Prices go up - This is a bad thing, cause when the necessities of a nation go up in price it limits the discretionary spending which quickly kills a lot of businesses.

Clothes/Car Prices go down - This is a bad thing cause it reflects the drop in demand due to increasing prices in necessities.

Still, Core Inflation isn't a useless indicator since you can pinpoint the source of inflation by comparing to true inflation. If Core inflation shows that the bulk of inflation was in consumer products that would be a good indicator of a growing economy but when the bulk of inflation is in commodities/neccessities then your looking at price changes that hurt peoples baseline standard of living.

Prices change, but I guess it's more important to understand which prices changed and why, yet core inflation is increasingly becoming a tool to breed false optimism about the economy.

#130 - Ron Pauls Ends Historic Run for President

2008-06-13T02:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

Last night was really the end of something special, but Ron Pauls presidential campaign has bowed out with grace and left something much greater in it's wake. After the ashes has settled and the sun has risen what we're still left with is a strong fertile seed of political enlightenment stretching across the USA and the world. Who knows is this seed has bloomed in time to save this nation, but it's arrived in time to give the world a second chance to embrace again what has given us our greatest moments, individualism.

Ron Paul is to now go on and continue to champion the philosophies and principles he has championed since who knows how long. Many have been inspired and aspire to places of concentrated power to dilute that power and return it to the people. No meaningful policy/behavioral change can happen without first a sincere appeal to the hearts and minds of the individual and this year presidential race has been one that has captured the imagination and return to it the hope of an American dream.

Thank you Ron Paul, and Welcome Back America

The path now is clear

- Continue to educate people on Non-Interventionism, Monetary Policy, Individualism, and the virtue of personal responsibility

- Support all our brothers in arms running for local seats of office

- Shock the establishment with one of the best Libertarian showings in the presidential race ever and vote for Bob Barr.

Whether your a Barr fan or not, at this point it's about showing the establishment that we will only keep the two party fisade for so long, and will hold them accountable for the destruction of collectivist policy.

No more idealogical compromises, no more partisan fractures,
Just Freedom, Just Liberty

#129 - The Bottom Line about Economics

2008-06-12T19:54:00.001-07:00

The Bottom Line is:

Economic activity is a result of resource allocation by individuals which is a function of human nature, which like all natural things has equilibrium a sort of natural order. Like an ecosystem, everything is there and happens for a reason to keep this equilibrium in place, and any manipulation in either direction creates a need for an adjustment.

An ecosystem is made up of many creatures which interact in a way that keeps a natural order and balance, remove the tigers to protect the dears, the natural order is disturbed and adjustments occur which usually result in worse consequences.

So the health of the economy is related to the health of natural order of human behavior, so when you manipulate human allocation of resources to either accelerate or de-accelarate resource consumption you create unnecessary adjustments for short term gain which is NOT COOL.

In my best Chris Crocker Impression

LEAVE THE ECONOMY ALONE!!!

#128 - TEDtalks

2008-06-12T03:15:00.000-07:00

I recently subscribed to the TEDtalks video podcast, one of many podcasts to round out my daily intellectual intake. Overall I really like the TEDtalk series of talks cause they present interesting ideas despite the idea they usually tend to be collectivist and I usally disagree with the main premise.

Particulary was a talk by Paul Collier where he talked about the Global responsibility to help the bottom 1 billion. While I do believe there is an individual responsibility to help others, like any other responsibility it's up tot he individual to volunteer to act on that responsibility and face the consequences of his decision and this was my major gripe with Collier.

Here said there are three steps to solving this problem, Governance, Trade, and AID. I agree with him for the most part on trade in the sense that dismantling protectionist trade policies do create prosperity for all those involved. No tariffs, subsidies, trade restrictions, etc is always a good step towards having a good global market.

Although I completly disagree with the idea governance is key to do any of this global work cause well, it violates and individuals decision to act on their responsibilities. While I would love that every volunteered to help others live better lives, it would be undermine fighting for freedom if I forced people into a responsibility with a mandate or a tax. Of course taxes and mandates have a habit of habit of forcing people into that bottom billion instead of bringing them up from it, which I've talked about plenty in earlier posts.

The alst part is AID, AID is again not bad if it's voluntary cause then you get into ethical issues of people being forced to invest in causes they are against, etc. It'd be just as hypocritical to force a christian to pay a tax to federally fund abortions as it is to tax an educated person to fund abstinence only sex education. If it's not part of the persons agenda, they shouldn't be forced to fund it and that's the problem with government and AID.

This tends to be similar to my complaint about most TEDtalks, but still very stimulating talks that I enjoy.

#127 - And the elections roll on...

2008-06-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

A year ago we all though it would be a Clinton vs. Giuliani election, while I'm not exactly spiffy on the current crop of candidates I sure am happy Clinton and Giuliani didn't make the cut. So let's take a look at Current candidates for sure.

Barack Obama - Democrat - While I disagree with Obama on many issues, I do believe in his sincerity but while an honest guy is nice, what the country needs is a philosophical shift so I won't be voting for Obama, but I think at this point it's safe to say he's our next president. I can't get behind anybody who doesn't understand the 10th amendment. His likeability pretty much kills an impression for Nader and the Green Party on the polls.

John Mccain - Republican - Again an honest guy, but not only do I disagree with Mccain, but I think on most issues he's damaging and out of touch than an Obama. Mccain views on an arrogant foreign policy alone is reason enough not to vote for him. The fracture of having such a moderate candidate as their nominee will give much more relevance to Bob Barr and the Libertarian party in this election.

Bob Barr - Libertarian - I definetley agree with him on most issues, while is saddens me that Monetary policy isn't really part of his platform when it's probably the single most important issue. Although a strong Bob Barr showing would signal and give some more momentum to a national philosophy based on individualism instead of the Collectivism that infests Mccain and Obama.

Ralph Nader - Independant - Once again running as an indpendant I think Obamas "cult" status just about renders Nader and whoever results as the green party nominee pretty obsolete in this election.

I think I'm comfortable saying Chuck Baldwin will win the Constitionalist Nod, and Cynthia Mckiney for the Green Party. We'll see if anyone gets added to roster.

#126 - Bob Barr wins Nomination

2008-05-26T06:13:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody,

Bob Barr is officially the Libertarian Nominee for president. People have had many criticisms of Bob Barr and his vote for the patriot act and his former support of the drug war. I do believe the guy has changes sincerely for the better and is probably the best viable option for a general election vote.

To be fair, have you ever changed your thoughts on policy, how many of us were collectivists of some sort before Ron Paul, or if your older, Barry Goldwater showed you an alternative? Bob Barr made his mistakes but his his pros in his career definetley outweigh the cons and our other options.

Bottom Line: He's no Ron Paul, but who is? I don't think we can look to even those within our ranks who are running for office and say anyone has had as much integrity and focus as the life of Ron Paul.

Again, let's not lose sight of what the goal is here, not to have society of perfect never been wrong liberty minded elitist but to actually strive to change the heart and minds of the nation and effect policy in way that fixes fundamental questions such as:

- The role of government the manipulation of economics forces

- the role of government in the internal affairs of others nations

- The role of government in peoples personal behavior

- The role of Government in peoples personal property

this is the focus of this entire movement, let's not lose sight of our ability to consolidate and follow a point. I will always listen to what Ron Paul has to say cause I trust him, but I can trust Barr enough to vote for him in the general election.

While I plan to continue on in the reforming the republican party, for the general election I will endorse Bob Barr as fairly better choice than what we've had even in a libertarian candidate since well... Ron Paul.

- Alex Merced

#125 - Laying the Groundwork

2008-05-25T17:11:00.001-07:00

Hey Everybody,

(NOTE: Before you read this go open up an account at http://www.ning.com, you'll see why in a sec)

Everyone agrees the 2008 has only marked the revitalization of the American revolution from collectivism and big government started way back in 1776. We all also agree further groundwork must be formed whether you feel the Republican, Libertarian, or Constitutional Party is you vehicle of choice (For the few proud Ron Paul democrats, we'll add the democratic party to the list). SO here's some advice in laying the groundwork.

- The most obvious is getting involved in your local party clubs in your locality and applying the small government principles in your local community. If you show these principles at work on a local level it'll be easier to get more and more people behind you.

- Creating online portals for your local community, not just those that believe in the cause but the whole community in general, it'll give you an easy way to communicate to your community in the future.

(Note: This is why you should sign up for ning account, you can create your own social network for your town or county, pass out flyers to the local community and promote it as way for the community to promote commerce and events. When all is said and done you'll have mailing list of the entire community at your finger tips.)

- Since you have a Ning account you should join the Liberty Social network, Liberty Independence Alliance, as a place to huddle and plan with your fellow revolutionaries.

- In general be part of your community, gaining influence is not all about knowing everything about the issues, it's about being someone people care about and respect, so go out get involved in the local fair, school board, parks and recreation. Otherwise, you'll be brushed off as idealistic outsider who alienates himself from the community.

- BE REASONABLE, don't be calling other peoples candidates fascists and socialists and attacking their character, a well educated policy critique will get a much better response than an attack.

This Laundry list should help everyone lay the groundwork as the revolution grow and bubbles up from the depths. No matter what party your in, these tactics will help you make other more perceptive to policy and liberty. As long a voter understand the policy, we will eventually win.

#124 - Immigration In Depth

2008-05-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

I feel Immigration is one of the most mis-understood issues on both sides so I thought I'd take some time out to explain the issue in depth. If you strip all the politics and leave only the harsh cold reality we quickly realize there are truly two victims who due to politics have been forced to fight against each other when in all reality they are both the victims of failed and unconstitutional policy and intervention.

Let's explore these victims and how big government has created this conflict.

Victim # 1 - Illegal Immigrants - In order to change a behavior you must understand why the behavior exists and change the why to encourage the desired behavior (legal immigration). So first let's explore why Illegal Immigrants would want to come to the US. Of course, the obvious reason would be for a better life.

(NOTE: I do realize some people have criminal backgrounds and come to escape the law, they of course should be held accountable to the laws of the country in which they committed the crime so let's address the larger issue then get hung up on exceptions)

Why is it so hard for these people to attain a better life in their country of origin? There is a laundry list of reasons but let's explore the ones that directly involve our government.

- Food Subsidies: by manipulating the market with farm subsidies foreign agriculture (sometimes the only real industry in the nation) is rendered uncompetitive in the US market. When the US GDP equals most if not all other countries combined it becomes obvious how a level un-manipulated playing field is important giving individuals the ability to provide for themselves no matter what origin.

- NAFTA: Free trade can't be mandated, it's an absence of mandates. NAFTA falsely under the name of free trade manages trade among the countries involved limiting the growth in certain areas. Any growth in these nations since, didn't occur cause of NAFTA, but in spite of NAFTA.

- Foreign Policy: When you refuse to trade with countries like Venezuela and Cuba, you do not hurt the the oppressive regime but give them reason to take more from the innocent citizens of the nation who already are being oppressed enough. By allowing the citizens of that nation to be able trade in the US market they can do better for themselves and not have to leave their nation of origin due to a ceiling of living standards.

(NOTE: by policy such as NAFTA and Embargo's limiting foreign trade we actually decrease competition in the market which increased prices and decreases quality.)

Victim #2 - US Taxpayer - the more stress you put on the US government, the more stress the government puts on the taxpayer which in turn puts more stress on the government in a vicious cycle. So while the US's protectionist involvement in subsidies and NAFTA hurt ours ability to get our bang for our buck and devastates foreign economies, the Taxpayer is then forced subsidize illegal behavior through government benefits to illegal immigrants. It's reasonable that a taxpayer would be upset when the amount of their heard earned money being stolen from them increases and it goes to someone who has violated the law, it's very reasonable sentiment cause of government tax and welfare policy.

(NOTE: the issue isn't should the government take care of illegal immigrants or not, the issue is should government provide such a benefits to anyone when the bill is being footed by the taxpayer unwillingly, it's an issue of the welfare state in general that reaches into the immigration dynamics.)

So essentially, both victims of circumstances created by international bodies but instead of working together to fix the protectionist and interventionist policies that victimize them, they have been pitted against each other in a political battle that either call for more protectionism or more interventionism depending on which side you align yourself with.

I choose neither, no issue can be solved by protectionism or by interventionism, but only by freedom of individuals to trade freely and provide for themselves wherever they are. This is the solution, this is what we are working towards, true free trade free from government manipulation on an international scale.

#123 - OSHO and Individualism

2008-05-17T16:15:00.000-07:00

Since I have a high interest in individualism and the philosophy around it I picked up "Freedom" by OSHO. This is quite an interesting read. The entire premise of OSHO writings is that the only way to be free is to become an individual is a state of understanding the greater responsibility of your individuality and acting upon on it yourself. He also rallies against all forms of collectivism such as the state, religion, etc and his arguments are fairly strong.

For the most part aside from his staunch disdain for religion and any type of organized belief structure, and one paragraph where he seemed to advocate non-state funded communal health care a lot of what OSHO saids reminds me of what Ron Paul philosophically saids except Pauls economics arguments are much more sound and is a little less judgmental of those who do buy into the system (OSHO is not so forgiving).

I mean reading is always a good thing, but I think i'd recommend this as a pretty good reading on individualism, there are some points where i disagree with OSHO but his overall premise and arguments are important ones written in a way I think is important enough to recommend.

So make sure to put a copy of OSHO's "Freedom" next to your copy of Ron Pauls "Revolution: A manifesto".

#122 - Congess Hoarding Oil?

2008-05-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

As you know I try to keep up with whats going on, and today I find out congress has recently voted on a resolution to stop hoarding oil... then my jaw dropped. This means this whole time the government has been using our tax dollars hoarding oil manipulating the oil supply, effecting the prices. So we can pay our taxes so they can raise prices, and then pay more taxes on the higher price.

Are you starting to see why I have a problem with government intervention in the supply and demand of resources.

Now they keep talking about the benefit of a tax holiday, how about getting rid of the tax altogether? How about we stop using our tax dollars to have our troops protect oil drilling around the world so these oil companies don't have to pay for their own security? How about we stop subsidizing corn which detracts R&D dollars from more viable alternative fuels and pushes food prices up?

Worried about Fuel Prices? Then stop asking how the government can help, and start asking how you can get them out your business so nature can takes it's course.

