[Note: This post is co-authored with Matthew Anderson and Justin Taylor.]
When it comes to politics, we three are pragmatic idealists. We are dedicated to the pursuit of noble principles and goals while never forgetting that politics is the "art of the possible." Because we are idealists we are choosing to endorse a candidate who most aligns with our principles and values and is most worthy of our sacred trust. Because we are pragmatists we are choosing to endorse the one candidate who we believe is most capable of defeating Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Because we are pragmatic idealists we are endorsing Gov. Mike Huckabee.
For several months we have admired the scrappy campaign of Gov. Huckabee but believed it would be a wasted effort to support him with our time, energy, and finances. We bought into the notion that he could never get the GOP nomination since conservative voters would not support him. And the reason we were told conservative voters would never support him is because he could not get the nomination. To quote John Piper (from a different context), "It's like the army being defeated because there aren't enough troops, and the troops won't sign up because the army's being defeated."
We can no longer sit idly by and allow the campaign of a worthy candidate and an honorable man to flounder for lack of support.
Only after prayerfully considering the issues, the candidates, and the electoral calculus have we decided to settle on this joint endorsement. We hope that you will join us in careful deliberation of Gov. Huckabee's candidacy and that you will join us in pledging to cast a sacred vote for the office of President of the United States. Our army may go down in defeat, but it won't be because we refused to enlist in this worthy cause.
- Matthew Anderson (Mere Orthodoxy)
- Joe Carter (Evangelical Outpost)
- Justin Taylor (Between Two Worlds)
Addendum: We hope to persuade other conservatives that Gov. Huckabee is capable of not only appealing to the three legs of the conservative coalition--social conservatives, fiscal conservatives, and defense conservatives--but to a broader confederation of Republicans and independents. The following is our reasons and rationale:
Social conservatives. Gov. Huckabee is by far the most socially conservative candidate running for President. He supports passage of constitutional amendments to protect the right to life and the definition of marriage; he opposes embryo-destructive research and promises to veto any pro-abortion legislation; he supports policies that ensure children receive "a quality education, first-rate health care, decent housing in a safe neighborhood, and clean air and drinking water"; he proposes a nine point Veteran's Bill of Rights; and he emphasizes that there is a religious and moral imperative to conserve resources and protect God's creation.
Defense conservatives. Gov. Huckabee vows to remain vigilant in the "world war" against Islamic extremism and says that "this threat is one that we cannot negotiate, accommodate, or placate--it is one which we must eradicate"; he supports the Powell Doctrine of using overwhelming force to accomplish a mission; he believes that "Iraq is a battle in our generational, ideological war on terror" and is committed to defeating Al Qaeda there in order to bring stability to the country; he supports a regional summit so that Iraq's neighbors become financially and militarily committed to stabilizing Iraq now rather than financially and militarily committed to widening the war later; he is a strong supporter of Israel, "the only fully-functioning democracy in the Middle East, and our greatest friend in that region"; he believes that securing the border is a national security measure and must be done immediately.
Fiscal conservatives. Gov. Huckabee is a candidate that should appeal to fiscal conservatives. He has signed the Presidential Taxpayer Protection Pledge which binds the signer to "oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates for individuals and/or businesses ... and oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and credits, unless matched dollar for dollar by further reducing tax rates"; he supports the FairTax, which would abolish the IRS and replace the Internal Revenue Code with a consumption tax; he believes in free trade (that is, fair trade) and claims that "globalization, done right, done fairly, can be the equivalent of a big pay raise by allowing us to buy things more cheaply."
Some of us were initially duped by the white paper on Huckabee that was released by the Club for Growth. Even though CFG is slightly outside of the mainstream on conservative fiscal policies (CFG is to fiscal conservatism what the Christian Coalition is to social conservatism), we respect the organization and appreciate their valuable work. Nevertheless, we were dismayed by their report that was at times misleading, if not outright dishonest.
We acknowledge that the Club for Growth believes that state sales taxes should never be increased to pay for such entitlements as education, Medicare, highways, and economic development. We understand that this is the reason that they oppose Gov. Huckabee's record. But we believe that most Americans--and most conservatives--are not minarchists. We do not think the fiscal conservative bona fides of a man who cut taxes and fees almost 100 times, saving the taxpayers almost $380 million, and left a surplus of nearly $850 million should be denigrated because he took such actions as implementing a 1/8-cent sales tax hike. Although we respect the CFC, we are dismayed at the disingenuous means that the group has used to smear the Governor's character. (We plan to issue a point-by-point response to the white paper in a future post.)
Of course, Gov. Huckabee is not a perfect candidate. No candidate ever is or ever will be. But we believe that he possesses qualities that should be appealing and encouraging to all branches of conservatives.
Just as importantly, Gov. Huckabee has the ability to appeal to non-conservative voters. He's charming and charismatic, a gifted speaker with a quick wit and disarming sense of humor. He is the anti-Hillary.
In many ways, Gov. Huckabee is also an antithesis of President Bush. He has a real chance of being the successor, at least in one aspect, to the Great Communicator, Ronald Reagan. Conservatism--and the country--have been deeply hindered by President Bush's inability to communicate the conservative vision. "Huckabee is something that the party needs," noted David Brooks of the New York Times. "He is a solid conservative who is both temperamentally and substantively different from the conservatives who have led the country over the past few years."
As Jonathan Alter, senior editor of Newsweek, recently wrote:
The GOP is in a deep hole and keeps digging. Even after Mike Huckabee won big among attendees at last week's "Values Voters Convention," many evangelicals have been telling the former Arkansas governor--and onetime Baptist minister--that they like him but won't back him because he can't beat Hillary Clinton. They have it exactly backward. He may be the only Republican candidate with a decent chance to beat the Democrats next November.
Some of the reasons include the weakness of the other candidates, especially Rudy Giuliani: "[The Mayor's] positions on Iraq, S-CHIP and the need for anti-abortion Supreme Court justices are all deeply unpopular in Blue States and would be hung around his neck next fall." He is also unacceptable to social conservatives and other religious voters. Mitt Romney is considered too slick, too corporate, too calculating, and too Mormon. And Fred Thompson, as Alter notes, "is not ready for prime time."
