Fourth of July thoughts

Supporters and followers,

As we have celebrated this 4th of July, America's own birthday, under fireworks and over good food, let us not forget what those loud cracks and bright lights represent. They represent every gunshot fired for freedom, every American soul sacrificed, and every principle that makes this the greatest nation in the world, bar-none.

My question to you is: what principles do you believe make this the greatest nation in the world? My response is quite simple; we are the greatest because we are a republic. We are a republic of laws and principles that reward merit and hard-work. We are capitalists and innovators and perhaps most importantly we are advocates of freedom and democracy. Like most of you, I feel all of this greatness slipping away.

After the Constitutional Convention, a woman asked Benjamin Franklin what kind of government they had created. Franklin responded in a way that truly exhibits the nature of how harmful radical action can be. He answered her question saying, "A Republic, madam. If you can keep it."

We must realize that we are on the verge of losing our Republic. We have given up control to radical liberals and progressives that now threaten the very existence of what we have known to be so great. This is truly a pivotal moment in history, that will define the future of freedom in America. Rest assured, there are many good people fighting day and night to secure what the Founding Fathers set up, including your very own UMKC College Republicans.

As we celebrated our independence from big, oppressive government this month of July, please remember that 234 years ago, the right combination of individual rights and a system of government, designed to be checked and balanced, was created by the bravest men in the history of mankind. As you compare the character of our Founders with the character of the majority of the men and women leading our country today, I hope you are spurred into taking action against the radical changes that are being shoved down our throats. Government is only as good as the people holding office. It is our duty as citizens and patriots to elect and support those who reflect the American attitude expressed on July 4th, 1776.

Respectfully,

Austin J. Hunt

Vice-Chairman, UMKC College Republicans