I think its time for us to stop running away from the left wing of our party. If we truly believe in saving the environment, gay rights, a sound public education system, a living wage and a decent affordable health care system, then we need to stand up and say so.
As a middle of the road Dem all my life, I am tired of trying to tiptoe around the center and not ruffle any feathers. I believe in those things - I truly, truly do - and I want to be a member of a party that supports those ideals.
More below the fold ....
I believe in God. I also believe that the separation of Church and State is good for both Church and State
I believe that strong environmental policies can lead to a boom in business and investment opportunities
I believe that controlled immigration makes us stronger and that forcing people to use illegal means to come across the border puts us more at risk by encouraging those illegal byways to flourish.
I believe in a strong military but not one that sucks our domestic resources dry to support defense contractors and not our soldiers.
I strongly believe in the right of every individual to do pretty much what they want unless they infringe on another person or their property.
I believe the right to choose is between a woman, her God, and her doctor and anyone else she chooses to include in the equation. I also think there is a point between being a clump cells and being a person where we should draw a bright and shining line.
I believe this country is rich enough to take care of its citizens without begrudging those who need more care than others.
I believe that some things are too vital to be left entirely to the free market system - this includes health care, education, energy and the price of milk. I believe there is a reasonable balance between regulation and business interests.
I believe in global warming and I think we are all going to be very sorry some day that we didn't take it more seriously.
I do not mind paying taxes. I really truly do not mind paying taxes. It is a small price to pay to live in the greatest country in the world. Dollar for dollar, I believe what my taxes get me is a bargain compared to what those things would cost on the open market.
I believe that we should be a good neighbor in the world and that we should lead by example on issues such as health, the environment and nuclear proliferation. I believe that strong alliances make us stronger and we should honor them even when its not always convenient.
I believe that if I apply myself every day I can make a difference.
I want to be a member of a political party that can best put my beliefs into action. If the Democratic party can't do it then I will register as an Independent or a Green or something else. No matter what, I think I have finally figured out what I believe in.
What do you believe?