What does that mean?

Oil Prices rising at a natural rate due to NORMAL market pressures (not those created by government manipulation) will force the development and wide scale of adoption of alternative transportation and fuels.

This is nature and the free market at work, a TRULY free market is nature at work.

#121 - Economic Indicators

2008-05-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

So the word is un-employment has gone down 1% to 4% yet Unemployment claims are still going up. Aside from the obvious margin of error critiques, there are some reasonable explanations for this despite the harsh economic conditions we are facing. My favorite explanation is that the reason for the drop in unemployment is that people are taking part-time jobs which make sense. How about we look at economic data which can be found here and what trends we can find from the last few months to paint a clearer picture.

Let's focus on some direct inflationary numbers, prices.

--------------------------------
Producer Prices

The producer price index for all finished goods rose 0.3 percent in
February. Prices of finished consumer foods fell 0.5 percent, while
prices of other finished consumer goods rose 0.7 percent. Capital

equipment prices rose 0.5 percent
--------------------------------
CONSUMER PRICES--ALL URBAN CONSUMERS

In February, the consumer price index for all urban consumers was
unchanged seasonally adjusted; it rose 0.3 percent not seasonally
adjusted. The index was 4.0 percent above its year-earlier level.
--------------------------------
PRICES RECEIVED AND PAID BY FARMERS

In March, prices received by farmers rose 2.0 percent; prices paid by
farmers rose 1.7 percent. (Data are not seasonally adjusted.)
--------------------------------


Let's put these numbers into perspective by assuming that we see a similar change in each of the next 12 months.

Estimate Numbers for the Year
Producer Prices =  3.6%
PRICES RECEIVED AND PAID BY FARMERS = 24%, 20.4%

Imagine food prices went up 24% by the end of the year, doesn't really matter what the CPI saids, your gonna be hurting unless you get a big raise or adjust your lifestyle. Just something to think about when evaluating your government.

#120 - Homoesexuality and Biology

2008-05-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

As much as I consider myself a conservative, peoples adverse opinions against homosexuality make no sense to me so I'm going to address my opinions and thoughts on this issue since it can be one the biggest political distractions used by parties to to distract from real issues like monetary and foreign policy.

One of the most bizarre arguments we hear is the argument of the biological imperative for the survival of a species. The idea that a species behavior can be molded by it's survival instinct makes sense to me, but a species survival is not only Dependant on an increasing population. A species can be over populated and consume it's resources to fast causing the fall of the species as we see when predators go extinct in an eco-system and it's prey suddenly goes through a population boom.

So if over-population is just as much a problem as underpopulation it would make sense that the biological imperative of the species could change to keep the population growth under control. One way this could be is to see an increase in homosexuality, similar things have been seen in other species where animals change genders or sexual preference due to biological necessities (it was major plot point in Jurassic Park). So the point being, if what's important is the survival of the species, homosexuality can be just as good for the survival as the species as heterosexuality, it's all about the species finding a balance.

Although this gives the rise to a new question? Cause something MIGHT effect the birthrate should it be considered unethical behavior. Most nations don't have lack of people, the only nation that has forecasted shortage of people for employment due to declining birthrate is Japan. The situation in Japan has nothing to really due with sexuality but more with the amount of productivity that most couples focus on careers instead of building families.

So if productivity is effecting the birth rate, should this now be names an "un-natural" behavior? The point in all this is that homosexuality really in the end is a stupid issue cause liberty and freedom let's people live their lives how they wish. It's about the individual, and if you start arguing about the ethics of someones actions based on how it effects the whole you are falling into the collectivist traps that have made the government become so big with entitlement programs and a bloated foreign policy.

So you may have your opinions on this issue, but please don't let this distract you from the real issues effecting every individual in this nation, things like Monetary policy and Foreign Policy, other dangers spun from the collectivist cooking pot.

#119 - Books, Inflation, Liberty OH MY!

2008-05-03T17:42:00.000-07:00

(NOTE: Don't forget guys to join my Liberty Minded Social Network, Liberty Independence Alliance, and help organize the movement and enjoy Liberty Minded Media)

Hey Guys,

I've bought 6 copies so far of Ron Pauls new book "Revolution: A Manifesto" 4 of them I had signed one which went to myself, two of which went to my strongest co-paul supporters, my Mom and Brother. The 4th copy I'm giving to a former teacher, who's a constant source and wisdom and wit, and overall probably one of my favorite people, EVER. I gave one unsigned copy to my other brother, I came across another copy leaving me with two unsigned copies I'm arranging for people to borrow and read. The book itself is now #1 on Amazon.com's best sellers and #7 on the New York times best seller list.

Food Shortage Scares, increasing numbers in unemployment claims, and more signs that the economy is in bad shape, and as the multi-billion dollar cash injections trickle down inflation will only get worse. I listen to the PBS nightly business report everyday which has a variety of analyst and guests covering a lot of what's going on. Today I hear him dismiss inflation scares as too much credit being given to the US in price setting... here are some things to think about.

- The Dollar is the reserve currency of many countries, meaning the value of their currency has a DIRECT relation to US dollars in that countries reserve so when the US dilutes the dollar it dilutes the currency of many typically third world nations that already can't afford many things we take forgranted.

- US GDP dwarfs it's closest competitors cause it consumes a very large percentage of goods produced globally... so yes, the demand coming from the us is a force powerful enough to set prices.

- Inflation creates perceived food shortages, if your poor and you see the price of rice go up every week, be sure you will buy a lot this week to hedge yourself against next weeks price increase. This phantom demand created by government manipulation of prices creates such shortages.

As I always emphasize the reality of Liberties relation to Economics. So why we can all agree that theoretically what Liberty is, in a practical sense Liberty can only be exercised equal to your ability to meet fixed costs, (same logic as to why a factory would stay open despite making less than variable costs but more than fixed). Now this idea isn't new or is different, people on both sides understand this issue.

The left feels government is responsible for guaranteeing this level economic stability which we see now and have seen in the past over and over again it can't do. While traditionally conservative principles will say if you don't interfere people will develop in a more self-sufficient way, and isn't freedom the ability to depend on yourself, not the government.

Essentially the point I'm trying to make, not in my most eloquent is that the governments manipulation of the markets have only undermined liberty and the average persons ability to survive. The government has become to big that the only way to dismantle it is from within which is why we must all get involved in any we can to break the clutter wherever it may exist.

#118 - Revolution: A Manifesto

2008-04-27T07:25:00.000-07:00

Hey,

I've bought three copies of Revolution: A Manifesto, one for me and two for gifts. I recommend buying as many copies as you can and giving them away, this book really does nail on the head all the issues and the logic behind them all.

I'm about 3/4 through this book and am amazed how Ron Paul succinctly tears apart the status quo with ease with common sense and a rugged regard for individualism. I'm not sure how else to really drive the point home other than, just read this book. Tell other to read this book,don't argue about who they should vote for just have them read the book.

- Alex Merced

#117 - Beating the Inflation Monster

2008-04-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

I think Jubak explains really well some of the inflation issues in this segment. What I love about Austrian Economics is that aside from trying to come up with the most efficient and stable economic theory like any economic school, it also factors Liberty and it's relation economic policy.

What it ends up boiling down to

- Liberty is intrinsically tied to the citizens ability maintain a standard of life in which they can exercise their Liberty
- Economics is intrinsically tied to Liberty in the sense that freedom to enter the market create the competition that creates the innovation that enable the market to expand and see Economics growth

So if one falls the other does to, and if one is improved so does the other as well. So when inflation is beating away at your purchasing power whether it be cause of increased foreign demand (which is a natural effect of a free market) or cause of artificially increased money supply (an unnatural source of inflation)

Some products will go up in price do to free market forces of supply and demand, which is natural and also naturally the market will adjust to it. Although, when other factors cause purchasing power to decrease faster the market can naturally adjust you'll see adverse reactions which is the current state of the US economy so wonderfully exhibits.

Despite what's going on in the nation economically and politically you can still protect your own personal liberty and standard of life through investments that can beat real inflation numbers. As Jubak pointed out, taking Food and Energy prices into account in current CPI methodology you see a current inflation of 4%.

So basically, by the end of the year that $20 bill in your pocket will have purchasing power of 19.20. If your rich you probably have enough foreign investments that your wealth can stealthily maneuver current US dollar declines but if...

- If you live paycheck to paycheck unless you get a 4% raise a year, your actually see purchasing power decrease in wages which will effect you ability to save maintain the same standard of life you have.

- If your near retirement and your nest egg is seeing anything less than 4% increase each year, your retirement is shrinking.

As Jubak pointed out, due to the focus on the Core rate of inflation by most institution which don't consider Food and Energy prices Treasuries, savings accounts, are guaranteed loss of your money. You'd actually realize more yield from spending you money right now.

So this leaves the equity market (stocks) despite what you hear int he news as the best place to beat inflation. Whether you have a Stock Broker (which I will be in a week :)) guide you in buying growth stocks to see value grow or into dividend yielding stocks to gain income, Equities is your best bet of preserving your liberty and fighting the inflation beast.

Protect your liberty now, it'll help you fight for it tomrrow.

#116 - Ron Paul Schools General Petreus

2008-04-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody,

It's been a long while since I've been aggressively posting, and next Thursday I finally take my series 7 and once that's over I'll have the time to throw my hat back in. Despite my post-graduation struggle has temporarily sidelined me, the revolution has continued strong and I thought I'd quickly go over a few things. First off as far as what I've always done some reminders:

- LibertyWarChest.com is still throwing fundraisers on the 14th of every month for Ron Paul LibertyPAC join the list and keep informed on these fund raisers!

- MercedForFreedom.com will see some updates soon

- Liberty Independence Alliance still seems to be currently the only active social network for those with the libertarian/paleo-conservative views so please do join and participate in the featured discussions.

- Of course this blog will continue to discuss the philosophy and issues surrounding our liberty :)

-Alex Merced

#115 - Some Currency Thoughts

2008-03-15T07:11:00.000-07:00

In perspective, do I feel a FIAT currency is completely unethical and bad for the economy, not entirely. We live in a free world which is why I think a Hayekian attempt at establishing competing domestic currencies would be a good thing. Thought I think it's unethical to have a FIAT currency backed by a government, cause then the effects of liquidity and most economic crisis's fall much harder on taxpayers than back in the pre-Depression gold standard days.

If I were to shape US monetary policy the US dollar would have some solid tie to gold (read A) for value and would have fairly constant level of supply instead of printing or removing dollars from circulation through government policy. There would be no federal reserve, although since there would be competing currencies if the Banks wanted to band together and form a third-party Fed like bank with their own FIAT currency, they'd be free to do so. Many other currencies would pop up and many of them will fall similar to when Paypal was competing many other similar internet payment methods and currencies. Eventually the consumer will choose the currency with the most purchasing power and the banks will choose the currency that offers the most on demand liquidity.

At this point I think we'd see banks dealing in two currencies which gives them the ability to deal with a strong US dollar but be the backers of their own FIAT money supply for their liquidity crisis's without footing the bill of minting and inflation to the US taxpayer. Plus this helps many of the other global currencies which are backed by US dollars.

It's true that there would probably be a lot of failed currencies that hurt a lot of people on the way to the market finding it's way to this point, but that's what always happens when new is in effect.

(A) One way you can tie the dollar to gold without having an all out gold standard would be to set target values, like keeping gold between 500-600. Then manipulating liquidity of the US dollarto that target but then this would essentially be the same kinda manipulation with a different goal that the Fed is doing now, but the dollar would remain fairly stable.

Probably just going back to silver/gold standard would be best for the US dollar AFTER competing currencies has established their third party FIAT currency of choice.

#114 - Beautiful Thoughts

2008-03-02T18:13:00.001-08:00

If you haven't already, go listen to some of my audio broadcasts

My newest one is about Beautiful Thoughts, basically an expansion on Platos ideas beauty, truth, and knowledge. The reason I did this topic despite being a political blog is because of what Ron Paul is constantly trying to say. That we can't view all these issues in a box separate from other issues, cause they are all inter-related and in takes a world view with a large breadth to truly appreciate and understand the complexities of these issues. Also I go to basically say the larger the world view the more your ability to appreciate everything in general, knowledge will increase your ability to see beauty.

#113 - Old issues in New Eyes

2008-02-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

I always understood the general economic concepts that cements the Free Market/Liberty relationship. Now training to be a stock broker @ E1 Asset Management it's pretty good to have a teacher who's a fan of Ron Paul, and seems to be on the same page with me as far as economic principles and studying for the S7 has put things more into perspective than ever before.

Having a much clearer grasp on how the markets work and their relation to true economic activity and health has given me a crisp perspective when watching people talk about what's going on in the global and local economy. Now, more than ever do I believe a lot of these pro-fed talkers on CNBC are either brain dead or are in denial of economic realities.

On Kudlow and Company today I saw someone try to argue inflation as good for the economy cause it keeps prices from rising due to loss of purchasing power. My jaw hit the floor when I heard this, afterwards another commentator said America will be able to afford luxury items as long as the Fed keeps lower interesting rates and printing dollars to meet the demand... at this point my jaw dropped to the floor ripped off my skull.

So first let's explore the first statement and break it down:

"Inflation is good for the economy"

First off a weaker dollar hurts everyone. Here's How:

-Prices on food, gas another necessities go up while wages lose purchasing power faster than they rise.

- This decreases the labor supply for many small companies that can't afford to increase their wages to keep up with increase need for higher wages to keep the same standard of living, in the meanwhile their purchasing power is dropping with their productivity.

- imports increase in cost, increasing the cost of a lot of electronics, and the cost of materials used to make domestic goods in effect increasing domestic prices further.

- The increased purchasing power of other nations creates higher levels of ownership of the US economy by foreign nations, which will in the long term effect US sovereignty.

etc. etc. etc.

But the statement in question has another section that deserves scrutiny.

"the decreased purchasing power pushes luxury prices down"

To Be fair, this statement is partly correct but the implication of this reality isn't something to be optimistic about. The way this happens is that since a persons ability to afford necessities becomes so tight that many have to forgo luxury items, so things like IPODs and Guitars would have either drop prices to even out demand or increase the prices and charge a premium to the elite few who have the discretionary funds to buy these items.

So what does this mean?