Huckabee also has an engrossing personal story. Alter continues:
Voters in general elections are less ideological than in primaries and more intrigued by a compelling personal narrative. Huckabee's story hits closer to home than any other. After chest pains and a diagnosis of diabetes, he lost more than 100 pounds with diet and exercise. He tells the story with wit and grace (as well as the one about his wife's cancer diagnosis many years ago) and would kill on Oprah. When Huckabee talks about broader health-care issues he does more than brag about Arkansas's success under his leadership. He speaks in a folksy and comprehensible way that would match up well against Hillary's facts and figures or Obama's abstractions. The same holds true on education; his support for large-scale federal support of art and music programs to improve creativity (and thus competitiveness in the global economy) would resonate with millions of voters.
Even on faith and politics, Mike is easy to like. From afar he seemed extreme because he raised his hand in a debate when the candidates were asked en masse if they believed in evolution. But when Bill Maher pressed him to justify that view on his HBO show, Huckabee responded with a nuanced and presentable discussion of the origins of the universe that seemed to pacify even the atheist host. (I found this as well when we discussed the subject some months ago.) He has surely said some wacky right-wing things that could be used against him, but no more than any of the others in the Republican field.
For these reasons and more, we have become persuaded that Mike Huckabee can indeed win the general election for President of the United States. Again, quoting Jonathan Alter of Newsweek: "He may be the only Republican candidate with a decent chance to beat the Democrats next November."
But he cannot win the general election if he does not first win the Republican nomination. Up until now, there have been few who have believed this is possible. But this is starting to change. David Brooks recently wrote, "It's quickly clear that Huckabee is as good a campaigner as anybody running for president this year. And before too long it becomes easy to come up with reasons why he might have a realistic shot at winning the Republican nomination."
Gov. Huckabee cannot win the nomination without our votes and without our support. Now is the time to act. If you care about the three legs of the conservative stool--social conservatism, fiscal responsibility, and strong defense--and if you do not want four (or eight!) years of Hillary, then you should join us in supporting Mike Huckabee for President.
Great post..very well laid out. Thanks!
I am troubled by Huckabee's frequent resort to class warfare language and his willingness to demagogue on trade. These are not small problems.
I am sad that religious folks would endorse this man.
He is no conservative and has used the race card just like liberals do to shame people into amnesty programs for Tyson Chicken workers.
He left Arkansas a shambles (www.taxhikemike.org) and praises the goverment schools and programs such as NCLB.
Ron Paul is a much better choice and his bloggers are not paid!
If Thompson wasn't running, I think Huckabee would be doing better. As it stands, he has a chance of pulling an upset. People are impressed, but he has a lot of catching up to do.
Amen and Amen, Joe!!
Incidentally, I knew from the first line of NH's comment that it would end with a reference to Ron Paul.
Anyway, I do know that one conservative criticism of Huckabee is that he is a "nanny-stater", overly concerned about our individual health, and wanting to keep us from getting fat. I'm not sure how much weight to really give that (ha-ha), but it's probably something he'll have to address before too long.
Joe and friends tell us: "Only after prayerfully considering the issues, the candidates, and the electoral calculus have we decided to settle on this joint endorsement."
I'm so glad that you have prayerfully considered this. I would hate to think that you had merely used your own wisdom. Can you tell me what "prayerfully considering" something means? Does it mean you say a prayer, then make a decision? Does God somehow guide the process? Did he guide you to pick Thompson earlier? Does God want Huckabee to get the nomination? What about other Christians who have "prayerfully considered" the issues and candidates and concluded that God wants them to support Romney or Giuliani or, heaven forbid!, Clinton? Does God pick the candidates and winners? Or does God stand back from the whole process so as to not taint the results? Inquiring minds want to know!
Well structured post! I join you and other likeminded evangelicals to stand for the best choice.
NH:
Could you please tell me where my paychecks have been? I have been blogging for Huckabee for 2 months and they must of got lost in the mail. Please let me know how to get signed up for the paychecks because I could really use the extra money. Stop spreading the lies! It is not helping Ron Paul one bit.
Thank you guys for standing up for what you believe in and supporting Mike Huckabee. The more people come out with some of these lies about Huckabee the more it supports the idea that Mike has a great chance of benig the next President. Mark my words its going to come down to Rudy vs. Mike.
Paragraph 11: Even "thought" the CFG is slightly outside of the mainstream. I think you meant to say "Even though"
Thanks for supporting Mike,
As a social conservative he is the only one that has done the work to really show that he is.
He isn't into band-aid solutions on policy we have had for years. Which is a GREAT THING.
I have some bumper stickers and yard signs for those interested at
www.MikeHuckabeeStuff.com
Paragraph 11: Even "thought" the CFG is slightly outside of the mainstream. I think you meant to say "Even though"
I've been following Mike Huckabee for quite some while now. I had originally been for Thompson, but I've been very unimpressed with his campaign. Can you say "slow?" But Mike Huckabee is energetic, full of charisma, and can tell his story like no other candidate out there right now. He has great new ideas and is refreshing. And he is a brother in Christ who makes me proud. He has my vote.If you want to get into the grass roots effort to promote him, visit Huck's Army.
http://forum.hucksarmy.com/index.php
Excellent post! I especially liked your comments on Huckabee's fiscal credentials and look forward to reading your detailed response to CFG in the future.
Go Huckabee!
Joe,
He should garner the favor of conservation conservatives too:
"There has been a perception that conservative Republicans do not care much for the environment or the protection and preservation of natural resources. I remind people that the very word "conservative" means that we are all about conserving things that are valuable and dear. Few things are more valuable to us than the natural resources that God created and gave to us to carefully manage. One of the proudest moments I have had as a governor is the passage of what became Amendment 75 to the Arkansas Constitution. It forever dedicates a small but vital revenue stream to the conservation of our state's valuable and irreplaceable resources."
and
"My own personal faith reminds me that "the earth is the Lord's" and that we are not its owners; merely its caretakers. From the very first pages of Genesis in the Old Testament we are reminded that God is the Creator and we are responsible for tending to that which he created; to preserve it and to protect it. We are indeed given the liberty and in fact the admonition to enjoy and utilize the resources, but use is not abuse and we have no right to pillage the planet unmercifully. We should see to it that our care for the environment enhances not only its aesthetic value but preserves the resources themselves for future generations."
The guy appeals to me too; happy to pick up and run with your endorsement.
Best,
Don
[source of quotes...]
