Sandy, thanks so much for visiting and commenting! I wrote this post on the heels of a great radio show I heard about Jerry Falwell. One of the commentators (wish I could remember who!) stated how the GOP is able to compete these days (since Reagan) due to three segments of voters: 1. Those who want a small, non-invasive government, property protection rights, and “laissez faire” economy. 2. Those who want a strong foreign policy and well protected homeland. 3. Those who are conservative in their religious beliefs and are concerned about their children’s faith being eroded due to conflicting ideals being taught in public schools, as well as public policy conflicting with their general religious beliefs (i.e. gay marriage and abortion). I’m not informed enough to know how valid this picture is, but to me it explains a lot. Personally, I am all about #1. I am an entrepreneur and business advocate - I love to work and try to share that passion with other too. On the second note, I am undecided because of lack of knowledge. Seems like war has always been a part of the human comedy, but does it have to be that way in the future? I don’t know, but I’m willing to work and make it less so. The last note, which relates mostly to Jerry Falwell, is where I’m really out of my element. I have absolute faith in god, but little exposure to organized religion. While I embrace some of the ideals (charity, forgiveness, and unity) there is a lot about religion I just don’t get. But hey, there is still time to learn I guess. Anyway, back to the GOP. From the radio show commentator’s point about the three types of republican voters, it seems to me that the GOP is focused on a lot more than Christian ideals, but its the voters that hold those ideals as their main issue help the GOP get into office. And with the war getting such low public approval, does it make sense for any GOP candidate to distance themselves from Christian ideals? I guess the problem I’ve had with the Republican Party in general is that they do not seem to care much about social issues, and as I understand it more apt to cut funding to welfare programs and education. Even though I am pro-business, I really think if businesses are going to prosper, they need an educated and healthy workforce.

The Christian coalition changed the platform of the Republican Party and it might end up destroying it. There are many of us old Goldwater supporters have not been able to vote for any Conservative candidate and we are getting annoyed with the assumption that all Republicans are evangelical Christians. Can anyone remember when any Republican voted to retain our individual freedoms? I would love to return to the GOP but it will have to represent all freedom-loving Americans.