- Gas and Good prices have gone up so they have to cut spending on leisure, this is not a good economic indicator for anyone unless your planning to sell Apple. Luckily, there is the Chinese market.

- With less demand for these kind of items you'll see less variety, which will result in less innovation from competitive pressure which slows the progress of society.

Now to go on to the second statement...

"The economy will be fine if the Federal Reserve continues to print money and lower interest rates"

No and No

Against Printing Cash:

When you have more of something, it becomes worth less thus the law of supply and demand. More money means it'll be worth less, and you have the economic effects above. This primarily effects the middle class and below who's economic world is primarily domestic. More wealthy people are suffering losses in their investments in the housing sector and many luxury items may hurt in the long term if this continues but at least these people usually have safety nets of foreign investments that are in some places less volatile than the US currently.

Against Lower Interest Rates:

I'm not against interest rates going down or up, but the federal reserve does this by manipulating the money supply which is essentially shifting the value of peoples assets in an indirect re-distribution of the nations wealth which is ridiculously immoral no matter which way you shift the interest rate.

Like if you and I both had a glass but yours was filled with water so I poured half of your water in my glass, while I didn't take your glass I did steal half the value from your glass. This is the effect of lower interest rates artificially.

Or if 10 people had glasses 1/10th full so I took all their water and put it in one cup. This would simulate the effect of artificially raising interest rates.

either way this manipulation of the value of the dollar shifts wealth. The answer is to let the market decide interest rates by ending the borrowing of money from the discount window so Banks must practice smart and safe banking.

#112 - Long Overdue Update

2008-02-22T17:30:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

I'm sorry I've been out of action latley due to my new job training to be a stock broker with E1 Assest management. I really like the company, they really stress honesty and integrity which is something I can get behind. Oh well, as far as the freedom movement, I'm still running things at LibertyWarChest.com and we're doing another fundraiser for congressional candidates on March 14th which you should all get behind. Just go to LibertyWarChest.com so you can sign up for the mailing list and keep up to date with those efforts.

I should be adding more Mp3's and Videos over at MercedForFreedom.com soon, so keep an eye out for it. In the meantime you should really download the Market for Liberty for at FreeKeene.com .

With the new Mccain scandal I'm hoping his poll numbers drop enough that he drops out which would be the shocker of the year cause it'd make it a Huckabee/Paul race. I still believe miracles can happen for Ron Paul, freedom is popular.

- Alex Merced

P.S. Please support LibertyWarChest.com's fundraisers Liberty causes, thanks ya'll :)

#111 - Alaska and Washington, wins for Ron Paul

2008-02-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

Apparently it looks like when all is said and done despite not winning the "straw polls", Alaska and Washington will turn out to be wins for Ron Paul. Also reports from the Washington state coordinator report that Ron Paul got twice as many state delegates than the other candidates, that many Ron Paul supporters went stealth as uncommitted delegates and are confirmed for the state convention. I won't be surprised after the state conventions in Maine, Nevada, and Minnesota prove to have similar results.

Don't Count Ron Paul out Yet. Remember Delegates will vote on the party platform, rules, and officials. Imagine Ron Paul as the RNC chairman.

So keep the fight going.

- Alex Merced

#110 - A Brokered Convention

2008-02-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

Ok I thought I'd take some time to explain what I do understand about a Brokered Convention to clear up some of the confusion going about among the Ron Paul Grassroots so let's start out with real question.

1. How do you win the Republican Nomination?

Is it by Winning the Popular vote? No. Is it by winning the most states? No.

It's by getting the voted by 1191 delegates during the Republican National Convention, which will not be held until September.

2. What are Delegates?

Delegates are individuals who will be voting at the RNC (Republican National Convention), there different amount of delegates alloted to the 50 states + territories. How these delegates selected differs from state to state. Delegates can individually be the supporter of any candidate, but some are bound and some are unbound.

A bound delegate MUST vote for whoever his states primary process decides for them to vote for.

An unbound delegate can vote for any candidate they want at the RNC despite who won there states primary.

3. How many delegates does each candidate have right now?

Your guess is as good as mine. The numbers you see on TV are estimates based on the popular vote in each Primary/Caucus. So some candidates like Mccain might have lot less than estimated and other candidates like Ron Paul may have a lot more than estimated we won't know until September. This is why this is a marathon, not a race. States that have already had caucuses are yet to decide who gets their alloted delegates.

4. Wait... then when do we know who gets Caucus delegates?

Well, you must understand the caucus process, when people go to caucus they are voting on county and state delegates who will vote at a state convention. At this state convention the state delegates will vote national delegates to the National convention. An organized campaign will coordinate to make sure these state and national delegates are their supporters. State conventions arn't until the summer so any cacucs estimation are pure speculation.

5. So what is a brokered convention?

At the RNC the delegates will have 4 opportunities to vote, if a candidate does not hit 1191 votes in the first vote then in the 2nd ballot many of the bound delegates become Unbound. at this point the different campaigns will negotiate with each other over the extra votes. A well organized campaign will have seen that all the bound delegates were his supporters. Basically they will vote again, and if a majority is not reached then they vote again and more delegates become unbound.

6. So how does Ron Paul stand a chance in a brokered convention?

- Caucus delegates, while the popular vote each caucus state puts Ron Paul typically 2nd or 3rd in caucus states, the campaign was organized and has been able to elect more state delegates than the other candidates which will give him the majority of the delegates in those states. Especially with Romney out of the race who was the only other heavily organized campaign at the caucuses.

- With Romney being out, much of the Anti-Mccain vote that Romney was getting will be going to Ron Paul and Huckabee. This should be enough o give Huckabee wins in the remaining states guaranteeing a brokered convention.

- Many of the bound delegates in many states are actually Ron Paul supporters due to a serious efforts during Q3/Q4 to fill those delegate slots in every state. So they may have to vote for Mccain in the first vote, but will become Ron Paul delegates in future votes.

So, that's a super dumbed down, simplified explanation of a Brokered Convention and how to win the Republican Nomination.

#109 - Romney SUSPENDS his campaign

2008-02-07T10:38:00.001-08:00

Hey Guys,

Today Romney really showed how smart he is, if you think this suspension means he's not still hoping for the nomination your quite wrong, if that were the case he would of dropped out. Him to campaign normally would've sealed the deal for Mccain as Huckabee and Romney would continue to split the anti-mccain vote. With Romney moving to the sidelines it gives Huckabee the boost he needs to win over Mccain in most of the remaining states causing a brokered convention, in which Romney will still technically be in contention. This is a very clever play, cause if Huckabee won every remaining state he could not hit 1191 delegates, and this is what Romney is banking on cause like he said "I don't like to lose".

This benefits the Ron Paul campaign in many ways.

- Gives us free reign in the remaining caucus states, and also will give us some room to pull off extra delegates in the state conventions of the previous caucus states.

- less media clutter between the three "remaining candidates"

This totally changes the dynamics of the entire race.

#108 - Hope is a Crazy Thing

2008-02-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

Hey,

I know many of us Ron Paul supporters are discouraged from the super Tuesday results, but this is because your looking at what was a huge success through the wrong perspective. Millions and Millions of people voted for Ron Paul yesterday, including myself. The beauty of this is that Ron Paul does not have passive voters. Every one of those votes were people ready to fight and speak the message of freedom, who thoughts so many people understood Liberty and Freedom. We area movement strong, loud, and unified and still growing.

The movement and the message is strong, and while there is some concern whether continuing in this race is the best vehicle for the freedom message, here's the argument for continuing in the republican primaries.

Delegate wise we are doing much better than apparent due to great organization in caucus states which will prove to be a majority in many of their state conventions. So hopefully at all these state conventions we can win a delegate majority and get the 5 states we need to qualify for a brokered convention. If Huckabee and Romney keeps sapping up delegates on the side, the likeliness of brokered convention is near inevitable. So the chance of Ron Paul winning the nomination in a brokered convention is still very much alive.

The other side of the argument is with the media blackout and smear attempts in the media would alienate many from the freedom the message if we stay in this vehicle. If we were to reincarnate in a vehicle such as a leadership PAC which we can fund for Ron Paul to travel and spread the message to hotspots to get people into those congressional and senatorial offices. Yet the fear in this scenario is the plethora of people we have as Ron Paul delegates, will they have the morale follow through to continue in the process to reform the party platform and plus who to vote for president since there is NO substitute for Ron Paul.

In the end I think we'll see Ron Paul continue in the race, which is great and we must support him in his every action. Although, we must not lose sight of the grander movement and take responsibility for getting liberty candidates in your local offices, cause we need many individuals to have actually influence on the policies of this great nation.

So help me in these efforts and sign up @ LibertyWarChest.com as we fuel the freedom movement across the nation.

#107 - Ralph Nader Returns

2008-02-03T07:13:00.000-08:00

This was a great interview with Ron Paul on MTV and if you havn't Pre-Order his book and sign up at LibertyWarChest.com.

On the forums today posted a new letter sent from the Ralph Nader people about establishing an exploratory committee. This will make things interesting especially with an independent run from Bloomberg, and everything else going on in the mythology of this 2008 presidential race. Well below is the newsletter.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

On Thursday, Ralph Nader was on Democracy Now with our good friend Amy Goodman. You can watch the video of the interview here.

On Friday, Ralph did radio around the country.

And this Sunday February 3, 2008, Ralph will be on CNN’s Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer (11 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST.)

Hope you get a chance to watch.

We had a huge response to the launch.

And next week, on Super Tuesday, the corporate Republicans and corporate Democrats will let us know where they stand.

We’re keeping a close eye on both races.

In the meantime, in anticipation of the usual – corporate control of the country – we’re moving forward.

We are exploring whether we can get 1,000 active, committed citizens in each and every Congressional district.

And enough funding to launch a 50 state effort to challenge the corporate powers that be.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to standing up to corporate power.

Please spread the word.

And give whatever you can.

If the corporate duopoly shakes out as we think it will, there will be only one place to turn this election year for active, vibrant, engaged citizen energy.

Check it out at www.naderexplore08.org.

It should be an exciting year.

Onward

The Nader Team

#106 - A 1% Tax... too good to be true

2008-02-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

This interview of Mitt Romney by Mark Larsen has become immortalized in mythology of this 2008 presidential season. Although, more interesting in this interview is the mention of a 1% Value Added Tax, and the claim that CATO and Mises has both crunched the numbers. If such a tax is viable I'd be all in favor of it cause it doesn't seem like it'd hurt savings and responsible consumer behavior like our current tax system or discourage leisurely spending like a 23% fairtax.

If anyone has the links to CATO or Mises crunching the numbers on this 1% tax, please post it in the comments. I want to believe this is a real option, it seems like this would really go a long way in fixing the economy.

#105 - The Bottom Line About Ron Paul

2008-01-31T18:56:00.000-08:00

The bottom line after super Tuesday for the Ron Paul campaign will be the grassroots ability to have Ron Paul delegates organized in EVERY STATE. These efforts were those of last year and hopefully it went well so when we go to the GOP convention even if Mccain or Romney won enough delegates to avoid a brokered convention our delegates can:

1) Vote on the platform on the Republican party returning it to constitutional values

2) Vote to unbound the delegates so that all these delegates can vote for who they want and not who their respective states had bound them to

This is why knowing the process is important, and we have been working to get our people in those delegates spots for awhile. So, all those people from states that had already voted are wondering, what do I do now?

1) Mail your left over Ron Paul materials to an upcoming state

2) Work with your local meet-up groups and peers to put together a slate of congressional and senate candidates for your state and get them elected

3) Join the online grassroots @ RonPaulForums.com, Freeople.com and the Liberty Independence Alliance.

4) Create informational websites like Mine (sign up for the mailing list), and organize local conventions and workshops to educate people on the principles of liberty.

5) Promote Ron Pauls new book "Revolution: A Manifesto"

#104 - Dismantling the Government

2008-01-30T15:31:00.000-08:00

People argue that the government needs to fix your problems... does anybody else get super scared like me when too much power is concentrated in one place. I mean I recently made a podcast talking about this topic. I mean it's like a nuclear bomb, a huge concentration of power that can be used for good and bad, but much easier for bad.

Bush had one of the most corrupt, inept administrations I think in US history rivaling Woodrow Wilson for most egregious long term destruction of the US economy. I thank my lucky stars that the government wasn't more powerful when he was in office at the thought of what more damage he could of done. Now the people on the left want to give more power to the government?

Don't they realize even if all their big central government altruism would prove to work against all sound economic principles and logic, that it would be inevitable that another lackluster Bush like person would ascend to the presidency someday. What will happen then?

This is why I can only sleep at night by supporting Ron Paul, he's the only man running for office not cause he thin he can run the country better but cause he thinks the PEOPLE can run the country better. Localized decision making will make people happier, and be much more efficient. People are empowered and generally more optimistic when they feel their voice is heard in the democratic process.

Do you feel your voice is heard more in a town meeting of you local peers, or heard by the assumptions of those elected to go to Washington DC and make decisions for millions of people. Think about it?

I don't want to join congress to have power, but to dismantle our growing central government and restore the power to the people of this nation to fix their problems promptly instead of waiting years for miracles at the federal level.

#103 - Boycott MTV Ron Paul Exlcusion

2008-01-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

http://www.myspace.com/election2008

Ron Paul has been excluded from this Myspace/MTV event, now it's time to start the boycott against Rupert Murdoch in full effect. FoxNEWS/MTV/Myspace and their sponsers must be boycotted.

- Call your local cable provider demand them to remove these channels or cancel your service
- Sell any stock you have in Fox
- Call their sponsers and demand they pull their sponsership
- SPREAD THE WORD

Join the RonPaulForums.com in order to express you disgust

Ron Paul has more gross votes that Giuliani who HAS been invited, this is an outrage. Ron Paul has gotten 2nd place in two state, Giuliani hasn't done better than 4th. This is an Outrage.

#102 - Protecting Americas Future

2008-01-27T14:43:00.000-08:00

Protecting Americas Future

by Alex Merced

As a concerned American we must learn from the past and look to the future to avoid past mistakes and embrace future triumphs. In order to improve the future of this nation, we must look to the next generation. The children who are here now and the ones that are to come, have by ours and previous generations seen their opportunities and liberties stolen from a government with no regard for the constitution and the ideals of freedom this country was founded on.