I live in Arkansas, and he did NOT leave our state in shambles. We LOVE him and are proud of him. He left our state in better condition than he found it, and on a path to become even better!
Thanks so much for your well laid out article. David took care of Goliath, the Lions misssed a meal from Daniel, and we, as God's people, can expect to see another great victory. I believe that The Lord is using this man to not only be our next president but to bring together evangelical voters and show them God can make a difference when we trust Him. Go Mike Go!!!!
Great post, guys! Mike being virtually tied for second place in Iowa with Thompson and his recent spike in fundraising have definitely earned him a place as a "top-tier" candidate. Mike is the only authentic, articulate conservative in this race with the momentum needed to win!
GO MIKE!!!!
Go Huck Go! I will not say he is the *only* choice for Christian conservatives (Duncan Hunter's pretty cool too), but I do believe he is the *best* choice!
Come on, it's time to get on the Huckabee train everyone.
And by the way, NH-- it is ludicrous to insinuate that Huckabee bloggers are paid. Please cite your reference.
Endorsing Huckabee shows integrity-why support Guilliani if he doesn't represent your views?
I would support Huckabee except for his views on defense and Iraq.
addressing Ex-Preacher...
In regard to your questions about "prayerfully considering" Mr. Huckabee I would like to have the opportunity not to argue you, but just to enlighten you as to how prayer actually works.
If you are indead an 'ex preacher' then you would certainly know that a man is judged by his fruit of course. What he produces in his life. I am quite the conservative myself and I don't necessarily take a liking to politics for any other reason than a little humor as to how God's creation is handled in such a irresponsible way. On the other hand, it is my duty as a child of God to pay attention, and actually base my decision on a leader that produces fruit. While there are many candidates on that stage, both Democrat and Republican that show 'moral values', one has to also quit looking at what values are more convienient to our individual lives and start examining if those values follow The Bible.
I have decided just recently to support Mike Huckabee for President of the United States. I have made this decision through prayer and seeking God's advice. I had a student ask me just last night, during a lesson, "how you are to know that The Bible is factual and answers from prayer are sincere?" My answer is simple, you do not wake up with pixy dust over your head and know the answer as spoken in a loud voice from the sky, and of course....no one else heard it but you.
It is simple application of scripture to YOUR life and then actually paying attention to the outcome by that faith. Anyone can pray for something, but who is looking and waiting for a Biblical answer rather than one that benefits them personally? Who is applying the words of Jesus Christ to their life and then watching to see if things work out the way the Bible says they will? If you read scripture and apply it, pray and wait for an outcome, you will quickly realize that Romans 8:24 is real. It is faith in a hope, that is patiently waited for because you have NOT seen it. You have to be willing to watch for your answers.
If you want to know how prayer works, first be willing to accept that your answer may not be what YOU want. Follow a candidate that represents what Jesus Christ stood for. In my eyes, in this race you will not need very much prayer, since it has become so evident who follows scripture and who follows convenience.
And to other Christians that have 'prayerfully considered' Hillary Clinton, well, Mike Huckabee might not be the one for them. I would ask them to carefully read through their Bible and ask themselves if Jesus Christ, based on his life and teachings, would endorse Hillary Clinton. Or Mitt Romney for that matter. Truth to be told, He might not endorse any of the candidates. This political game is far to out of contact with the teachings of the Bible anyways.
But, I will not stand by and pretend it is not obvious which candidate tries their best to follow what God commands. Mike Huckabee may not be perfect, but he is closer to biblical that most. And that is where I cast my vote as an 'evangelical' Christian.
With Sincere Love through Jesus Christ to you,
Mark Pierce
Logansport, LA
Hey ex-preacher? Your sarcastic remarks help explain why you're "an ex" preacher.. very cute
I must say that I was never so into a Presidential candidate as I am with our Huckster. After being introduced by New Man Magazine, I not only contributed for the first time in my life to any politician, I started a blog and working my darnest to spread the word as much as I can about our humble servant.
Well done article my brothers!
God Bless you, and hopefully we can convince others to stop supporting who they think will be elected, and start supporting publicly the one and only candidate that shares our core values and HAS NOT flip flopped on any issues - because he's the only one with true integrity.
we love you Mike !!
http://njchristiansforhuckabee.wordpress.com
Thanks for joining the team. When I was a delegate at the Values Voter Debate in Florida and voted for him, it was stunning to find that the majority of us did....and that was after a 40 day fast.
So I'm happy to see such men of quality, like you all, joining the Huckabee team.
If you want to see a great video promoting Huck, go to my site and you'll see the video set to the Rocky theme music. He HAS reached Tier One status, and the money is rolling in.
So..let's do it for HUCK!
I like Huckabee -- a lot. And at present there's no candidate I'd rather support.
That said, I think there are genuine concerns about his foreign policy knowledge. I'm willing to buy his argument that governors do more than you'd expect with foreign countries. I understand that he's seen the world. And I understand that you don't have to know everything, and that advisors serve a purpose. I would further argue that (excepting only McCain) the current Republican field is hugely lacking in terms of understanding the nuances of foreign policy.
All of this said, I get the sense that, no matter his debating skills, Huckabee would suffer in a foreign policy debate with either Clinton or Obama.
I’d really like to see evidence of him buffing up his knowledge of international relations and global tensions. And I’d like to know concretely what he plans to do in such areas. Right now, when his foreign policy exposure comes up, he generally explains why perceptions of him are wrong without giving any substantive evidence to the contrary. His website’s foreign policy section is limited to Iraq and Israel.
What is Huckabee’s approach to Iran? How would he continue to dissipate the situation with North Korea? What does he feel the US role should be in the Darfur crisis? Relief for AIDS in Africa? How will he improve (and will he improve) relations with the EU? How about China?
These are important questions. I would be hugely comforted if he would at least begin to approach them. Foreign policy is not limited to the War on Terror.
But you’ve presented a well-written and thought-out endorsement, and I appreciate it.
Great article! But in your sentence below, didn't you mean Huckabee did NOT raise his hand that he believed in evolution? (Or perhaps it was that he raised his hand that he believed in creationism)
"From afar he seemed extreme because he raised his hand in a debate when the candidates were asked en masse if they believed in evolution."
Good choice, I agree wholeheartedly.
Seems to me that while all of the other canidates are quoting Reagan every chance they get, Huckabee is making Reagan quality quotes of his own.
