Not all Christians are Republicans,... what?!

And the ones who aren't, may not necessarily be Democrats either. Mckmama posted a blog last night about her political views and it prompted me to share a bit about mine... in a nice, civil kind of way.

I think, generally speaking, most people really only see two ways to believe politically. As my views started to form and change from what I learned as a child, I realized that I just did not fit into either of the two main party platforms we have going. I am very much a small gov. kind of girl but I am starting to realize that the things most Christians care about being legislated, I just don't agree with. I don't agree with legislating personal morals and freedoms (as an aside so people don't misinterpret what I say, I don't think abortion falls into the realm of a right or freedom women should have.. more on that another time but I don't want to get too heavy today). I think that goes against the core of our country. People came to and formed this country based on the ideal that a government only served a very minimal role in society and that role was definitely not police peoples moral and religious views. And please... lets not get into the whole "this country was based on Christian principles" stuff. Most of the founding fathers were deists and I think understanding that alone allows us to see the intent was not to funnel everyone into the "christian way" of doing things. Not saying Christian principles are unimportant (obviously, since I choose to live by them) but I think belief and faith are very personal things that should not color what our nation was founded on. And that happens to be individual freedoms. Ideally we should remain free to do as we please unless it causes harm to others. Now, granted, this requires a great deal of personal responsibility but I also believe that is another founding principle. A principle that I believe is no longer in tact and that fuels a lot of the current socialist motives.

So... where do I land then? I am firmly in the Libertarian camp on most issues. Small government, lower taxes, more freedom. There are a few things I disagree with. But I want the government out of my business and life. I want a return of personal responsibility. I want personal freedoms. I don't care to legislate things such as homosexuality, where the 10 commandments can and can't be displayed, or gun control (as heavily as it is anyway, I disagree with no legislation at all though). I think parents should be able to decides for themselves what they do and don't do for their children. Basically, if it doesn't threaten anothers' physical well being, I am not too worried about it. I think bailouts are crazy and ridiculous and I am all about the free market. Really, I think most of my views are a return to true conservatism (conserving what our country was founded on) but that is just my humble opinion ;)

During the last presidential election (only my 2nd presidential election), I decided to hang up the idea that I will ever agree with a Republican or Democratic representative as things are. And I voted 3rd party. I am assuming this will be a trend for me as Republicans seem to get further away from small government and embrace legislating things I feel they have no right legislating. I am often asked why I am willing to vote 3rd party because it is like I am casting a useless vote. I don't feel that way... I feel like we need to build up a 3rd party and my votes can help do that. My vote can help get the party to a point where they receive government funds that would allow them to actually compete with the 2 main parties. And plus, I feel like it is my responsibility as a voter to actually vote for the person I think would do the best job for our country.

I definitely have my opinions on many political issues and I plan to share them at some point but I actually just really enjoy discussing politics. I know it is one of those taboo subjects but I think it is fascinating and interesting to look at how people come to their conclusions about what is best for a country we all love and call home. As always, comments are welcome... Have a great day!