Our children our losing out to a quality education as the bureaucracy known as the Department of Education continues to eat tax dollars that can go to helping improve schools on the state level. Our children are losing jobs due to government intervention in the economy. Our children are losing their lives due to a disregard of life before birth and disregard for the lives of Americas bravest men and women in sending them to intervene in the internal conflicts of other nations.

If we can work together to get the voices we need in the congress and the senate to shrink government size and spending, we can make some significant changes, primarily that of ending the IRS. Can we end the IRS overnight? No. It will take years of fighting for lower spending from the government and against inflationary policies of the Federal Reserve in order to get to the level needed to safely remove the IRS. Although, this is the goal we must focus on even if it can't be overnight we must not lose sight of the ideals of this nation.

Of course when we lower taxes and get rid of the IRS, this would free up the funds of the citizens to do things like afford to send their kids to private schools or home school, or work with their state legislature to improve their public and charter schools. Funds can't fix our education system alone, we must return authority back to the parents and end the department of education. Only then can schools be accountable to the taxpayers who fund them, and to the states in which they reside.

An education fuels many things, the ability for our children to be creative and see new ways to use the freedom this great nation strives for. Education gives our children to innovate and analyze the world around them to shape and change the dialog in all respects. Without these critical skills it limits the opportunities available to our children but so does a shrinking job market due to bad economic policy. Regulation raises the barriers of entry for small businesses giving the major corporations more control over the markets raising the prices and limiting the potential for new jobs. The welfare state steals the hard earned funds from tax payers to subsidize others, who should be helped but by voluntary and charitable means. The welfare state saps the funds of government which then in turns raises taxes which decreases job market increasing the lower class in a vicious cycle of despair.

In order to increase the opportunities for our children in ever expanding global market, we need to increase our trade and diplomatic relationships with other nation. Although, we should not participate in treaties and alliances which forces our nation into resolution and puts our citizens lives at risk for causes that don't serve our best interest. Our loyalty is to our nation and what it stand for, not to our currently inflated government, and not to the government of other nations. With expanding trade we bring jobs to our nation, and by staying out of the internal affairs of other nations we bring our nation more friends around the world. The power of peace and friendship is not lost, but it must be revitalized to improve the America of tomorrow.

Education, the economy, foreign policy and every issues that crosses the mind of our citizens shapes the future of this nation and future of it's children. We must not lose sight of the American Dream, we make sure those to come will have just as much if not more opportunity to dream of better tomorrow as each and every one of us.

#101 - A Strategy of Peace

2008-01-24T23:33:00.000-08:00

A Strategy of Peace

by Alex Merced

Senator John Mccain was heavily criticized by conservatives for his opposition to the Rumsfeld strategy in Iraq, and Congressman Ron Paul was also criticized for wanting to return to a Non-Interventionist foreign policy. I put myself forth for the same criticisms when I say I agree with Ron Paul in his views on foreign policy. This is why I am compelled to write this essay to address what I feel is the right strategy in promoting democracy and undermining the terrorist threat, a strategy of peace. A strategy of peace, as endorsed by our constitution and our founding fathers can bring us the security we are fighting for.

Many feel such a strategy is to abandon the middle east and the let the terrorists thrive, but I would contest this. We all agree that it is everyones best interest to see sustainable democratic governments in the middle east. To create a sustainable government you can't use military force to remove a previous government and protect a new one or you create an unsustainable democracy. We're seeing this happen in Afghanistan now as the Taliban have begun to reform and contest the Karzai government. Sustainable democracies are created by the citizens of the state modeling after nations they aspire too. We must aim to be this nation they aspire to be, and we must do this focusing on domestic issues and our citizens. A strong domestic policy will create the environments and the motivation for democracy to spread.

So, we can save the money to handle our domestic issues and spread democracy by example through cutting overseas spending, but this still leaves the question on how do we fight the terrorist organizations without military action? This is a question that's answered by one reality, without resources and supporters no organization can last. This is why a constitutional strategy of peace can go the distance in the battle against terrorism.

How? First we must understand the two elements of the foundation of any organization, it's resources and supporters. We all know that most the resources for terrorist organizations come from middle east oil, opium sales, and the corrupt funneling of foreign aid. Ron Paul is the only conservative running for president who is strong on cutting off the terrorists funding through many means. By ending the subsidies to oil through military aid the true market prices will push the market away from oil consumption which will mean less oil revenues trickling down to terrorist organizations. Putting an end to the war on drugs would kill the underground drug economy which fuels local gangs, drug cartels, and terrorist organizations. By ending foreign aid to all nations we avoid American tax dollars from funneling to extremist groups.

After cutting off the financial resources to the terrorists their ability to recruit will diminish, but we must understand why people join these organizations. To brush it off as simply, they hate America, is a gross generalization that threatens our security. Anyone who knows anything about behavior, knows you can't change a behavior without understanding what drives it. Yes, terrorist leaders are extremist with a long history of hostility towards America but is this what convinces people to join their cause? Why do their ranks grow faster whenever we take action in their nations? Cause it lends credence to the claims of terrorist leaders and when you live in a hopeless environment of endless conflict it's easy to fall prey to an ideology of extremism which has nothing to do with religion and everything to do with desperation.

By fueling this endless destruction and conflict through military means we lend credibility to our enemy with the blood of our bravest. We must destroy the credibility of our enemy by taking the high road, by being viewed as a land that cares for it's people and not the country that bombs a nation for years killing civilians. If China in fear of our WMD's bombed the US and killed your children or your parents, I am sure you would be in an emotional state to lashout in extreme measures against them. We must end this motivating factor to the behavior that threatens us.

It's a very small minority who lashout in these extreme organizations, but we can't let them grow by our actions and take the actions to undermine their resources and recruitment. We must bring back our funds from overseas to repair our domestic struggles and return to being a beacon of what a country can be, so others can aspire to be like us. You may criticize my conservatism for willing to stand up against party sentiments, but I rather be criticized than feel that I have done nothing to change the policies that undermine our domestic and foreign welfare. True conservatism has always been a strict adherence to the constitution and a moral conviction to keep this nation on the moral high ground. You may not agree with me now, but I ask you to keep my words in your minds as we face our current struggles as a nation, with a strategy of peace.

#100 - Ending Poverty?

2008-01-21T17:38:00.000-08:00

Here I am watching the democratic debate and hearing them talk about ending poverty. It just goes to show me my days on the left were so misguided, when I hear unrealistic talk like this that fills people in desperate need with hope with unreal and high expectations for tomorrow. I'm glad I've changed and embraced the constitution, liberty, and free market economics.

In a great nation with a sound economy, poverty will still exist due to small group of people who are unable to be productive or choose to not to be productive in society. In a sound economy, the number of those in poverty would be minimal and small enough that non-profit and charitable organizations can lend them a hand. The problem is, due to having a weakening economy, a weakening currency, and an inflating government the number of those in poverty has swelled beyond the numbers that these entities can handle.

In conditions like these it's natural for those suffering to ask government for help, not realizing it's government that has shaped the environment for such conditions destructing the natural order. It's only through having empathy for our struggling brethren and embracing our differences and attempting to educate them on the reality of the growing level of poverty due to government intervention that we can create the coalition to create the change we need.

So as long as we keep the economic environment unstable and unhealthy with government intervention like a FIAT money supply, a welfare state, regulations, and unfair taxes there will be no restoration of the economic order and continual downward spiral. It's these types of policies that increase inflation, kill small business and jobs, and drains those already struggling to fund social programs for this growing deficit of prosperity.

It's this unstable and unfair economic system that drains citizens of the nation and places blame on the people from other nation competing for scraps of a broken economic system. A sound economic system would not only grow to make room for our citizens and those of other nation, but increase the prosperity of other nations so they don't have to leave their homes and families just to survive.

Yet the cycle repeats due to a lack of understanding, due to a dangerously ineffective and expensive education system which continues to dumbing down of coming generations while becoming a bigger drain on the economy while just repeating the cycle. This cycle can't be broken if we don't understand the one thing that ties everything together is the economy, and that it's by letting the economy heal naturally and restore itself to it's natural state that we will ever see a hope for tomorrow.

The longer we wait to let this economic wound heal, the longer it will take to heal. It's time we fight to get the government out of this wound and stop the government from expanding it. The economy is function of the people, not the government. When the economy is taken away from the people it brings poverty and a divided nation.

#99 - A Ron Paul Congress

2008-01-20T10:49:00.000-08:00

My Fellow Americans,

Here I am nearing the 100th post here on Cause of Freedom where I have done my best to educate people on the issues and philosophy of promoting and protecting liberty. I have also spent much time promoting the ideals and candidacy of Ron Paul. Ron Paul represents exactly the kind of thinking we need to re-inject into our electoral system. This is why it is important to elect Ron Paul Americans into the congress and the senate to push Liberty minded and Constitutional legislation to revive this nation.

This is why I endorse Rick Frey from Texas and Brent Sanders from Louisiana to help begin the restoration of this country in the US congress, and encourage people from across the nation to donate to their campaigns and spread the word about what they are trying to do.

It's also important to get involved in your state legislature which is why I endorse Thomas Hill in North Carolina running for the North Carolina senate.

I also hope to conquer the 4th congressional district of New York to take more Liberty to the US congress in 2012 (possibly 2010) with the "Merced for Freedom" campaign, and like everyone else I mentioned will need a national following to fight this fight without being silenced by local special interests.

Join the network of Liberty to stay united at the Liberty Independence Alliance.

It's our country, and our world that's on the line with every misguided and unconstitutional piece of legislation that passes, and it's up to us to turn this around.

Sincerely,

Hector Alexander Merced

#98 - Soldier leaves Army for Ron Paul

2008-01-19T21:26:00.000-08:00

More and more the troops are speaking out for Ron Paul by donating more to Ron Paul than any candidate in either party, and now they are leaving the army to make a statement about what Ron Paul is saying. No matter what you think you know about Ron Paul, what's important is that you listen to the message, and realize how our government has betrayed us instead of focusing on personal prejudice of party lines and ideology. We must unite to preserve the small window we have left to keep America great and elect Ron Paul into office to return to American principles we were founded on.

#97 - Alex Merced on the Issues

2008-01-19T10:00:00.001-08:00

A Video Series where Alex Merced describe his political Views

View the Videos @ http://libertyia.ning.com

1 - Intro
2 - Constitution
3 - States Rights
4 - Church vs. State
5 - Free Markets
6 - Federal Reserve
7 - Foreign Policy
8 - Life/Privacy
9 - Environment
10 - Education
11 - Conclusion

http://www.myspace.com/mercedforfreedom
http://causeoffreedom.blogspot.com
http://paulestine.blogspot.com

#96 - GAO on USA Economic Crisis

2008-01-16T16:08:00.000-08:00

Candidates on both sides continue to talk about where they can nickel and dime spending and fiscally responsible. The country is beyond cutting corners to balance the books, it needs a massive overhaul of the books. Ron Paul is the only candidate who understands the implications of what the GAO talks about the video below, I beg you to watch this pay careful attention to our dire situation.

#95 - Fear Factors Joe Rogan on Ron Paul

2008-01-15T18:49:00.000-08:00

I'll let Joe Rogan do the talking

#94 - Ron Paul Odds and Ends

2008-01-14T07:50:00.001-08:00

First off, I would like to apologize for the sensationalizing of the Charles Rangle military legislation, it was misleading of me to frame it the way I did. Although, the issue of the draft is one that should stay in political discourse as long as the selective service exists.

With increasing military commitments and decreasing military recruitment something is going to have to happen to continue these commitments. I hope they aren't planning on sending our men and women on a 4th deployment already, and if military action in Iran or Pakistan does occur be sure they will need troops to do so and they will rationalize putting the draft back on the table like in the past. This is especially disconcerting when candidates like Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and John Mccain have all discusses and mentioned the idea of mandatory military service in passing during addresses.

This is not some irrelevant issue in todays political climate. It's quite the opposite.

In other news I have started a community blog for Ron Paul supporters to post their thoughts and videos, if you'd like to be a contributor get in touch with me. The blog is found at.

http://paulestine.blogspot.com

Also make sure to sign up for the Liberty Independence Alliance

#93 - Democrats plan to revive Military Draft

2008-01-12T20:14:00.001-08:00

New York Democratic Congressman introduces H.R. 393: Universal National Service Act of 2007, a bill that would force military service to all citizens. Ron Paul in his fight for Civil Liberty has fought against this kind of offense to our civil liberties. Ron Paul had this to say when honoring Muhammad Ali in his efforts to fight the draft and protect civil liberties.

"Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 58. I saw Muhammad Ali as a man of great courage, and I admired him for this, not because of the courage that it took to get in a ring and fight men bigger than he, but because of his stance in 1967.

In 1967, he was 25 years old. He was the heavyweight champion of the world, and for religious beliefs, he practiced what Martin Luther King made popular, civil disobedience, because he disagreed with the war. I thought his comments were rather astute at the time and were not complex, but he merely said, I have no quarrel with the Viet-Cong. He said the Viet-Cong never called him a name, and because of his religious convictions, he said he did not want to serve in the military. He stood firm, a man of principle, and I really admired this as a quality.

He is known, of course, for his athletic skills and his humanitarian concerns, and these are rightly mentioned in a resolution like this. But I do want to emphasize this because, to me, it was so important and had such impact, in reality, what Muhammad Ali did eventually led to getting rid of the draft, and yet we as a people and we as a Congress still do not have the conviction that Muhammad Ali had, because we still have the selective service; we say, let us not draft now, but when the conditions are right, we will bring back the draft and bring back those same problems that we had in the 1960s.

I see what Muhammad Ali did as being very great. He deserves this recognition, but we should also praise him for being a man of principle and willing to give up his title for 3 years at the age of 25 at the prime of his career. How many of us give up something to stand on principle? He was a man of principle. He believed it and he stood firm, so even those who may disagree with his position may say at least he stood up for what he believed in. He suffered the consequences and fortunately was eventually vindicated."

#92 - Pacifism, Civil Disobedience, and Ron Paul

2008-01-12T07:16:00.000-08:00

I love Ron Paul cause when he calls people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks as his heroes, he really embodies what he learns from them. I made a video discussing Civil liberties which I will post in a second but I'm going to rehash and elaborate first.