Gentlemen ... this was a well thought out and well delivered endorsement. I'm happy to have you on our team.
Skip Lively,
Check out Huckabee's speech to the Center for Stretegic and International Studies here: http://www.csis.org/component/option,com_csis_events/task,view/id,1388
He doesn't address all the issues you raised, but he does show you very effectively the foreign policy approach he would take.
Below are some comments from the transcript:
DR. FLANAGAN: Governor Huckabee, thank you very much for what I think was, as I said, a very nuanced and comprehensive of the terrorism issue. I think you’ve set a very high standard among the candidates this year in analysis of this problem and we wish you the best of luck in the future.
(M)y name is Sarah Petrin and I work with the Better World Campaign, which supports the work of the United Nations. And I wanted to thank you for all of your brilliant analogies in your speech, particularly your opening one about the smartest kid on the block.
I’m Laura Wilson with the Center for U.S. Global Engagement. And I was very encouraged to hear how much you want to talk about engagement.
Gentlemen ... this was a well thought out and well delivered endorsement. I'm happy to have you on our team.
Skip Lively,
Check out Huckabee's speech to the Center for Stretegic and International Studies here: http://www.csis.org/component/option,com_csis_events/task,view/id,1388
He doesn't address all the issues you raised, but he does show you very effectively the foreign policy approach he would take.
Below are some comments from the transcript:
DR. FLANAGAN: Governor Huckabee, thank you very much for what I think was, as I said, a very nuanced and comprehensive of the terrorism issue. I think you’ve set a very high standard among the candidates this year in analysis of this problem and we wish you the best of luck in the future.
(M)y name is Sarah Petrin and I work with the Better World Campaign, which supports the work of the United Nations. And I wanted to thank you for all of your brilliant analogies in your speech, particularly your opening one about the smartest kid on the block.
I’m Laura Wilson with the Center for U.S. Global Engagement. And I was very encouraged to hear how much you want to talk about engagement.
I believe that when Joe says he prayerfully considered supporting Mike Huckabee, he means just that. He asked a perfectly wise God to give wisdom to an imperfect person. I don't think Joe has claimed he hears back from God perfectly, just that he goes to a perfect God for guidance. I think Joe fully realizes that there is static in our lives that keeps us from hearing the voice of God perfectly... our humanity, our imperfection, our own wants, desires, prejudices, and our flesh.
(As an aside, Ex-preacher...assuming you really are, then you know perfectly well why Joe won't trust in his own wisdom. "The heart is deceitful above all else". The Israelites fell upon their hardest times when "everyone did what was right in their own eyes". I take it you don't buy that stuff, but why act surprised that Joe does?)
Trusting in your own wisdom will only get you so far, and you'll only ever be right by sheer coincidence using that method. True, some who lean on the wisdom of God will not hear His voice that well, although some will. I don't think Joe is claiming to have direct revelation from God on whom to endorse (obviously not since he's not endorsing Ron Paul). However, I trust Joe's process far more than I'd trust him if it were "by his own wisdom".
Gideon,
I've seen links to that speech and have been meaning to check it out. Thank you for the reminder.
Like I said, I want to be impressed by Huckabee. If he can hold his own (and more) in the foriegn policy arena, I'll be thrilled.
Thanks for laying out Gov Hukabee's credentials and thereby guaranteeing that I will not vote for him.
Way to go!! Let's go Huckabee!!! Find out more about him here... http://www.mikehuckabee.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=VerticalDay.Home&l=50F49E7D03868E58F54AA1ED674B0C61
OK --- I have just done something that I never before would have done --- I clipped off an email with the copy of your article to some of my friends. eek! I really don't like to discuss politics with my friends - but this is how much I like Mike and how much I know Mike needs our support if we are to make this dream a reality! Go Mike Go!!!! Join me friends and share Mike with your friends - they need to hear about this man!
For those bandying the Club for Growth criticisms for Huckabee, there is more to the story.
The Club for Growth I believe has unfairly painted a poor picture of Huckabee's record. For instance, they use his refusal to sign the "no tax" pledge as an indicator that he might raise taxes. However, Huckabee did eventually sign ATR's no tax pledge. Rudy Giuliani, John McCain, and Fred Thompson have not signed the "no tax" pledge (essentially snubbing Americans for Tax Reform), but CfG makes no mention of this fact in their white papers of the other candidates.
I've never supported a candidate before and I've never had a political candidate's name stuck to my car bumper before during my nearly 40 years journey on this earth. Based on what Mike Huckabee believes and sticks his neck out for, and the spirit of kindness in which he does it, I can't "stand idly by" either.
I hear echoes of an old Jew named Mordecai letting me know that I am not an American of voting age with some spare funds by accident. I am here "for such a time as this." And even if Mike doesn't get elected, I will watch America continue its downward spiral, but I will know that I was part of something truly great. As God enables me, I hope to be able to contribute more.
It is simple application of scripture to YOUR life and then actually paying attention to the outcome by that faith. Anyone can pray for something, but who is looking and waiting for a Biblical answer rather than one that benefits them personally?
One needn't look to the Bible for answers to questions that involve more than one's personal interests. A person can reason through political questions without a need to appeal for divine guidance. And I'm not sure how valuable that guidance is, anyway. I've noticed that people can use the Bible to justify just about any political or social goal, from slavery to gay marriage. Like a Rorschach inkblot test, teh seeker reads his own opinions into the text, and gets out of it a confirmation of what he wanted to justify at the outset.
I would ask them to carefully read through their Bible and ask themselves if Jesus Christ, based on his life and teachings, would endorse Hillary Clinton. Or Mitt Romney for that matter. Truth to be told, He might not endorse any of the candidates. This political game is far to out of contact with the teachings of the Bible anyways.
Exactly. Jesus was trying to focus his followers on the world to come, not the political situation of their time. He anticipated (wrongly) that God's Kingdom was imminent, so then, as now, his answer would be that if you are worrying about who to choose for president, then you were not focused on God and were in danger of losing your soul.
What about Huckabee's position on immigration?
Interesting info about Huckabee from The American Spectator. He's managed to weasel around his extremely questionable fiscal record (btw, did you know those "100 tax cuts" mostly consisted of minor rewrites of the tax code, insignificant exemptions, etc?), but we'll see if he can wiggle out of his scandal-ridden past as documented here:
http://www.spectator.org/dsp_article.asp?art_id=12205
Bravo, my friends. A wonderful endorsement.
