Socialism is basically defined as a political and economic system in which the government owns the means of production and distribution of goods among the citizens. Socialism advocates government not only owning the industry of the state, but also being responsible for distributing the profits equally among its citizens.
According to our Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed..." In other words, our Founding Fathers viewed a limited government that allowed the citizens to work and enjoy the profit from their labor. They did not view government as the owner and distributor of our nation's industry and wealth.
My question now is this, what form of government is currently being advocated?
Cross-posted at www.backtotheconstitution.org
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Foxx Votes "No" On Energy Tax
The following is from a July 26 press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx. I am thankful for her vote on this. I appreciate her work for us in NC!
Foxx votes against national energy tax
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today voted against H.R. 2454, a bill that would essentially create a national energy tax through a “cap and trade” scheme. Some estimates found that the total tax impact of this legislation will amount to $2,979 per year for a family of four.
“As we struggle to make our way out of a recession, I could not vote for the creation of a new national energy tax,” Foxx said. “North Carolina families and businesses can’t afford the financial strain of high energy costs in this bill. We should be working to ensure taxpayers are less burdened by taxes and red tape—not more.”
Under H.R. 2454, electricity costs are estimated to rise by 90 percent. According to the Heritage Foundation, employment will be lower by 1,105,000 jobs per year as a result of this national energy tax. The bill will have an especially negative effect on energy-intensive sectors like manufacturing—which employs one out of six people in North Carolina’s 5th Congressional District. H.R. 2454 will also reduce the United States’ economic output by $9.6 trillion.
“Tens of thousands of people in North Carolina who work in manufacturing are at risk of losing their jobs due to the burdens placed on employers by this bill,” Foxx said. “Many employers will be forced out of business or out of the country because of high energy prices and the new regulations in this legislation.”
The legislation will be particularly damaging to rural areas and farming communities. Because rural households spend 58 percent more on fuel than urban residents as a percentage of their income, high energy prices cause disproportionate harm to rural families. The Heritage Foundation also estimates that farm income will drop by $50 billion by 2035 if H.R. 2454 becomes law.
Foxx votes against national energy tax
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today voted against H.R. 2454, a bill that would essentially create a national energy tax through a “cap and trade” scheme. Some estimates found that the total tax impact of this legislation will amount to $2,979 per year for a family of four.
“As we struggle to make our way out of a recession, I could not vote for the creation of a new national energy tax,” Foxx said. “North Carolina families and businesses can’t afford the financial strain of high energy costs in this bill. We should be working to ensure taxpayers are less burdened by taxes and red tape—not more.”
Under H.R. 2454, electricity costs are estimated to rise by 90 percent. According to the Heritage Foundation, employment will be lower by 1,105,000 jobs per year as a result of this national energy tax. The bill will have an especially negative effect on energy-intensive sectors like manufacturing—which employs one out of six people in North Carolina’s 5th Congressional District. H.R. 2454 will also reduce the United States’ economic output by $9.6 trillion.
“Tens of thousands of people in North Carolina who work in manufacturing are at risk of losing their jobs due to the burdens placed on employers by this bill,” Foxx said. “Many employers will be forced out of business or out of the country because of high energy prices and the new regulations in this legislation.”
The legislation will be particularly damaging to rural areas and farming communities. Because rural households spend 58 percent more on fuel than urban residents as a percentage of their income, high energy prices cause disproportionate harm to rural families. The Heritage Foundation also estimates that farm income will drop by $50 billion by 2035 if H.R. 2454 becomes law.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Foxx Cosponsors Energy Legislation
The following is from a June 11 press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.
Foxx cosponsors sweeping energy legislation
Bill invests in nuclear power, renewable energy and offshore energy sources
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today cosponsored The American Energy Act, an energy bill that promotes energy independence, job creation and environmental protections for new energy projects. The bill, in contrast to the energy policy currently being pursued by House Democrats, establishes a national goal of constructing 100 clean, modern nuclear energy plants over the next 20 years.
“Gas prices and utility bills are creeping up again, dealing another economic blow to North Carolina families,” Foxx said. “If we are going to emerge from this recession with a sustainable recovery, we must confront the coming crisis in energy. That’s why I’m pleased that we have a bill that paves the way for economic recovery through commonsense energy policies. Without a clean and abundant supply of energy, America cannot retain its place as the world’s economic powerhouse.”