When doing battle like these heroes of Liberty you have very little advantages against the oppressive establishment, all you have is the ground advantage of being right and having the conviction to follow through. History has shown that the establishment will spit on you, kick you, call you crazy to quiet your message.

They did this to Ghandi, they did this to MLK Jr., and now they are doing this to Ron Paul. Some may find it odd I put them in the same category, but show me a man who has surmounted the odds against a party who over 10 congressional election has continually tried to defeat him and silent him but can't. Show me a man more honest about the governments shorts comings and the possible dangers who puts his life day in and day out for nation where many laugh at him and call him crazy, with a media that slanders and demeans him despite a lifetime of dedicated service to this country.

This man is a hero of unique caliber which we do not deserve, he is the only one with the conviction to stand in the face of every possible adversity and smile and continue saying what he's been saying.

This is why when dealing with the oppressive powers that be there is only one way to maintain the advantage which is by pacifism and civil disobedience, cause it gives you the high ground and a elevation advantage. Now the establishment can't use force to retaliate without strengthening the surviving message and movement, they can't martyr and effectively slander you through pacifist means.

PETA is an organization that has used coercive and aggressive means to spread a message and what happens? It only gives fodder to the establishment to much easier portray them as kooks and domestic terrorist further undermining their message. Ron Paul avoid this by the taking the long and hard road of Pacifism and Civil Disobedience.

Ask yourself, What Would Ron Paul Do?

#91 - Ron Paul Warned us!!! Real ID now in effect!!!

2008-01-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul always speaks of the danger of the Nanny state and how a National ID card can hurt privacy rights and liberty while giving government more control and vigilance into our every action. Now Homeland security has mandated a national ID card, it's not to late and we can turn this around. There is only one candidate that will, Ron Paul.

The Read ID story by CNN

#90 - Ron Paul Supporters Investigate Newsletter

2008-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

We in the grassroots stand by our man and have been working hard to find solid proof to exonerate Dr. Paul. Some things to think about?

- If Ron Paul is so racist why would he fight so much to promote the ideas of Ghandi and Martin Luther King in all his speeches and books

- Why would democrat Dennis Kucinich be one of his best friends

- Why is Ron Paul such an avid Muhammad Ali fan andused Alis Rope a Dope strategy in winning many elections

Here some detective work my people at the RonPaulForums.com :

"The "writer" of the racist newslettes writes "I bought my first copy of the men's fashion magazine GQ..."
http://www.tnr.com/downloads/March1990.pdf

But in a conversation written in an article by the New York Times from this summer, Paul has no idea what that magazine is.

"“GQ wants to profile you on Thursday,” Benton continues. “I think it’s worth doing.”

“GTU?” the candidate replies.

“GQ. It’s a men’s magazine.”

“Don’t know much about that,” Paul says. "
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/22/ma.../22Paul-t.html

Hopefully my quick google search can clear up some misconceptions people have about Paul."

MORE TO COME

#89 - Ron Paul Addresses Racism Charges Beautifuly

2008-01-10T15:09:00.000-08:00

As you know the last couple of months I'd make the occasional post where I would address the constantly re-emerging accusations that Ron Paul is racist. Usually these accusation stem from newsletters sent out over 15 years ago which were written by a variety of contributors. Today he wonderfully addressed these accusations on CNN with Wolf Blitzer and I'll show you the video at the bottom of the post. First, I want to talk about the Ron Paul I love.

The Ron Paul I love loves Civil Disobedience and Martin luther King Jr. and talked about how following in his footsteps is vital to being a true patriot in this address to congress.

The Ron Paul I know is Muhammad Ali fan who Honored him on his 65th birthday with kind words to one of Americas greatest.

The Ron Paul I know was one of the few candidates who would participate in the Morgan State debate which addressed Minority issues shown in the video below.

Ron Paul was the only candidate on either side to come speak at the Arab American Summit in Dearborn, MI show in the video below

Ron Paul Addressing Accusations of Racism on CNN

#88 - Why Ron Paul can still win! BELIEVE!

2008-01-10T06:50:00.000-08:00

Don't worry I will return to posting informative and educational stuff after the elections calm down a bit. Here is some info floating around the forums discussing the Ron Paul campaign strategy.

"Remember the secret plan? You’re about to see it! plus Words of wisdom from your fellow supporters.

From this thread:Remember the secret plan? You’re about to see itThe money was purposefully saved, prepare to get sick of Ron on national TV.and,I just gave you all I knew.They were undershooting so they could get 3rd in the first two states…they weren’t far off in either. They didn’t WANT first, as it’s politically bad with super tuesday so far off (call it the buchannon effect).Then comes the media blitz, you WILL see the money, and they WILL be targeting proper demographics now that they have the info, this is how he has won all of his elections. No other republican can effectively use the demographic information (fix the economy, end the war).I don’t know anything beyond that other than they are hoping for others to drop out so he gets more air time during debates.Others shared these thoughts:“The media has been saying all along he is not viable, so we didn’t really lose much, yet.

”“It was hardly a very far fifth place finish it was damn close.”“I have heard this too from the campaign! I had a good cry last night, but I am over it and ready to keep fighting the fight!This aint over till the fat lady sings!”“This would be good, especially since all the candidates have blown all their money on the first couple of states, and then Ron Paul comes in and blasts all the states on Super Tuesday with ads to take the lead right out from under everybody….BRILLIANT!”

“Facts we do know hereBased upon expenditure reports from air time being bought in NH and IA1. RP appears to have about $20 million still stashed2. RP is asking for another $23 million3. RP Campaign has played it low key at first - look at the first few ads4. RP Campaign came out with 4 great ads recently5. RP campaign is starting tv and radio ads in 10 states this week based upon press releases6. RP campaign definitely didn’t do an early state strategy in spite of funds raised and looking back if you think how much time and resources spent there by all campaigns RP was never going to stand out from the pack in IA and NH.”

“Gotta really think about it. It would be a good idea. This giga Tuesday thing is new. We cannot look at Iowa and NH as significant at all. It may be that Ron’s campaign has thought outside the box on this. If you think about it…here in California, I talk about the primaries with people and the majority cannot even name a candidate. This especially applies to the republican candidates.”

“The more that I think about this….and from the snippets I heard while in IA the more it becomes obvious that they have taken this course.For three reasons:1. Its impossible to stand out from the crowd in IA and NH2. The field is way too crowded right now… let it settle out some first and let everyone beat up on each other and get bloodied up3.. Most of their money in all honesty came in in the last month… too late to be spent on IA and NH but perfect for laying out a post IA, NH media blitz that will be unrivaled as other campaigns starve for cash”

“Is Ron Paul not the “thinking man’s candidate?” Once you consider this, “aiming for 3rd” strategy, it really does make sense, whether the poster was privvy to inside info or not. If Ron is sitting on a pile of cash now, why the hell would he continue to hold onto it? I’ll assume he plans on spending it!Without having to spend a dime, Ron Paul, in a clever way, could be said to have used these two events in IA and NH to fish out all manner of valuable demographic information. Now that he’s got this info on so many important particulars, he can put his war chest to better use than ever before, instead of having to dump piles of cash into various efforts and cross his fingers. If you’ve got less money, overall, than people like Romney, Giuliani, Clinton, Obama, you’d better do your research first so you can get the most for your money when it comes time to spend. Does this not make perfect sense?This is an intelligent man and regardless of what happens, this is not over until 2009.Eyes on the prize”

“Ahh I love speculation… though so much of it makes sense… because if you think about it… the campaign really didn’t try hard at all for either of IA or NH, RP and Kent Snyder have had 20 years to plan this… RP has beaten the establishment before big time so everyone cheer up, don’t lose heart and donate some more money!”

“I’ve been mulling this all over tonight, and in reading this, the thought occured to me - does Ron Paul now hang his head and hang it up? and I honestly think the man would laugh at such an idea. He’s been a lone voice for decades - these results are nothing but encouragement for him.The votes have not proven he’s a front runner, but they do NOTHING to prove his ideas wrong. Nothing whatsoever. He knows he’s right, we know he’s right. He’s got the Constitution, the founders, history and economics on his side, and he’s going to keep fighting the good fight as long as we stand with him.Let’s stand with our man and march with him all the way, to the end.”

“Remember the field was too crowded at first.Now Romney is hurting bad, Rudy is tanking, Thompson is sleeping, Huckabee is bogus, and McCain is still insane.”

“You all are missing the big picture.We are a few % points away from #3. You want everyone else to kill everyone else. Then you step in to fill the void.It is political strategy. If you think Dr. Paul is smart enough to understand the fed, the war, and so on: Why not understand that he knows what he is doing. He is playing the fiddle just like Huckabee….Wait and watch”

“This thread is making me think. Even moreso, maybe Paul is crazy… just crazy like a fox.1) You’re sitting on the largest Republican war chest2) All your opponent’s fundraising is on life support, or they blew all their money in the first two or three primaries.3) Each of the other candidates has a huge huge negative that will show up and turn off republican votersIf they can pull the following off, it would be the greatest election coup in history:Parity of wins gives each candidate a few days in the sun, or a few days of good grilling by the conservative media for their undesirable chances. Huck’s vast tax and spending, McCain’s amnesty fiasco and McCain-Feingold, all of Rudy’s baggage from NYC, and Thompson’s lack of enthusiasm and personality all weigh on the mind of the Republican voters. Look at the first two primary winners for Iowa and NH:Do you think people from the more liberal states are going to look at Huckabee and actually say, “I’ll vote for him”? No, they’re gonna see that record of his and remind themselves that they would never do that. He won Iowa, now he placed 3rd in NH.Do you think people from the South and West are going to look at McCain and not remember the amnesty BS? They’re not going to vote for him. He placed 3rd in Iowa. In NH he pulled off a win. Is he going to win in Michigan or SC? No way.As for second place, do you think people are going to look at Romney after he blew all his chances on two states, and consider him an electable candidate? When he polls at 12% nationally? And all of those flip flops from his days as governor?He notices that Hillary is being built up as the comeback girl, which causes splinters in Obama’s support among independents. They end up looking for a new option, and it ain’t Edwards.Meanwhile, Paul sits back; he lets the media in Iowa and NH do his polling work for him - with real election results, not opinion polls. He lets his opponents spend themselves into debt. He allows each one of them a few days in the spotlight to allow Republican voters to remember why they suck. He figures out what voting blocs are voting on what issue, and how independent voters are swinging. Using this he super-targets on the winning issues with his 20 million dollar war chest in the 2 weeks prior to super Tuesday (to get the most bang for the buck) while the grassroots continues, and the blimp flies on in SC and Florida.It couldn’t be possible… could it?” "

#87 - A Letter to Ron Paul supporters and fans of Liberty

2008-01-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

My Fellow Americans,

I write this letter as a decree of a shift in our nation. The message of Liberty and Independence has once again struck the nerve of the American pulse, thanks to one mans honesty and integrity, Ron Paul. As we all band together around his message of Liberty, we must realize the change needed in this country can't be done with only one person in one office.

This is the purpose of the Liberty Independence Alliance, to be a network of friendship and hope. To be the center of our continuing efforts to put people like Ron Paul in the many positions in our system to help move the country back towards liberty. So across party and state lines, I ask you to join the LIA and help take our country back and restore the power to the American People. This is our fight, this fight is now, this fight must be won.

With Hope, Hector Alexander Merced LIA Founder & Administrator
Author of the blog: Cause for Freedom

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The 9 Principles of The LIA

Liberty, Integrity, Accountability, Federalism, Law, Knowledge, Diplomacy, Individualism, and Civility

#86 - Ron Paul People, the worst is over

2008-01-08T21:10:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys the worst is over, we just survived two states where every candidate had massive organizations and staffs at work for the last 6 months with a lot of people hired to motivate voters to the polls. Luckily, this is no longer the case in the rest of the states here on out. In IA and NH you had a presence from ALL the candidates and it's all they can afford.

Huckabee and Mccain can't afford to rally and organize their voters in any states other than IA and NH, and Romney is suffering but betting the horse on those two states. So now Romney is scrambling to organize last minute in other states while the rest can't afford to do so while Ron Pauls grassroots has been strong in every state. Turnout will be lower here on out in many states for many reasons which puts the ball back in Ron Pauls court. We have massive voting, but high turnout has diluted our percentages.

- Michigan will have no campaigning from dems since there's no delegates at stake, and most of GOP is going straight for South Carolina except Romney who is attempting to rally Michigan for some much needed momentum. ROn Paul is the only candidate with an HQ and organization, Romney can rally but we'll have the organization to turnout the vote in a state the media doesn't care about making the turnout reallllly low.

- Nevada is being ignored by candidates due to being on the same day as South Carolina, and again Paul is only candidate with the organization there to turn out the vote. Super low turnouts will occur due to the switch from a primary to a caucus which will catch many likely voter off guard.

- South Carolina is a state that will respond to Ron Pauls federalist message, we'll see. Turnout may backfire on us again at this state since the media blitz will be here as well and the dem race motivates people to the polls and Obama eats up swing voters.

- Again a media blitz and possible high turnout works against us, but the lack of the dems pressence leaves the swing voters all to Ron Paul since Mccain doesn't have the money to reach Florida independents. Can we beat Giuliani at his stronghold?

- Florida is so close to super Tuesday I doubt any candidate will have enough time to organize anything in these states, Luckily Ron Paul has been running ads in many of these states and the grassroots is a lot more organization than many of the candidates have the luxury of having. Super low turnout and high RP turnout is a good mix for super Tuesday.

It's still anyones game, this is a game of endurance and everyone else has been sprinting but we're going at a safe pace.

#85 - No matter what! the World is Changing, even if it's slow

2008-01-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

As a Ron Paul supporter we're all hoping for a 180 degree change of how this country works, and while economically we're being left few other options other than a drastic change it doesn't mean you shouldn't appreciate the changes that are happening.

Two states have had their election record turnouts, more people are caring, more people want to effect how the country works. Many of them are not yet embracing the message of liberty and humility of Ron Paul, but the fact they voted means people are more open to new ideas than ever before even if it takes longer than a few months for the 180 degrees of change we want. Ron Paul took 30 years of consistency despite the world being against him to spark what's going on now and it's growing faster than he ever imagined, so never let them take that away.