Pieter, anyone who lives in Arkansas will tell you that those stories are nothing but the result of a bitter grudge against Huckabee held by Arkansas Times editor Max Brantley. He even took the time (or had his staff take the time) to transcribe his old newspaper articles into Word documents so he could slam Huckabee again. In fact, every story (with one exception) is based on just two people — a disgruntled former state employee and Max. When the Ethics Commission actually looked at the complaints listed in that article, they dismissed them. It's a non-story.
Michael Bates,
Maybe the best place to go is to Huckabee's site itself. Here's the link to his immigration policy:
http://www.mikehuckabee.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=Issues.View&Issue_id=4
Well-written and thoughtful article! Thanks guys!
The Arkansas Times holds a grudge so...they made up every bad thing you hear about Huckabee? Yeah, I've heard that one before. It fits into the Huckabee gameplan - deny every single accusation and dismiss it as a case of "they're just out to get me."
It's funny how item after item just keeps adding up against Huckabee, and yet the argument everyone keeps using is that NONE of it is what it seems.
Mommahawk, how come Huckabee doesn't mention on his campaign site that denying illegal immigrants public assistance and voting "rights" is racist or talk about how we should pay to put illegal immigrant children through school?
Personally, I'm more interested in his record than in the propaganda on his campaign site. His record screams that he's not only soft towards illegal immigration, but that he thinks we're practically little Hitlers unless we feed, clothe, and educate illegal immigrants so that they don't have to do it themselves.
Pieter, you are correct in that Huckabee is a Bush redux on the immigration issue. He supported the Bush immigration plan pre-2006 elections. He only backpedaled on the recent plan when he saw which way the wind was blowing. He supports a multicultural and multilingual society. That's enough for him not to get my vote.
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Mike Huckabee is the best candidate for president and either a Huckabee/Crist or Huckabee/Mcain should be the winning republican ticket. I just hope my nieghbor is not right. He thinks "Hilary as president may be what our country needs to bring us to our needs." Now don't get me wrong he is red state through and through but he looks at the way the people in this country our treating one another and the lack of God in the homes and hearts of these peole are very sad. I pray every day that God will open the hearts, eyes, and minds to the reality that Mike Huckabee can win and we just need to get behind him and do everything we can to let others know.
I like Mike! Huckabee for President
www.mikehuchabee.com
Thanks for coming out in support of Mike Huckabee. Your article is very well laid out and I look forward to reading your point-by-point response to the Club for Growth.
As far as Huckabee's stance on immigration, please take a moment and read the article below. It may help explain how and why he believes on the issue.
http://myviewmytake.wordpress.com/2007/10/21/more-on-huckabee-and-immigration-its-about-the-children/
Mike Huckabee is an adroit public speaker. He communicates his message in life-like, cogent terms, with compelling examples like the story he told (at the Ames Straw Poll) of what his then-11-yo daughter entered into the "Comments" section of a Visitors Book after visiting the Yad Vashem holocaust museum: “Why didn't somebody do something?” Very effective.
Huckabee is all about calling his listeners to "do something," to awaken them to their own empowerment, and summon them to action in order that "Main Street," and not "Wall Street," will prevail in guarding the values and beliefs upon which the Republic was founded.
Huckabee puts his listeners at ease, and reassures them, articulating clear concepts in a natural, easy style (no doubt something well-cultivated as a pastor). He’s not angry or demanding, like a Ron Paul, nor is he as “rigidly-scripted” as Romney, and his large brown eyes peer through a humble demeanor, drawing a striking contrast to a somewhat mechanical-squinty Brownback. One can easily imagine sitting comfortably with this man over a cup of coffee at the Main Street Cafe.
Most importantly, perhaps, Huckabee convinces many that he is ONE with the FairTax grassroots movement. While many - like Romney, and others, who are invested in the current income tax system - seek to demagog the well-researched FairTax plan, its acceptance in the professional / academic community continues to grow. Renown economist Laurence Kotlikoff believes that failure to enact the FairTax - choosing instead to try to "flatten" what he deems to be a non-flattenable income tax system - will eventuate into an irrevocable economic meltdown because of the hidden aspects of the current system that make political accountability impossible.
Romney's recent WEAK response to FairTax questioning on “This Week with Geo. Stephanopoulos” drew a sharper contrast between Huckabee and all other presidential front-runners who will not embrace it. Huckabee understands that what's wrong with the income tax can't be fixed with "a tap of the hammer, nor a twist of the screwdriver." That his opponents cling to the destructive Tax Code, the IRS, preserving political power of granting tax favors at continued cost to - and misery of - American families, invigorates his campaign's raison d'etre.
Of the FairTax, Huckabee asserts that it's...
• SIMPLE, easy to understand
• EFFICIENT, inexpensive to comply with and doesn't cause less-than-optimal business decisions for tax minimization purposes
• FAIR, FLAT, and FAMILY FRIENDLY, loophole-free, and everyone pays their share
• LOW TAX RATE is achieved by broad base with no exclusions
• PREDICTABLE, doesn't change, so financial planning is possible
• UNINTRUSIVE, doesn't intrude into our personal affairs or limit our liberty
• VISIBLE, not hidden from the public in tax-inflated prices or otherwise
• PRODUCTIVE, rewards - rather than penalizes - work and productivity
A detailed benefits analysis of the plan (from The FairTax Book) explains Huckabee's ardent advocacy:
For individuals:
• No more tax on income - make as much as you wish
• You receive your full paycheck - no more deductions
• You pay the tax when you buy "at retail" - not "used"
• No more double taxation (e.g. like on current Capital Gains)
• Reduction of "pre-FairTaxed" retail prices by 20%-30%
• Adding back 29.9% FairTax maintains current price levels
• FairTax would constitute 23% portion of new prices
• Every household receives a monthly check, or "pre-bate"
• "Prebate" is "advance tax payback" for monthly consumption to poverty level
• FairTax's "prebate" ensures progressivity, poverty protection
• Finally, citizens are knowledgeable of what their tax IS
• Elimination of "parasitic" Income Tax industry
• NO MORE IRS. NO MORE FILING OF TAX RETURNS by individuals
• Those possessing illicit forms of income will ALSO pay the FairTax
• Households have more disposable income to purchase goods
• Savings is bolstered with reduction of interest rates
For businesses:
• Corporate income and payroll taxes revoked under FairTax
• Business compensated for collecting tax at "cash register"
• No more tax-related lawyers, lobbyists on company payrolls
• No more embedded (hidden) income/payroll taxes in prices
• Reduced costs. Competition - not tax policy - drives prices
• Off-shore "tax haven" headquarters can now return to U.S
• No more "favors" from politicians at expense of taxpayers
• Resources go to R&D and study of competition - not taxes
• Marketplace distortions eliminated for fair competition
• US exports increase their share of foreign markets
For the country:
• 7% - 13% economic growth projected in the first year of the FairTax
• Jobs return to the U.S.