The American Energy Act is an alternative to the “cap and trade” energy bill offered by Washington Democrats. Studies have shown that cap and trade policies (essentially a tax on energy) will dramatically increase the cost of energy for North Carolina families. Instead of taxing energy, the American Energy Act increases domestic energy supply by investing in renewable energy, tapping offshore sources of gas and oil, as well as increasing the availability and affordability of nuclear power.
“We haven’t built a new nuclear power plant in decades, despite the fact that nuclear power could provide a safe and clean source of energy for millions of households in America,” Foxx said. “Nuclear power already produces 73 percent of the zero emissions energy in America. The American Energy Act leverages the benefits of nuclear power by jumpstarting new investment in nuclear energy.”
About the American Energy Act: This comprehensive energy legislation directs revenue generated by the sale of energy production leases into a Renewable Energy Trust Fund that funds alternative and renewable energy sources. It also bolsters conservation and energy efficiency efforts through the use of proven tax incentives. Learn more about the American Energy Act by reading the backgrounder posted here.
Foxx cosponsors sweeping energy legislation
Bill invests in nuclear power, renewable energy and offshore energy sources
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today cosponsored The American Energy Act, an energy bill that promotes energy independence, job creation and environmental protections for new energy projects. The bill, in contrast to the energy policy currently being pursued by House Democrats, establishes a national goal of constructing 100 clean, modern nuclear energy plants over the next 20 years.
“Gas prices and utility bills are creeping up again, dealing another economic blow to North Carolina families,” Foxx said. “If we are going to emerge from this recession with a sustainable recovery, we must confront the coming crisis in energy. That’s why I’m pleased that we have a bill that paves the way for economic recovery through commonsense energy policies. Without a clean and abundant supply of energy, America cannot retain its place as the world’s economic powerhouse.”
The American Energy Act is an alternative to the “cap and trade” energy bill offered by Washington Democrats. Studies have shown that cap and trade policies (essentially a tax on energy) will dramatically increase the cost of energy for North Carolina families. Instead of taxing energy, the American Energy Act increases domestic energy supply by investing in renewable energy, tapping offshore sources of gas and oil, as well as increasing the availability and affordability of nuclear power.
“We haven’t built a new nuclear power plant in decades, despite the fact that nuclear power could provide a safe and clean source of energy for millions of households in America,” Foxx said. “Nuclear power already produces 73 percent of the zero emissions energy in America. The American Energy Act leverages the benefits of nuclear power by jumpstarting new investment in nuclear energy.”
About the American Energy Act: This comprehensive energy legislation directs revenue generated by the sale of energy production leases into a Renewable Energy Trust Fund that funds alternative and renewable energy sources. It also bolsters conservation and energy efficiency efforts through the use of proven tax incentives. Learn more about the American Energy Act by reading the backgrounder posted here.
Friday, June 5, 2009
We Need 2 R's
I was listening to a radio show yesterday on the way home and heard a comment that sparked this post. The radio host stated Christians today need to do several things, and two of those are read and reason. Let me take these two R's a bit farther and say that not only do Christians need to read and reason, but all Americans need to do more of these as well. Let me explain!
As citizens, we need to read. We need to read newspapers, blogs (especially this one!), news sites, and books. Knowledge is not neutral - you have to be actively involved. Too many people today allow themselves to be told what's important, what's fact, what's true, what's historically accurate, etc. They allow themselves to be told what their opinion is on the issues of our day instead of forming their own opinion. We must get our brains out of neutral and start reading so we can make informed decisions on the issues of our day. Here's an example. Have you formed your own opinion on abortion based on what you've read about it or is your opinion on abortion based on your political affiliation?
Next, as citizens we need to reason. Why should we be against abortion? Why is it important that we elect honorable people? Why is it important that we have a moral government? We need to reason why these and other issues matter. We need to reason - determine - that we will stand for what is right. (Remember, truth is truth no matter how many are against it!)
I challenge all of us to pick an issue and read about it and make your own opinion about it. Then do something about it - get involved!