The world is changing, people are starting to care, just keep spreading the message they are open to it but it takes time and a lot of personal soul searching for it to settle in most people. Don't be disheartened by an election that is so compressed everyones message and politics get lost in a distortion of time and media.

We can save the world one person at a time, with knowledge comes creativity and creativity plus consistency equals change. never forget. Never Surrender.

#84 - The True Aftermath of Ron Paul

2008-01-08T03:48:00.000-08:00

I was thinking that I'd post the newest video from my video blog on here since I really think it goes over some important stuff. The revolution does not die until we have failed to act to take seats in congress, the senate, foreign parliaments, etc. This is global and no matter what each of us now have our mission to spread liberty one person at a time, and the best way to do that is to teach and enlighten one person at a time.

Someone who you teach well, will be good enough to teach others just as well. Now there's two teachers of liberty in your local area, then 4, then 8, it goes on from there that's how a revolution happens. So educate, educate, educate yourself to the core of these issues and embody them mind and spirit. For more motivation just watch the video.

May the heavens be on our side today in New Hampshire.

#83 - Checkmate, Ron Paul Manchester Town Hall

2008-01-06T20:04:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul really pulled a great move by buying an hour of TV time in NH to counteract his exclusion on the Fox News Forum. Not only did he get more airtime than any of the candidates got at the Fox Forum, but he also got a lot of great maverick buzz for it which should play very well in NH.

I don't know what Ron Pauls outcome in this race will be, I want him to win really bad. I know no matter what, many people like me have been touched by this revolution and have resolved to dedicate their lives to furthering this movement to return to the original principles of the United States, the Constitution. If you one of these people, join me and others here.

#82 - An Open Letter To Ron Paul Supporters

2008-01-06T03:49:00.000-08:00

This is a great video for those of you who need some optimism.

NOW JOIN THE FREEDOM MOVEMENT

For the record the video above is not me, but definetley one of my favorite Ron Paul video peeps.
If you do need to hear from me below are some videos I did on monetary policy.

#81 - Ron Paul Third in NH/Early State Analysis

2008-01-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

In the latest Rasmussen Poll, Ron Paul is polling a very high 3rd in NH. Mccain is still on top but I think with his statements in this video spreading you'll see a drop in his support. With so many states having their results in January let's take a look at Ron Pauls chances in each state.

New Hampshire - Ron Paul is polling high in this state, and it's a state where independents are known to swing the vote in all sorts of directions. Buchanan was polling 14% (Paul currently @ 14%) before he won with 28% of the vote, Buchanan and Paul share many of the same supporter so this could happen again.

Michigan - Since there is no Democratic delegates up for grabs, the dem candidates have abandoned Michigan which mean we won't see Obamas vacuum of independent votes which leaves room for Ron Paul to win the swing vote here too. The republican delegates are low here so none of the candidates have really done much in Michigan.

South Carolina - A conservative stronghold, I'm not sure what to expect. Ron Paul isn't polling to bad though so it's possible for a top 3 showing for Paul.

Nevada - On the same day as South Carolina, it has been abadoned by all the candidates and the state has really embraced Ron Paul. This is Ron Pauls best chance for win in the early states.

Maine - I have no idea, no one has any news about maine.

Florida - Florida is gonna be a war against Giuliani, but again dems will not be in Florida due controversy with the DNC. Ron Paul if he can capture the independent vote could possibly kill Giulianis chances and at this point be propelled to a super super tuesday.

#80 - Iowa Analysis and Implications

2008-01-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

Winners: Barack Obama, Mike Huckabee, Fred Thompson

Losers: Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney, Rudy Giuliani

No Longer with Us: Biden, Dodd

No Gain/Loss: Ron Paul, Bill Richardson, John Edwards, John Mccain

Things we Learned:

"Rage Against the Machine" - The American voters has rebelled against the candidates perceived as "establishment" candidates (Clinton, Romney, Giuliani) and went for perceived "change" candidates Obama and Huckabee.

" Spambots can Vote" - If you told anyone a few weeks ago that Ron Paul would register any votes, much less 10% to almost beat Mccain and Thompson for 3rd they would of called you crazy. Ron Paul doing twice as well as Giuliani is the kiss of death to the Giuliani campaign.

"Hillary of Glass" - she got shattered and it hurt, can she turn it around?

"Independents and youth in full force" - The election the old guard has been fearing has finally come. Huge disparity among the youth/old vote in Obamas win. How this will effect the republicans will be shown in NH since Iowa was more decided by evangelicals than any generation divide. Although Ron Paul was shown to dominate the youth and independent vote for the republicans, which raises expectations in New Hampshire.

"Wyoming?" - Suddenly everyone realizes Wyoming has a republican Caucus on Saturday

The Path to victory, each candidate:

SUMMARY: Must win an Early state to stay in the Race

Mike Huckabee: The Iowa win must translate into wins across the board since has no resources to really continue his movement. Strong showing in South Carolina is a must to stay in the race.

Mitt Romney: Must beat Mccain in New Hampshire to continue to be perceived viable, though could recover from such a loss and stay in the race if he can win at least win 1 early state, though NH is really his final and best shot.

Fred Thompson: Where did his third place showing come from? Huge resurgence of a candidate we all brushed off. This must be capitalized with a win in South Carolina or Thompson will to be dead in the water.

John Mccain: Most people still shocked by the Mccain comeback, a good showing in Iowa that was neutralized by Thompsons comeback. Mccain like most of the republican candidates is low on resources so a win on NH is necessary.

Ron Paul: A decent showing in Iowa showing that people will turnout for Paul, especially in Iowa which is 2nd to Florida as the state Ron Paul has payed the least attention to. Ron Pauls best chances at a win are NH and NV yet he has had the resources to campaign well in all the early states so he'll be a factor in each and every race. He has the resources to stay till Super tuesday no matter what so the implications of this will be more clear after NH and NV. Although Ron Pauls appeal to independents shows if need be he'd be quite viable as the Libertarian candidate.

Rudy Giuliani: Florida is Giulianis last stand, period.

Duncan Hunter: Unless he can shock everyone in Wyoming there is no hope.

Republican Summary: Romney and Giuliani were hurt real bad, but the rest of the pack lack the resources to stay in the race despite strong showings. Due to this, Ron Paul can rise as the anti-establishment candidate after Huckabee and Mccain go broke. Good things come to those who wait.

-----------------------------------------------------

Barack Obama: Another win in NH will solidify his momentum and probably the nomination. Though with NH being an anti-tax libertarian state, I don't think he'll capture as many independents this time around cause we're dealing with a very different kind of independent.

John Edwards: Need to stay top 3 in the early contests, and hope for a big super tuesday.

Hillary Clinton: Must stop Obamas momentum somewhere along the early states.

Bill Richardson: Just needs to keep doing what he'd doing and hope for an upset somewhere, which is highly unlikely

Democrat Summary: I think it'd be a safe bet that Obama has got the nomination, and with the democratic turnout destroying the republican turnout that we're looking at a one sided race unless the republicans can provide an equally widely likeable candidate (Ron Paul?). Since the independents and youth are playing a role, a third party or independent candidate has some room to play a role.

#79 - H.R. 4127: Make No Cents Until It Makes Sense Act

2008-01-04T06:03:00.000-08:00

This is a good example of Ron Pauls position against spending and against inflation. By reducing the spending on printing coins which cost more than the coins are valued, you also curve inflation.
The final bill in our series on legislation Ron Paul introduced in 2007.

H.R. 4127: Make No Cents Until It Makes Sense Act

#78 - H.R. 457: Cures Can Be Found Act of 2007

2008-01-03T16:11:00.001-08:00

Ron Paul thinks scientific research is important yet is against Federal Funding for most scientific programs cause it can push the market in directions that don't work (EX. Corn Subsidies/corn Ehtanol). Ron Paul does want to help science research be funded by providing tax credits for funding science research and donations.

This bill in particular addresses Stem Cell research, which Ron Paul approves of since there are ethical ways to obtain stem cells from left overs from artificial insemination. Ron Paul is against harvesting Embryos for stem cells for ethical reasons yet still encourages ethical stem cell research and this bill provides Tax Credits for doing so.

H.R. 457: Cures Can Be Found Act of 2007

#77 - H.R. 4078: Education Professional Development Tax Credit Act of 2007

2008-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul does care about education, despite what his position on getting rid of the Department of Education might make you think. The Department of Education doesn't equal public schools, and getting rid of it will actually gives more freedom and money to public schools. Though this would take a consensus from Congress, Ron Paul has introduced legislation to improve education by giving tax credits for professional development programs, I give you...

H.R. 4078: Education Professional Development Tax Credit Act of 2007

#76 - H.R. 3664: Tax Free Tips Act of 2007

2008-01-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

People always want to know what the candidates are going to do for low income workers and the middle class. What would Ron Paul do? Let you keep your money and spend it on buying the food you need, or to pay for the books you need for class. This is why Ron Paul introduced this bill to remove Taxation on Tips to give people working tip heavy jobs their money back. Here is the bill...

H.R. 3664: Tax Free Tips Act of 2007

Join the Fight for freedom Here!!!

#75 - H.R. 424: To repeal the Military Selective Service Act

2008-01-02T09:02:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul, being a champion of liberty feels that things like the military Draft and the selective service undermine privacy and the liberty of Americans, and gave a way for the government to practice endless interventionism at the cost of liberty with a never ending supply of troops to spread around the world due to the draft. It's this disdain for this kind of attack on civil liberties is why Ron Paul spoke in Honor of Muhammad Ali and introduced the following bill:

H.R. 424: To repeal the Military Selective Service Act

#74 - H.R. 219: Social Security Preservation Act of 2007

2008-01-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

Ron Paul is very outspoken against the welfare state and against programs like Social Security and Medicare that do more damage to the economy than it relieves burdens on American Citizens. Yet, Ron Paul understands due to the life of these programs many generations have become Dependant on these programs.

While Ron Paul wants the current and future generations to stop paying into social security and give them back their money, Ron Paul wants to preserve the current Social Security funds and cut spending elsewhere to take care of those who've already become Dependant on these programs. In that effort he's introduce much legislation such as...

H.R. 219: Social Security Preservation Act of 2007

#73 - H.R. 1898: Child Health Care Affordability Act

2008-01-01T11:27:00.001-08:00

Post #73-#79 will be special looks at legislation introduced by Ron Paul in 2008.

You hear in the democratic debates Obama and Clinton constantly attacking each other on healthcare for children constantly fighting for some regressive universal healthcare program that'll end in probably providing bad healthcare to those kids and still not cover all kids.

Ron Paul while he wants to get rid of the IRS and the income tax has been your friend in getting your tax money back to provide for your family things like education and healthcare, so I Introduce to you.

H.R. 1898: Child Health Care Affordability Act

#72 - Ron Paul in Review 1/1/08

2008-01-01T08:47:00.000-08:00

For the rest of the elections I'll be doing n occasional Ron Paul in Review to bring to light videos and blogs that may be overlooked that I think are pithy and sweet :).

Blogs:

Ron Paul Blimp Greets 2008 in Charlottesville

Ron Paul Praised by American Cops

IA: Polls All Over the Place For Both Parties

ABC, FOX Want To Eliminate Ron Paul

Videos:

#71 - Timebomb: The Crisis of 2008

2007-12-31T11:36:00.000-08:00

2007 has come to a close, and as this video shows, the growing economic crisis has created a ticking time bomb on the life of the USA. This year not only when looking at your presidential candidates, but also in congress you need to make sure the candidates address this economic crisis.

Our Job in the Crisis of 2008

- Return to sound money and put an end to the inflation that is eating away at the savings of the middle class and the poor, preventing them from even attempting to catch up with the upper class.

- Restore our civil liberties that has been loss due to the rise in executive power and the abuse of that power.

- Restore a balanced budget that will aid in our mission to curve inflation.

- Save American and foreign lives and restore a diplomatic foreign policy of commerce and friendship and end the war in Iraq.

I advise people to vote Ron Paul for president as the most knowledgeable and passionate candidate on these issues. I ask that even if you can't support Ron Paul for whatever reason to learn about these issues and help the Freedom Movement do battle with the economic and political forces that are slowly killing out nation.

Learn. Educate. Change the World.

#70 - Corporatism vs. Free Markets

2007-12-31T06:24:00.000-08:00

In a comment on my newest video blog someone asked me to dismiss the myth that Corporatism and the Free Market are one and the same. People make this association feeling that a free market will create lower wages and poverty when it's quite the opposite. Right now what's hurting our country is Corporatism not a Free Market, the US hasn't seen a Free Market in almost a century at least.

We see Corporatism when legislation gets passed that benefits the Lobbyists, or Regulations that reduce competition to these large corporations in the name of protecting the consumer such as the FDA and the FCC. These undermine the most important aspects of a free market, low barriers to entry and competition which is what drives all the positive effects of a free market, leaving only the negative when Corporatism arrives.

A free market with low/no barriers to entry doesn't have the issue of Corporations with to much power, cause it's easy for everyone to create a competing firm. While one competing firm creates no threat, many will wear away at the larger corporations which prevent things like monopolys from happening while creating jobs. Monopolys only happen when the barriers to entry are raised which can only happen from government intervention. The other effect is when this competition comes into play it brings down prices and higher quality and naturally raises wages.

To restore of a free market we need to do the following:

- Abolish the welfare state (minimum wage)
- Get rid of regulatory bodies/laws (FDA, FCC)
- remove/reduce tariffs on imports/exports
- reduce taxes across the board so firms can compete, and the middle class can create new firms
- Strengthen the dollar
- Shrink the government

Even if you against a free market

WE MUST SAVE THE US DOLLAR

#69 - "Ron Paul - House of Cards" NAILS IT ON THE HEAD

2007-12-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

I'm Surprised I never bothered to watch this video before. No matter where you stand on any issue this nails on the head the impending collapse of our country and our only option of turning things around. To ignore these economic issues and not vote Ron Paul is to seal the fate of our Nations existence.

#68 - The Bottom Line About Executive Power

2007-12-30T07:49:00.000-08:00

You have two kinds of people:

Group A: These people believe that executive power is a good and that problems aren't a cause of allowing executive power but cause of people who use it. The problem with this position is that there is no way to truly determine what's "good" use of executive power if it's in the hand of those that wield. Power Corrupts.