• Foreign corporations "set up shop" in the U.S.
• Tax system trends are corrected to "enlarge the pie"
• Larger economic "pie," means thinner tax rate "slices"
• Initial 23% portion of price is pressured downward as "pie" increases
• No more "closed door" tax deals by politicians and business
• FairTax sets new global standard. Other countries will follow
Passionately supporting FairTax, Huckabee understands that, if elected President, Congress will have to present the bill for his signature. His call to action goes beyond his candidacy: Main Street will have to demand that their legislators deliver the bill.
(Permission is granted to reproduce, in whole or part, provided snipurl.com links are preserved to measure message efficacy. - Ian)
A pro-war candidate WILL NOT beat the Democratic nominee. With 70% of the people sick of our actions overseas, it it simple political suicide.
Even though the Democratic candidates are really pro war themselves, they know how to pretend to be anti-war, so they will be voted into the White House if the Republican nominee is pro-war.
The only hope for the Republicans really is Ron Paul. His grassroots support is unsurpassed and his fund raising is considerable. I really don't understand how you can say Huckabee has a chance when he didn't even earn 1 million last quarter. He'll be out of the race after the first or second primary.
Phyllis Schlafly doesn't like Huckabee, either, according to this article: http://opinionjournal.com/diary/?id=110010782
I suppose she has a personal vendetta against him, too? It's all made up? In the words of the Arkansas Eagle Forum director, Huckabee was "pro-life and pro-gun, but otherwise a liberal."
Schlafly says: "He destroyed the conservative movement in Arkansas, and left the Republican Party a shambles."
Picking up on the above comment:
"Nor am I alone. Betsy Hagan, Arkansas director of the conservative Eagle Forum and a key backer of his early runs for office, was once "his No. 1 fan." She was bitterly disappointed with his record. "He was pro-life and pro-gun, but otherwise a liberal," she says. "Just like Bill Clinton he will charm you, but don't be surprised if he takes a completely different turn in office."
"Phyllis Schlafly, president of the national Eagle Forum, is even more blunt. "He destroyed the conservative movement in Arkansas, and left the Republican Party a shambles," she says. "Yet some of the same evangelicals who sold us on George W. Bush as a 'compassionate conservative' are now trying to sell us on Mike Huckabee."
I do not have a horse in this race yet and will likely support whoever is the Repub nominee. However I thought the above was worth considering.
Joe,
I'm glad to see you changed your mind about Fred Thompson.
Remember, third times a charm. I realize you can't see clearly when it comes to Mitt Romney (Who's conservative record is much better than Huckabee's) because of his Mormon faith.
But hopefully before the primary comes around and we hand the Republican nomination to Giuliani, you'll see that Huckabee just doesn't have what it takes.
Remember, it's alright to be wrong. Third times a charm!
Pieter I suppose she has a personal vendetta against him, too?
I respect Schlafly but she's gone over to the nutty conspiratorial "The GOP is pushing a North American Union on us" side of the paleo-con movement. Say what you will about Huckabee, Schlafly's views are even more unacceptable to Republicans.
Christians have one candidate... Ron Paul.
Being that Huckabee is an ex-preacher, have you guys actually studied any of his past sermons?
I would suggest you look closely at them and see if they are plagiarized (as is common these days, www.sermoncentral.com, www.desperatepreacher.com, etc...).
Check out John Fund at Opinion Journal today. I have serious misgivings about Huckabee, and this article confirmed all of them. Just because he's pro-life doesn't mean he deserves my vote or deserves to be president.
I respect John Fund but he is part of the DC-centric elite that does not want a true social conservative in office.
Lucas Roebuck demolishes Fund's article here:
http://roebuckreport.blogspot.com/2007/10/funds-column-assassination-of-huckabee.html
You say you believe most Americans aren't minarchists. I tend to agree with you, but that just shows the change in our political character from the days when colonists read and agreed with Tom Paine's words "that government is best which governs least."
I read the wikipedia link you provided to "minarchist," and found much there to agree with.
I'm still amazed at the steadfast refusal of so many evangelical Christians to even consider the campaign of Ron Paul. So Huckabee is anti-abortion? So is Paul--consistently. Huckabee is for border security? So is Paul--consistently. The problem for the remnants of the Moral Majority coalition is that Paul doesn't favor using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior. I should think such refusal to stoop to pharasaical methods would be appealing to those who acknowledge change has to be wrought from within.
The Founders said government exists to defend life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness (often interpreted in a material sense). If a candidate espouses a pro-Life, minarchist approach to governance, then, why is he vilified as being so out of the mainstream -- unless America has decided to abandon those principles?
Jemison Thorsby "The problem for the remnants of the Moral Majority coalition is that Paul doesn't favor using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior."
What about Romans 13:4 and 1 Peter 2:13-14?
"For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer."
"Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, 14or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right."
Ben,
Following your reasoning, George Bush is doing god's will by punishing the islamo-fascist evil-doers with his invasion of a Iraq and the "war on terror", right? Nevermind the hundred of thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians who have lost their lives and the 3 million who have been displaced from their homes...it's god's will.
Ron Paul follows the general idea of Romans 12, which says that as far as possible live at peace with all men. And do not repay evil for evil-do not be overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. If your enemy hungers-feed him and if he is thirsty-give him a drink. Does this only apply to non-arab enemies or everybody?
JohnW,
Your comment does not address what I actually said.
I quoted Romans which says the government is "an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer".
You seem to read into this a defence of killing "hundred of thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians".
War is sometimes necessary. Every possible effort should be made to not harm innocent civilians.