(Cross-posted at http://www.backtotheconstitution.org/)
As citizens, we need to read. We need to read newspapers, blogs (especially this one!), news sites, and books. Knowledge is not neutral - you have to be actively involved. Too many people today allow themselves to be told what's important, what's fact, what's true, what's historically accurate, etc. They allow themselves to be told what their opinion is on the issues of our day instead of forming their own opinion. We must get our brains out of neutral and start reading so we can make informed decisions on the issues of our day. Here's an example. Have you formed your own opinion on abortion based on what you've read about it or is your opinion on abortion based on your political affiliation?
Next, as citizens we need to reason. Why should we be against abortion? Why is it important that we elect honorable people? Why is it important that we have a moral government? We need to reason why these and other issues matter. We need to reason - determine - that we will stand for what is right. (Remember, truth is truth no matter how many are against it!)
I challenge all of us to pick an issue and read about it and make your own opinion about it. Then do something about it - get involved!
(Cross-posted at http://www.backtotheconstitution.org/)
Christians Persecuted in Burma and China
I've written several posts on the persecution of Christians in Burma (Myanmar) and want to give some updates. Unfortunately, they are not encouraging updates. I also wanted to call to your attention to the persecution of a Christian in China.
This year the government of Burma has continued in its path of persecution for Christians. The persecution of Christians has come in the form of closing churches, stopping Christians from meeting in homes/apartments, and refusing permits to build new churches.
You can read more on Burma's Christian persecution at the following:
Burma tightens restrictions on Christian Worship
Christians in Rangoon avoid churches
Now I would like to call your attention to China's persecution of one of it's Christian citizens, Gao Zhisheng. Gao Zhisheng is a Christian and has been imprisoned and tortured by the Chinese government for his faith. I ask that you visit www.freegao.com to find out more information on his compelling story and get involved by signing an on-line petition.
The persecution of Christians didn't end with the fall of the Roman Empire. There are several nations in the world where it is a crime to have faith in Christ. I encourage you to find a good organization that works to help persecuted Christians and become involved. Let's raise the awareness of our brothers and sisters in Christ - pray for them and do something for them!
This year the government of Burma has continued in its path of persecution for Christians. The persecution of Christians has come in the form of closing churches, stopping Christians from meeting in homes/apartments, and refusing permits to build new churches.
You can read more on Burma's Christian persecution at the following:
Burma tightens restrictions on Christian Worship
Christians in Rangoon avoid churches
Now I would like to call your attention to China's persecution of one of it's Christian citizens, Gao Zhisheng. Gao Zhisheng is a Christian and has been imprisoned and tortured by the Chinese government for his faith. I ask that you visit www.freegao.com to find out more information on his compelling story and get involved by signing an on-line petition.
The persecution of Christians didn't end with the fall of the Roman Empire. There are several nations in the world where it is a crime to have faith in Christ. I encourage you to find a good organization that works to help persecuted Christians and become involved. Let's raise the awareness of our brothers and sisters in Christ - pray for them and do something for them!
Foxx Calls For More Government Transparency on Finances
The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx
Foxx praises decision to post House expenditures online
Calls for more transparency for $1 trillion in other federal spending
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx released the following statement today after it was reported that the House of Representatives will begin posting individual representatives expense reports online. The Wall Street Journal reported today that, starting August 31, American taxpayers will be able to view the quarterly reports of Representatives’ expenditures.
“America’s taxpayers deserve to know how their tax dollars are spent,” Foxx said. “I applaud this decision to post each Representatives’ spending on the Internet.
“My hope is that other federal agencies follow suit. After all, if Congress, not known for its 21st century ways, can account online for every cent it spends, why not the rest of the sprawling federal government?
“The rest of the federal government agencies will spend more than $1 trillion in taxpayer dollars this year. These agencies should follow the example being set by the House and begin to publicly divulge the details of how taxpayer money is spent. This would do much to remedy the Washington mindset that the money belongs to Washington and not the people.”
Note: Members of the House of Representative are currently required to file quarterly reports detailing every dollar of spending made by their Congressional offices.
