Regardless, there is no cowardice in either party.  The GOP is currently tasked with protecting the American People.  Their hearts are indeed in the right place.

As for the erosion of Liberty, that can be easily explained.  Very, very few governments throughout history have ever given up power willingly.  Think about it - would you support additional obstacles in the execution of your job?  Of course not.  It is generally for others to keep your methods in check.  Look to the legislature.

As for Patrick Henry, I don't think most of you would have liked him.  "Give me liberty or give me death".  Very noble.  He would have fought valiantly against the strong federal government that has developed after the Civil War.  He wanted strong local government that pays tribute to a small federal government that serves only for national defence, to resolve disputes between the states, and to protect the most basic of citizen rights.  Everything else was to be left to the states.  Federal social programs, institutions like FEMA, etc. would NEVER have existed if it were up to him.  Government would be small, very small - run by unpaid volunteer politicians.  Not something I suspect most of you would approve of.