Group B: These people think executive power unchecked is dangerous no matter what the intentions or actions that are being taken unilaterally. People have issue with these people cause they worry about rare circumstances in which they would justify unilateral action.

I belong to group B, most of the time there is no reason for executive unchecked power like signing statements and the patriot act and those rare occasions people fear don't seem dire enough to me to justify such dangerous power being wielded.

Sometimes I feel like I'm watching Lord of the Rings, and the one ring is executive power which everyone wants to wield and Ron Paul is the innocent hobbit with a pure heart that can fight off the temptation of power in his quest to destroy it.

So Where do the candidates stand on executive power:

"And while all the Democrats condemned Bush's use of signing statements, Clinton, Edwards, and Obama each said that they would use them too - just less aggressively. Obama said the problem with Bush's signing statements is not the device itself, but rather that Bush has invoked legal theories that most constitutional scholars consider "dubious" when reserving his alleged right to bypass certain laws.

"No one doubts that it is appropriate to use signing statements to protect a president's constitutional prerogatives; unfortunately, the Bush administration has gone much further than that," Obama said.

By contrast, Biden, Dodd, and Richardson called for an end to signing statements altogether.

Among the Republicans, their stance was echoed by McCain and Paul, both of whom said they would never issue a signing statement. Romney, by contrast, praised signing statements as "an important presidential practice.""

#67 - Boycott FOXnews... UNTIL IT'S OFF THE AIR

2007-12-28T21:43:00.000-08:00

Ghandi, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Park, Muhammad Ali, all people who practiced civil disobedience in times when oppression reared it's ugly head. While each a symbol of a movement, they did not stand alone. It was the actions of many individuals that made these symbols resonate so much in the history of the united states.

For no justifiable reason the promoter of Liberty and Civil Disobedience, Ron Paul, has been excluded from the FOXnews forum in New Hampshire with the other presidential candidates. This isn't an isolated instance and Ron Paul isn't the only one who's been slighted in FOXnews oppressive collectivist propaganda. Now there is no redemption for FOXnews, there is only one way to hold them accountable through civil disobedience, BOYCOTT FOX NEWS.

How Long should we boycott FOXnews?

UNTIL THEY ARE OFF THE AIR

Why? FOXnews is not the only news channel or media outlet that has shown it's propagandist colors this election season, but it surely is the worst offender and must no be made an example. An example to media outlets and journalists everywhere that the citizens of the US will not lay silent to problems at home and abroad and demand truly "fair and balanced" coverage of what's going on. When it comes to something as important as the President of the United States, the citizens must be aware of their every option. Not only should Ron Paul be at the presidential forum, but third parties across the nation should be taken seriously and treated as voices of the people by the media.

1. Join the RonPaulForums.com and find the list of FOXnews Sponsers and call them to tell them you are boycotting their products until they stop sponsering FOXnews

2. Tell your local businesses the same

3. Boycott FOXnews itself

It's time to take back the lines of communication in this country back! This is our stand, this is our opportunity to fight for Liberty the way the greatest in history have through civility and pride in our Country and the constitution which holds it together. Don't let your country down and fight this battle to very end.

There is No Victory until FOXnews is off the Air

Check Youtube Tomrrow for a Video Response from Myself

#66 - Freedoms Greatest Hits

2007-12-28T16:08:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

I thought I'd take a moment take a moment to bring up some of the most informative posts here on Cause of Freedom. Again, this blog is about the Freedom Movement and the fight for liberty, so please join the Liberty Independence Alliance to be informed and organize in this fight against tyranny and oppression and effort to preserve the constitution.

ALSO CHECK THE LIA VIDEO SECTION FOR ALL THE BEST VIDEOS

The true path to freedom from slavery is knowledge

PHILOSOPHY

#22 - Collectivism vs. Individualism

#35 - Anarchy, State, and Utopia by Robert Nozick

#36 - Friedrich Hayek and Ron Paul

#47 - Ron Pauls Views on Austrian Economics

#48 - Isaiah Berlin and Positive/Negative Liberty

THE ISSUES

#1 - Introduction and Monetary Policy

#2 - Carbon Tax just Further Intervention

#3 - Civil Liberties and the Free Market

#12 - Immigration and the Language Barrier

OTHER

#5 - Isolationism vs. Non-Interventionism

#6 - The Free Market and the Value of Individuality

#17 - A Parable of Foreign Policies

#23 - The 10th Amendmant

#46 - The Carter and Wolfowitz Doctrines, Interventionist Doctrines

#54 - Why Fight for the Constitution?

#65 - How the Welfare State HURTS the poor (Ron Paul 08)

2007-12-28T07:13:00.000-08:00

Hello,

As a former democrat creating mandates for a minimum standard of living seemed like a very reasonable and humanitarian thing to do, now that I know more about economics and have some regard for the notion property rights I think otherwise. Besides, much of the welfare legislation hurts the poor and middle class it intends to aid in the first place.

The Minimum Wage - While the cost of living has been going up, that is partly due to the welfare state. By forcing higher wages and increasing costs of imports you raise the costs of living (loss of purchasing power), especially these days when most of our goods are imports. When a minimum wage exists a few things happen.

- A firm can only afford to hire less employees, thus we have fewer jobs and people get laid off, which lowers productivity which means more jobs are lost as the company has to downsize or go out of business. With less firms, competition goes down, which lower quality and raises prices.

- In a truly global world, other nations firms are much more competitive wage wise, and so domestic firms face the decision of being put out of business by their competition or outsourcing their work, either way those jobs will be lost.

(NOTE: Ron Paul isn't planning on sending anyone out on the street. He has transitional programs for Social Security and Medicare that would cover those who need it without burdening the younger generation)

Medicare/Medicade - The statistics show more people were covered by health insurance before these programs existed. Without these programs and without all the federal agencies and mandates that favor pharmaceutical companies you'd have an increase demand of health care which expands the market for health insurance which will have the following consequences:

- More health insurance firms will be made to meet demand, creating jobs with benefits.

- Being able to buy insurance across state lines will give people more affordable options, plus increase competition which will lower prices and higher quality cause of competitions agencies

- eventually with all the new agencies a huge spike of the supply and alternatives in health insurance options will create a dip in prices (this wouldn't happen right away, but eventually).

- It also removes the barriers from non-profit and humanitarian groups from providing low cost/free health care to the poor on a local level

Public Schools - First off, Public Schools are mostly run and funded by the states, getting rid of the Department of education would only get rid of the Bureaucracy's and standardized testing that's lower the standard of education. Once the states are able to make decision about their schools you'll see some things happen.

- Different states will try different curriculum's/plans out and some will work better than others, when one state sees another state having a high level of education they will to attract new residents adopt the same system slowly creating a superior and affordable system.

- Some states might privatize schools, this would create huge demand for private schools which would create better paying teaching jobs and low cost schooling cause so many schools will open and begin competing over the new demand.

- Non-profit and Humanitarian organizations will again make sure the poor and needy will be educated without being restricted by the federal government in doing so.

This is the kind of change Ron Paul wants to bring to the US, but of course the congress is a huge barrier in doing so. While Ron Paul is strong on immigration, he ran on open borders in 1988, and still believes in a world with open borders but due to all these social programs hurting our job market and education it's impossible to do so until that has changed. So a world without the welfare state that has better education and more jobs would welcome immigrants with wide open arms.

#64 - Ron Paul and a much needed shift to Foreign Policy

2007-12-27T17:29:00.000-08:00

It reminds me of the idea that they say when one door closes another door opens, and while I am deeply saddened by the death of Bhutto today even in death she continues to serve the cause of freedom by anchoring the US elections to Foreign Policy. Instead of having to be forced into esoterica like the Civil War, Ron Pauls remaining interviews of the day actually focused on what's important, what he'd do as president. As usual Ron Paul provided the Non-Interventionist alternative.

stay out of the INTERNAL affairs of other nations

be neutral and trade and talk to other nations and lead by example

this is what Ron Paul offers, express your thoughts by voting

With foreign policy back to the forefront it brings other candidates like Mccain, Richardson, and Biden back to relevance in the race and puts others like Huckabee, Obama, and Romney back into uncomfortable territory. It will be interesting to see how this effects the Iowa caucuses next week.

I feel the country needs a new direction of Foreign Policy

I feel the Country Needs Ron Paul in 2008

#63 - Ron Paul Honors Muhammad Ali

2007-12-27T05:54:00.000-08:00

These are some more great words from Ron Paul, this one Honor Muhammad Ali.

HONORING MUHAMMAD ALI ON HIS 65TH BIRTHDAY

The United States House of Representative

Jan 17, 2007
Section 38

Rep. Ronald Paul [R-TX]: Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding this time to me.

Quick Info

H. Res. 58: To honor Muhammad Ali, global humanitarian, on the occasion of his 65th birthday and...

Last Action: On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 421 - 0 (Roll no. 33).

Status: Passed House (Bipartisan support.)

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 58. I saw Muhammad Ali as a man of great courage, and I admired him for this, not because of the courage that it took to get in a ring and fight men bigger than he, but because of his stance in 1967.

#62 - Ron Pauls Speech on Patriotism

2007-12-26T20:37:00.000-08:00

See other speeches and a list of bill he's introduced here

Chair: Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 18, 2007, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Paul) is recognized for 60 minutes.

Rep. Ronald Paul [R-TX]: Madam Speaker, for some, patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel. For others, it means dissent against a government's abuse of the people's rights.

I have never met a politician in Washington or any American, for that matter, who chose to be called unpatriotic. Nor have I met anyone who did not believe he wholeheartedly supported our troops, wherever they may be.

What I have heard all too frequently from the various individuals are sharp accusations that, because their political opponents disagree with them on the need for foreign military entanglements, they were unpatriotic, un-American evildoers deserving contempt.

The original American patriots were those individuals brave enough to resist with force the oppressive power of King George. I accept the definition of patriotism as that effort to resist oppressive state power.

The true patriot is motivated by a sense of responsibility and out of self-interest for himself, his family, and the future of his country to resist government abuse of power. He rejects the notion that patriotism means obedience to the state. Resistance need not be violent, but the civil disobedience that might be required involves confrontation with the state and invites possible imprisonment.

Peaceful, nonviolent revolutions against tyranny have been every bit as successful as those involving military confrontation. Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., achieved great political successes by practicing nonviolence, and yet they suffered physically at the hands of the state. But whether the resistance against government tyrants is nonviolent or physically violent, the effort to overthrow state oppression qualifies as true patriotism.

True patriotism today has gotten a bad name, at least from the government and the press. Those who now challenge the unconstitutional methods of imposing an income tax on us, or force us to use a monetary system designed to serve the rich at the expense of the poor are routinely condemned. These American patriots are sadly looked down upon by many. They are never praised as champions of liberty as Gandhi and Martin Luther King have been.

Liberals, who withhold their taxes as a protest against war, are vilified as well, especially by conservatives. Unquestioned loyalty to the state is especially demanded in times of war. Lack of support for a war policy is said to be unpatriotic. Arguments against a particular policy that endorses a war, once it is started, are always said to be endangering the troops in the field. This, they blatantly claim, is unpatriotic, and all dissent must stop. Yet, it is dissent from government policies that defines the true patriot and champion of liberty.

It is conveniently ignored that the only authentic way to best support the troops is to keep them out of danger's undeclared no-win wars that are politically inspired. Sending troops off to war for reasons that are not truly related to national security and, for that matter, may even damage our security, is hardly a way to patriotically support the troops.

Who are the true patriots, those who conform or those who protest against wars without purpose? How can it be said that blind support for a war, no matter how misdirected the policy, is the duty of a patriot?

Randolph Bourne said that, "War is the health of the state." With war, he argued, the state thrives. Those who believe in the powerful state see war as an opportunity. Those who mistrust the people and the market for solving problems have no trouble promoting a "war psychology" to justify the expansive role of the state. This includes the role the Federal Government plays in our lives, as well as in our economic transactions.

Certainly, the neoconservative belief that we have a moral obligation to spread American values worldwide through force justifies the conditions of war in order to rally support at home for the heavy hand of government. It is through this policy, it should surprise no one, that our liberties are undermined. The economy becomes overextended, and our involvement worldwide becomes prohibited. Out of fear of being labeled unpatriotic, most of the citizens become compliant and accept the argument that some loss of liberty is required to fight the war in order to remain safe.

This is a bad trade-off, in my estimation, especially when done in the name of patriotism. Loyalty to the state and to autocratic leaders is substituted for true patriotism, that is, a willingness to challenge the state and defend the country, the people and the culture. The more difficult the times, the stronger the admonition comes that the leaders be not criticized.

Because the crisis atmosphere of war supports the growth of the state, any problem invites an answer by declaring war, even on social and economic issues. This elicits patriotism in support of various government solutions, while enhancing the power of the state. Faith in government coercion and a lack of understanding of how free societies operate encourages big government liberals and big government conservatives to manufacture a war psychology to demand political loyalty for domestic policy just as is required in foreign affairs.

The long-term cost in dollars spent and liberties lost is neglected as immediate needs are emphasized. It is for this reason that we have multiple perpetual wars going on simultaneously. Thus, the war on drugs, the war against gun ownership, the war against poverty, the war against illiteracy, the war against terrorism, as well as our foreign military entanglements are endless.

All this effort promotes the growth of statism at the expense of liberty. A government designed for a free society should do the opposite, prevent the growth of statism and preserve liberty.

Once a war of any sort is declared, the message is sent out not to object or you will be declared unpatriotic. Yet, we must not forget that the true patriot is the one who protests in spite of the consequences. Condemnation or ostracism or even imprisonment may result.

Nonviolent protesters of the Tax Code are frequently imprisoned, whether they are protesting the code's unconstitutionality or the war that the tax revenues are funding. Resisters to the military draft or even to Selective Service registration are threatened and imprisoned for challenging this threat to liberty.

Statism depends on the idea that the government owns us and citizens must obey. Confiscating the fruits of our labor through the income tax is crucial to the health of the state. The draft, or even the mere existence of the Selective Service, emphasizes that we will march off to war at the state's pleasure.

A free society rejects all notions of involuntary servitude, whether by draft or the confiscation of the fruits of our labor through the personal income tax. A more sophisticated and less well-known technique for enhancing the state is the manipulation and transfer of wealth through the fiat monetary system operated by the secretive Federal Reserve.