The House of Representatives will spend $794.3 million to fund all House Committees and the office budgets of each of the 435 Representatives in 2009. This amounts to less than 1/10 of 1% of the more than $1 trillion in federal government agency expenditures for 2009—spending that is not available online for taxpayer scrutiny.
Foxx praises decision to post House expenditures online
Calls for more transparency for $1 trillion in other federal spending
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx released the following statement today after it was reported that the House of Representatives will begin posting individual representatives expense reports online. The Wall Street Journal reported today that, starting August 31, American taxpayers will be able to view the quarterly reports of Representatives’ expenditures.
“America’s taxpayers deserve to know how their tax dollars are spent,” Foxx said. “I applaud this decision to post each Representatives’ spending on the Internet.
“My hope is that other federal agencies follow suit. After all, if Congress, not known for its 21st century ways, can account online for every cent it spends, why not the rest of the sprawling federal government?
“The rest of the federal government agencies will spend more than $1 trillion in taxpayer dollars this year. These agencies should follow the example being set by the House and begin to publicly divulge the details of how taxpayer money is spent. This would do much to remedy the Washington mindset that the money belongs to Washington and not the people.”
Note: Members of the House of Representative are currently required to file quarterly reports detailing every dollar of spending made by their Congressional offices.
The House of Representatives will spend $794.3 million to fund all House Committees and the office budgets of each of the 435 Representatives in 2009. This amounts to less than 1/10 of 1% of the more than $1 trillion in federal government agency expenditures for 2009—spending that is not available online for taxpayer scrutiny.
Foxx Named "Defender of Liberty"
The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.
Foxx named “Defender of Liberty” by conservative group
American Conservative Union recognizes Foxx for conservative voting record
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union, the nation’s largest grassroots conservative organization, today named Foxx a “Defender of Liberty” for her strong conservative voting record in the 110th Congress. Foxx received the award thanks to her record of protecting liberty and fighting against Washington’s big-government agenda.
“The American Conservative Union has given its 2008 Defender of Liberty award to Congresswoman Virginia Foxx for her support for conservative principles on a wide variety of issues,” said ACU Chairman David A. Keene. “Congresswoman Foxx’s lifetime rating of 99.0 over 4 years of service reflects someone who grassroots conservatives can look to for leadership.”
The ACU gives the award to members of Congress who have a consistent record of voting for personal freedom and limited government. The 2008 ACU ratings were based on a collection of votes on 25 different pieces of legislation including the Wall Street bailout, federal budget and tax bills and the automaker bailout. Foxx was among a select group who received the “Defender of Liberty” award for scoring a 100% ACU rating with her 2008 record.
“Defending our tradition of liberty and individual responsibility means refusing to jump on the big-government bailout bandwagon or join in the Washington spending spree,” Foxx said. “I’m honored that the ACU recognized me as one of the conservatives in Congress who want to see American liberty restored to its rightful place in our nation’s capital.”
Foxx named “Defender of Liberty” by conservative group
American Conservative Union recognizes Foxx for conservative voting record
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union, the nation’s largest grassroots conservative organization, today named Foxx a “Defender of Liberty” for her strong conservative voting record in the 110th Congress. Foxx received the award thanks to her record of protecting liberty and fighting against Washington’s big-government agenda.
“The American Conservative Union has given its 2008 Defender of Liberty award to Congresswoman Virginia Foxx for her support for conservative principles on a wide variety of issues,” said ACU Chairman David A. Keene. “Congresswoman Foxx’s lifetime rating of 99.0 over 4 years of service reflects someone who grassroots conservatives can look to for leadership.”
The ACU gives the award to members of Congress who have a consistent record of voting for personal freedom and limited government. The 2008 ACU ratings were based on a collection of votes on 25 different pieces of legislation including the Wall Street bailout, federal budget and tax bills and the automaker bailout. Foxx was among a select group who received the “Defender of Liberty” award for scoring a 100% ACU rating with her 2008 record.
“Defending our tradition of liberty and individual responsibility means refusing to jump on the big-government bailout bandwagon or join in the Washington spending spree,” Foxx said. “I’m honored that the ACU recognized me as one of the conservatives in Congress who want to see American liberty restored to its rightful place in our nation’s capital.”
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