If you are using Romans 13 in support of the Invasion and occupation or Iraq and the "global war on terror", I did address what you said. I certainly do recognize some people believe the the war on Iraq is necessary and God's will regardless of the consequences to innocent civilians. I do not agree with them.
Question if the President of the United States is ""an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer", does this mean we are never to question him when he decides to go to war? And forget President Bush, I'm asking about Presidents in general.
Joe,
I can appreciate that about Fund, but Pat Toomey at NRO also makes some great points about Huckabee's big government tendencies. And there are other outside the Beltway folks who would agree, like me! Just because he's right on life and family issues doesn't mean everything else doesn't count. He's got a couple months to make his case to conservatives like me, but I don't think he can pull it off. And I agree with Toomey, he's really looking for the VP spot anyway. For those who love politics this is all a great time.
Yes, and now the Christian Broadcasting Network news anchor is laying down the hatchet on Huckabee as well...
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/257943.aspx
"Mike Huckabee will not win the Republican nomination for president. He has enjoyed some success on the campaign trail, largely because he's done a good job portraying himself as the candidate conservative Christians can trust.
and...
"I have no doubt Mr. Huckabee loves God and is trusting Him for salvation. And I agree with those who say we elect the commander-in-chief, not the theologian-in-chief. But maybe those who are surveying the Republican field and siding with Huckabee because they perceive him to be the only evangelical in the field should look a little closer at his record and words."
Mike Pat Toomey at NRO also makes some great points about Huckabee's big government tendencies.
I think it comes down to what is meant by "big government tendencies." For Toomey that definition includes using tax dollars to pay for highways and education. For most of us, that isn't the same definition we would use.
I'd encourage anyone who thinks Hucakbee is a big government type to check out this interview with Glen Beck:
ttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uvsf8uCcYxI
Kudos for your endorsement. I noticed that in the comment section todays Wall Street Journal Slam piece is mentioned. That article is indeed worth pondering. Especially the part aboout the Southern Baptist Convention and the fight between so called "moderates" and "conservatives" Well while such issues are interesting I really don't care. Huckabee's views on whom should be teaching at Baylor and other things are not important. However I do question why the WSJ felt it had to put that quote in about what is largely a theological issue. A complicated one at that that whole books have been written on. TO the causal reader one would think that Huckabee was endorsing liberal political clergy.
According to taxfoundation . org:
When Bill Clinton left the governor's office in 1992, the overall state tax burden in Arkansas was at 9.8%, ranking Arkansas 39th in the nation.
When Mike Huckabee left office in 2006, the state tax burden was 11.1%, making Arkansas #13 for high taxes.
We may still be 49th in per capita income (thank god for Mississippi), but at least Huckabee moved us up on one scale!
JohnW,
You still seem to be reading into my comments things that I did not say. I did not try and use Romans 13 to justify the Iraq war. It might be possible to argue that, but that was not the point I was making.
My point is simply that the Bible teaches that government has a role in restraining moral evil. I did not set out what I think that would look like in dealing with terrorism.
I said war was sometimes necessary - that is not giving an opinion about the legitimacy of any particular war.
Ben Stevenson,
I agree some wars are necessary and government certainly does have a role in restraining evil.
Hey Joe,
Thanks for for the heads up on the Beck Youtube interview. I watched all five or six segments, and much of what he says is excellent. I still think he has populist instincts that I don't like, and even though he talks lower taxes and spending, I'm not sure his rhetoric and track record are consistent with that. I'm afraid he would be more in the mold of GWB, than Reagan (the government that governs least governs best), but his instincts on the threats to our freedom are good. I think he's somewhat of a protectionist, and his ideas about "energy independence" are just silly. Ten years? It's the free market, not government pushing biofules on us that will take care of this problem.
Anyway, I haven't made up my mind yet and I'll be giving the Huckster an open-minded look. I have a feeling it's going to be next February 5th in the Illinois primary when I finally do make up my mind.
Joe,
I am voting for Huckabee and have donated already. I like the candidate I hope I like the president.
Are there two Joe Carters that blog on conservative sites, or did this Joe Carter once work as a blogger for Fred Thompson?
I agree some wars are necessary and government certainly does have a role in restraining evil.
Doesn't that put JohnW AND government at odds with Ron Paul?
Michelle,
See http://www.evangelicaloutpost.com/archives/004041.html
JD,
No I don't think my comments put me at odds with Ron Paul at all.
In response to Jemison Thorsby statement "The problem for the remnants of the Moral Majority coalition is that Paul doesn't favor using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior.", Ben Stevenson asks "What about Romans 13:4 and 1 Peter 2:13-14?"
I was unclear why Ben mentioned these two scriptures-evidently he thinks Ron Paul does not believe government has a role in restraining moral evil. Don't know where he gets this idea. We are not a theocracy-I would not want any president forcing compliance with the bible or a particular religious faith as this goes against our constitution and democratic way of life in America.
Some wars are necessary, the invasion and occupation of Iraq was not. We were not in any sort of imminent danger from Iraq.
JohnW
What do you understand to be the difference between the government having a role in restraining moral evil (which I think you accept), and "using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior" (which I think you reject).
Romans 13:4 says of the government that "He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer."
Ultimately what is evil is what is against God. We can know what is evil from our conscience (Romans 2:14-15), and from the Bible. Behaviour that is unbiblical is therefore evil. This includes things like murder, greed, adultery, covetousness. The government has a role in restraining these things. However, the government can only bring about external compliance - it cannot change the heart. Evil people may not act on their evil desires because of fear of consequences.
There are two ways to restrain evil. Firstly produce external compliance through fear of consequences. Secondly produce internal compliance through a changed heart brought about by God using the preaching of the gospel.
"One witness is not enough to convict a man accused of any crime or offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." -- Deuteronomy 19:15
There are some things that are wrong, and yet governments can do nothing about because they are matters of the heart, and how can they be proved with sufficient evidence by a human court to convict someone?
Basically I was not making a specific point about the policies of Ron Paul. My point was that I don't see a difference between "using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior" and government's restraining evil - one just seems to be phrased more negatively - but aren't they really the same thing?
My refernce to Romans 13:4 cam in responce to a comment by Jemison Thorsby (which I may have misunderstood?).