Protesters against this unconstitutional system of paper money are considered unpatriotic criminals and at times are imprisoned for their beliefs. The fact that, according to the Constitution, only gold and silver are legal tender and paper money outlawed matters little. The principle of patriotism is turned on its head. Whether it's with regard to the defense of welfare spending at home, confiscatory income tax, or an immoral monetary system or support for a war fought under false pretense without a legal declaration, the defenders of liberty and the Constitution are portrayed as unpatriotic, while those who support these programs are seen as the patriots.

If there is a war going on, supporting the state's effort to win the war is expected at all costs, no dissent. The real problem is that those who love the state too often advocate policies that lead to military action. At home, they are quite willing to produce a crisis atmosphere and claim a war is needed to solve the problem. Under these conditions, the people are more willing to bear the burden of paying for the war and to carelessly sacrifice liberties which they are told is necessary.

The last 6 years have been quite beneficial to the health of the state, which comes at the expense of personal liberty. Every enhanced unconstitutional power of the state can only be achieved at the expense of individual liberty. Even though in every war in which we have been engaged civil liberties have suffered, some have been restored after the war ended, but never completely. That has resulted in a steady erosion of our liberties over the past 200 years. Our government was originally designed to protect our liberties, but it has now, instead, become the usurper of those liberties.

We currently live in the most difficult of times for guarding against an expanding central government with a steady erosion of our freedoms. We are continually being reminded that 9/11 has changed everything.

Unfortunately, the policy that needed most to be changed, that is our policy of foreign interventionism, has only been expanded. There is no pretense any longer that a policy of humility in foreign affairs, without being the world's policemen and engaging in nation building, is worthy of consideration.

We now live in a post-9/11 America where our government is going to make us safe no matter what it takes. We are expected to grin and bear it and adjust to every loss of our liberties in the name of patriotism and security.

Though the majority of Americans initially welcomed the declared effort to make us safe, and we are willing to sacrifice for the cause, more and more Americans are now becoming concerned about civil liberties being needlessly and dangerously sacrificed.

The problem is that the Iraq war continues to drag on, and a real danger of it spreading exists. There is no evidence that a truce will soon be signed in Iraq or in the war on terror or the war on drugs. Victory is not even definable. If Congress is incapable of declaring an official war, it is impossible to know when it will end. We have been fully forewarned that the world conflict in which we are now engaged will last a long, long time.

The war mentality and the pervasive fear of an unidentified enemy allows for a steady erosion of our liberties, and, with this, our respect for self-reliance and confidence is lost. Just think of the self-sacrifice and the humiliation we go through at the airport screening process on a routine basis. Though there is no scientific evidence of any likelihood of liquids and gels being mixed on an airplane to make a bomb, billions of dollars are wasted throwing away toothpaste and hair spray, and searching old women in wheelchairs.

Our enemies say, boo, and we jump, we panic, and then we punish ourselves. We are worse than a child being afraid of the dark. But in a way, the fear of indefinable terrorism is based on our inability to admit the truth about why there is a desire by a small number of angry radical Islamists to kill Americans. It is certainly not because they are jealous of our wealth and freedoms.

We fail to realize that the extremists, willing to sacrifice their own lives to kill their enemies, do so out of a sense of weakness and desperation over real and perceived attacks on their way of life, their religion, their country, and their natural resources. Without the conventional diplomatic or military means to retaliate against these attacks, and an unwillingness of their own government to address the issue, they resort to the desperation tactic of suicide terrorism. Their anger toward their own governments, which they believe are coconspirators with the American Government, is equal to or greater than that directed toward us.

These errors in judgment in understanding the motive of the enemy and the constant fear that is generated have brought us to this crisis where our civil liberties and privacy are being steadily eroded in the name of preserving national security.

We may be the economic and the military giant of the world, but the effort to stop this war on our liberties here at home in the name of patriotism is being lost.

The erosion of our personal liberties started long before 9/11, but 9/11 accelerated the process. There are many things that motivate those who pursue this course, both well-intentioned and malevolent, but it would not happen if the people remained vigilant, understood the importance of individual rights, and were unpersuaded that a need for security justifies the sacrifice for liberty, even if it is just now and then.

The true patriot challenges the state when the state embarks on enhancing its power at the expense of the individual. Without a better understanding and a greater determination to rein in the state, the rights of Americans that resulted from the revolutionary break from the British and the writing of the Constitution will disappear.

The record since September 11th is dismal. Respect for liberty has rapidly deteriorated. Many of the new laws passed after 9/11 had, in fact, been proposed long before that attack. The political atmosphere after that attack simply made it more possible to pass such legislation. The fear generated by 9/11 became an opportunity for those seeking to promote the power of the state domestically, just as it served to falsely justify the long plan for invasion of Iraq.

The war mentality was generated by the Iraq war in combination with the constant drumbeat of fear at home. Al Qaeda and Osama bin Laden, who is now likely residing in Pakistan, our supposed ally, are ignored, as our troops fight and die in Iraq and are made easier targets for the terrorists in their backyard. While our leaders constantly use the mess we created to further justify the erosion of our constitutional rights here at home, we forget about our own borders and support the inexorable move toward global government, hardly a good plan for America.

The accelerated attacks on liberty started quickly after 9/11. Within weeks, the PATRIOT Act was overwhelmingly passed by Congress. Though the final version was unavailable up to a few hours before the vote, no Member had sufficient time. Political fear of not doing something, even something harmful, drove the Members of Congress to not question the contents, and just voted for it. A little less freedom for a little more perceived safety was considered a fair trade-off, and the majority of Americans applauded.

The PATRIOT Act, though, severely eroded the system of checks and balances by giving the government the power to spy on law-abiding citizens without judicial supervision. The several provisions that undermine the liberties of all Americans include sneak-and-peek searches, a broadened and more vague definition of domestic terrorism, allowing the FBI access to libraries and bookstore records without search warrants or probable cause, easier FBI initiation of wiretaps and searches, as well as roving wiretaps, easier access to information on American citizens' use of the Internet, and easier access to e-mail and financial records of all American citizens.

The attack on privacy has not relented over the past 6 years. The Military Commissions Act is a particularly egregious piece of legislation and, if not repealed, will change America for the worse as the powers unconstitutionally granted to the executive branch are used and abused. This act grants excessive authority to use secretive military commissions outside of places where active hostilities are going on. The Military Commissions Act permits torture, arbitrary detention of American citizens as unlawful enemy combatants at the full discretion of the President and without the right of habeas corpus, and warrantless searches by the NSA. It also gives to the President the power to imprison individuals based on secret testimony.

Since 9/11, Presidential signing statements designating portions of legislation that the President does not intend to follow, though not legal under the Constitution, have enormously multiplied. Unconstitutional Executive Orders are numerous and mischievous and need to be curtailed.

Extraordinary rendition to secret prisons around the world have been widely engaged in, though obviously extralegal.

A growing concern in the post-9/11 environment is the Federal Government's list of potential terrorists based on secret evidence. Mistakes are made, and sometimes it is virtually impossible to get one's name removed even though the accused is totally innocent of any wrongdoing.

A national ID card is now in the process of being implemented. It is called the REAL ID card, and it is tied to our Social Security numbers and our State driver's license. If REAL ID is not stopped, it will become a national driver's license ID for all Americans. We will be required to carry our papers.

Some of the least noticed and least discussed changes in the law were the changes made to the Insurrection Act of 1807 and to posse comitatus by the Defense Authorization Act of 2007. These changes pose a threat to the survival of our Republic by giving the President the power to declare martial law for as little reason as to restore public order. The 1807 act severely restricted the President in his use of the military within the United States borders, and the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 strengthened these restrictions with strict oversight by Congress. The new law allows the President to circumvent the restrictions of both laws. The Insurrection Act has now become the "Enforcement of the Laws to Restore Public Order Act." This is hardly a title that suggests that the authors cared about or understood the nature of a constitutional Republic.

Now, martial law can be declared not just for insurrection, but also for natural disasters, public health reasons, terrorist attacks or incidents, or for the vague reason called "other conditions." The President can call up the National Guard without congressional approval or the Governors' approval, and even send these State Guard troops into other States.

The American Republic is in remnant status. The stage is set for our country eventually devolving into a military dictatorship, and few seem to care. These precedent-setting changes in the law are extremely dangerous and will change American jurisprudence forever if not revised. The beneficial results of our revolt against the King's abuses are about to be eliminated, and few Members of Congress and few Americans are aware of the seriousness of the situation. Complacency and fear drive our legislation without any serious objection by our elected leaders. Sadly, though, those few who do object to this self-evident trend away from personal liberty and empire building overseas are portrayed as unpatriotic and uncaring.

Though welfare and socialism always fails, opponents of them are said to lack compassion. Though opposition to totally unnecessary war should be the only moral position, the rhetoric is twisted to claim that patriots who oppose the war are not supporting the troops. The cliche "Support the Troops" is incessantly used as a substitute for the unacceptable notion of supporting the policy, no matter how flawed it may be.

Unsound policy can never help the troops. Keeping the troops out of harm's way and out of wars unrelated to our national security is the only real way of protecting the troops. With this understanding, just who can claim the title of "patriot"?

Before the war in the Middle East spreads and becomes a world conflict for which we will be held responsible, or the liberties of all Americans become so suppressed we can no longer resist, much has to be done. Time is short, but our course of action should be clear. Resistance to illegal and unconstitutional usurpation of our rights is required. Each of us must choose which course of action we should take: education, conventional political action, or even peaceful civil disobedience to bring about necessary changes.

But let it not be said that we did nothing. Let not those who love the power of the welfare/warfare state label the dissenters of authoritarianism as unpatriotic or uncaring. Patriotism is more closely linked to dissent than it is to conformity and a blind desire for safety and security. Understanding the magnificent rewards of a free society makes us unbashful in its promotion, fully realizing that maximum wealth is created and the greatest chance for peace comes from a society respectful of individual liberty.

#61 - Clarification about Ron Pauls Civil War stance

2007-12-26T16:14:00.000-08:00

Ok, everyone seems to really missed the point as to what Ron Paul was saying about the Civil War. Chris Matthews implied that being against Civil War means being for Slavery.

THE CIVIL WAR WASN'T ONLY ABOUT SLAVERY, this is Ron Pauls point, which is why he mentioned Slavery being on the decline. He posed the possibility of buying the slaves to show that if the war was about slavery there were better alternatives.

(if you think the US couldn't afford to buy the slaves, they had just formed a central bank to fund the war... so they could afford to spend for the war, they could afford to buy the slaves and release them)

The War was solely to prevent the States from from exercising their constitutional rights to secede which had more to deal more with Tariffs than slavery. Abe Lincoln like Bush suspended Habeas Corpus and abused opponent civil liberties to reach his ends.

If you condone this behavior from a president, then you cannot criticize Bush.

Remember, the winners write history.

#60 - Liberty isn't Easy, Ron Paul for Freedom

2007-12-26T07:44:00.000-08:00

The Moment you stop fighting for Liberty You begin losing Liberty

This is what seems to be forgotten by the left, who criticize Ron Paul's aversion from letting Central Government control the states and individuals to make decisions for themselves in accordance to many issues, usually referring to sodomy laws in Texas. While these laws are ridiculous, and Ron Paul would agree, to give the issue to the central government is to say that the federal government can regulate social behavior even if the intent is one of liberty, this precedence gives authority for even greater controls on a national level.

Laws like the sodomy laws in Texas should be fought on the state level by getting involved and civil disobedience which Ron Paul continually endorses as great methods of change. Although, we can't for the sake of our liberty bring this to the Federal level and this is where this ideological divide occurs. The left feels that if the Federal Government just takes authority that then they can make the laws with the intention of protecting and granting rights and engineering an ideal society (same as the Neo-Cons), they differ on what their ideal society is.

The Left Feels the federal government should be used to promote protection from exposure to each others ideology while granting rights to certain individuals to create some fictional balance between humanly constructed people groups and force individuals to make decisions about their consumption and personal property that fall in their definition of ideal for the environment and social welfare cause of some imposed sense of what everyone elses responsibility to others should be.

This is the same Logic Neo-Cons use to justify using the federal government to promote a Fundamentalist Christian state where laws determine personally "moral" behavior where outside cultural influences are dealt with by military coercion to the principles of those in control of the state.

Ron Paul is fighting for freedom from both versions of a tyrannical state, where you can believe and act as you please, and so can he. Everybody wins in a Ron Paul world no matter how you differ on issues cause Liberty serves all ideals. Stripping the Federal government of it's accumulated power is the first step, but afterwards the battle for freedom on a local level occurs and is a fight that will always be fought but is much easier to manage. The fight never ends, but as anything can be manageable when broken into smaller chunks.

To Preserve Liberty is to preserve the ability for individuals to believe in something you don't agree with, and to protect the actions of those that you don't condone. Ron Paul has stood for this and this protection of Liberty is being used to criticize the most Honest American I'll ever have the pleasure of voting for.

#59 - Ron Paul & The Debt/Monetary Crisis

2007-12-26T07:01:00.000-08:00

502 Billion dollars... that's a lot of new dollars. If i understand this right this means Inflation is going to get pretty ridiculous. No matter how you feel about any candidate, Ron Paul is the only one who understands economics from being part of the Mises Institute and is the only one that talks about it. All the candidates talk about fiscal responsibility, yet none of them seem to understand it, with a crashing economy there will be no nation to argue this silly argument about who gets what rights, and who believes what.

Ron Paul is the only choice for president cause of our weak economy, Period.

#58 - Pundit Bill Kristols Vendetta against Ron Paul

2007-12-25T18:55:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

Today on the Ron Paul forums someone exposed the vendetta of Neoconservative Pundit, Bill Kristol. I still haven't got quite this far in the tome of knowledge that is Ron Paul's "Foreign policy of Freedom", but this is a find that really explains Kirstols extreme hostility towards Paul on a appearance on FoxNews where he calls Ron Paul a crackpot and unamerican for saying diplomacy and tact would save American lives by preventing wars. It's funny the more people have dug the more it has appeared many people with influence have strong reasons to undermine Pauls candidacy cause of his views of small government which many of his detractors pretend to support.

Iowa is a little over a week away, then the world will finally know where Paul stands in far as actual voters, it's gonna be a nail biter. Ron Paul, your freedoms last chance.