Are these too too deep?
Basic Republican Principles
From
its inception in 1854 and from its earliest stands against the
oppressive institution of slavery, the Republican Party has defined
itself as the protector of individual freedom. Today, 140 years later,
we, of the WSU College Republicans, reaffirm our commitment as
Republicans in the cause of freedom and liberty. And we redirect our
course back to the basic tenets of our common Republican philosophy--a
philosophy which includes among its components:
- A Belief in
Smaller Government: To preserve the sanctity of liberty of the
individual, it is our belief that government must necessarily be
limited. Otherwise, the paternalism of the few would restrict the
freedom of the many to decide what is best for themselves.
- Support
of the Federalist System of Government: To bring power closer to the
people, it is imperative we restrict the growth of a centralized
federal government....States ought to have the power to determine which
programs and measures would be most appropriate and fitting for them.
- Fiscal
Conservatism: In keeping with our desires for the greatest individual
liberty, we support policies of limited taxation and government
spending.
- Strong National Defense: We believe the best way to
preserve the peace and protect our national interests abroad comes
through a strong national defense.
- Individual Liberties and
Responsibilities: Along with individual liberties come individual
responsibilities and duties. Government must act to preserve freedom,
while individuals must exercise their responsibilities to preserve
order.
- Tolerance, Inclusiveness, and Optimism: We believe in
the right of fellow Republicans to disagree on certain matters of
principle and policy. We believe in being an open and inclusive party
respectful of different points of view. We are indeed a "big-tent" party
that offers no "litmus tests" or barriers to entry.
The Republican Oath
I
believe that the proper function of government is to do for the people
those things that have to be done but cannot be done, or cannot be done
as well by individuals, and that the most effective government is
government closest to the people.
I believe that good government
is based on the individual and that each person's ability, dignity,
freedom and responsibility must be honored and recognized.
I
believe that free enterprise and the encouragement of individual
initiative and incentive have given this nation an economic system
second to none.
I believe that sound money policy should be our goal.
I
believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all,
regardless of race, creed, age, sex or national origin. I believe that
persons with disabilities should be afforded equal rights, equal
justice and equal opportunity as well.
I believe we must retain
those principles worth retaining, yet always be receptive to new ideas
with an outlook broad enough to accommodate thoughtful change and
varying points of view.
I believe that Americans value and should
preserve their feeling of national strength and pride, and at the same
time share with people everywhere a desire for peace and freedom and
the extension of human rights throughout the world.
Finally, I
believe that the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating
these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.