As an american citizen and a Christian I do reject "using government to force external compliance with biblical behavior" Afterall, who would be interpreting the bible to determine what is biblical behavior? Hindu and Muslim americans should not be expected to adhere to biblical christian standards of behavior. I take the viewpoint of the early american baptists that government should stay out of the church and church should stay out of the government.
The government restrains evil in the sense that it generally restrains stealing, killing, and other out of control behavior. It is not necessary to refer to the bible to regulate these behaviors.
Ah, Huckabee...Saturday, October 27, 2007's Lawyers, Guns and Money sums it up...
Really, what. a. wingnut.
The government restrains evil in the sense that it generally restrains stealing, killing, and other out of control behavior. It is not necessary to refer to the bible to regulate these behaviors.
Would President Paul have intervened militarily to stop the holocaust?
Joe,
Huckabee may or may not be the next great President of the United States. However, what does it say about Huckabee that every response you've made so far regarding Toomey:
"For Toomey that definition includes using tax dollars to pay for highways and education. For most of us, that isn't the same definition we would use."
John Fund:
"I respect John Fund but he is part of the DC-centric elite that does not want a true social conservative in office."
And Schlafly
"I respect Schlafly but she's gone over to the nutty conspiratorial "The GOP is pushing a North American Union on us" side of the paleo-con movement. Say what you will about Huckabee, Schlafly's views are even more unacceptable to Republicans."
Are all ad hominem attacks. What does that say about you and your candidate?
I particularly like the way you begin each of your non-defense defenses of Huckabee by saying something like, "I respect so-in-so but" and then proceed to attack the person making the criticism of Huckabee rather than whatever it is they've said about him.
Joe Carter, get out of politics and go back to religious philosophy. This sort of stuff doesn't become you.
Being a Pragmatic Idealists certainly is a miracle because it is an impossibility to be one.
The two terms are mutually exclusive.
It seems that you men are Clinton shills using the evangelical banner while seeking to insure her election to the White House with an endorsement of a big government statist like Huckabee who won't be excepted by conservatives but may draw votes away from one as a third party candidate.
Being a Pragmatic Idealists certainly is a miracle because it is an impossibility to be one.
The two terms are mutually exclusive.
It seems that you men are Clinton shills using the evangelical banner while seeking to insure her election to the White House with an endorsement of a big government statist like Huckabee who won't be excepted by conservatives but may draw votes away from one as a third party candidate.
JD,
Re Post 83, you would have to ask Ron Paul.
However, generally speaking people on the right an left now generally agree WW II was necessary.
One thing I am sure Ron Paul would point out is there was an official declaration of war before we became involved in WWII. This means the congress fulfilled it's constitutional role by deliberating on the merits of going to war. Voting for authorization to use force in Iraq was not the same as all the congress did was vote to let President Bush decide if and when to invade Iraq. Ron Paul believes in 3 co-equal branches of government with checks and balances and not some kind of imperial king like presidency (or so-called "unitary executive"). Ron Paul's views are closer to those of the founding fathers. What we have not is too much power in the hands of a virtually unchecked executive branch.
I don't understand why everyone at the FRC and Focus on the Family hates Hillary Clinton. She is a practising Methodist and I heard she attend the congressional bible study in DC. She certain won't be cutting defense spending, so what's the problem?
Joe, et al:
Excellent summation on Governor Mike's aptitude, ability, and integrity.
I Like Mike!
Clint
"cast a sacred vote"
Oh dear! :-)
Did you intend us to laugh, or cry?
Your concept of the sacred is sorely lacking. Either that, or your beliefs about nation states, and this one in particular is blasphemous at best and more likely idolatry. You think God gives a d**n about the USA? Read your Bible.
Kristofer
K Long Your concept of the sacred is sorely lacking.
Sacred -- secured against violation, infringement, etc., as by reverence or sense of right: sacred oaths; sacred rights.
You think God gives a d**n about the USA? Read your Bible.
Matthew 10:29 -- "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father."
So God is sovereign over sparrows but not over nations?
If God is sovereign over nations, why does he need your vote? Can't he achieve his will without your help?
Ex-preacher,
Of course God can do whatever he wants with out our help. However, God often chooses to use people. Here are three examples of God using people.
To preach the gospel:
"And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" -- Romans 10:14
To bring judgement:
"O LORD, you have appointed them to execute judgment; O Rock, you have ordained them to punish." -- Habakkuk 1:12
To return people from exile:
"...the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and to put it in writing..." -- Ezra 1:1
Believing God is sovereign over all things does not take away our responsibility to act.
JohnW: "The government restrains evil in the sense that it generally restrains stealing, killing, and other out of control behavior. It is not necessary to refer to the bible to regulate these behaviors."
Should what the government legislates about include things related to marriage, e.g. adultery? Or what about homosexuality? Haven't both adultery and homosexuality been illegal in the past?
JohnW: "I don't understand why everyone at the FRC and Focus on the Family hates Hillary Clinton."
I am not sure "hatred" is the right word. People might not want her to be president because of her pro-choice views
http://www.naral.org/elections/statements/clinton.html
Ex-Preacher,
Don't you know-God needs a K Street lobbying firm to advance it's interests.
Ben, actually, I don't think it's government's duty to regulate what goes on between two consenting adults. I don't want to misinterpret what you are suggesting, but are you thinking that at some point our country was ruled by christian principles, but now God has pushed aside by secular progressive humanists?
Well, if you're gonna start proof-texting, I'm sure we can find plenty of verses on both sides of the sovereignty vs. free will question. This is why there are Calvinists and Arminians. It's just another example of the Bible contradicting itself. This is the main reason there are 33,800 denominations.
Let's say for the moment that you want to support the candidate that God wants you to support. How do you know which one that is? Until very recently, Joe thought God wanted him to support Fred Thompson. Now it's Huckabee. I won't be shocked if it changes to someone else within the next six months. I know Christians who sincerely believe that God wants them to support Ron Paul, Rudy Giuliani, John McCain, Tom Tancredo (oops, he dropped out), Barack Obama or even, gasp, Hillary.
Hey, if God always gets the election results he wants (which he should as he's sovereign and all), then he must have wanted Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996. Come to think of it, God may be leaning Democratic nowadays, what with the 2006 congressional elections. Or maybe that was just a wake-up call. Who knows? Actually, all the religious/political mullahs know the real answer - the problem is that they all disagree with each other.
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