The Conservative Voice

Word For The Day: Socialism

2009-06-28T12:12:00.004-04:00

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

Foxx Votes "No" On Energy Tax

2009-06-26T20:33:00.002-04:00

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 Cosponsors Energy Legislation

2009-06-13T13:43:00.001-04:00

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.

We Need 2 R's

2009-06-05T09:28:00.002-04:00

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/)

Christians Persecuted in Burma and China

2009-06-05T08:59:00.002-04:00

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!

Foxx Calls For More Government Transparency on Finances

2009-06-05T07:21:00.001-04:00

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 Named "Defender of Liberty"

2009-06-05T07:11:00.002-04:00

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 Honors Women Veterans

2009-05-24T19:58:00.001-04:00

The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.

Foxx honors women veterans at Arlington Cemetery
Participates in Annual Women in the Military Wreath Laying Ceremony

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx today honored the women of America’s military at the 12th Annual Women in the Military Wreath Laying Ceremony which took place at the Arlington Cemetery Women’s Memorial. The wreath laying ceremony in advance of the Memorial Day holiday honored servicewomen who have died while serving the U.S.
“Women have served our nation from its birth to the present and have willingly laid down their lives for the cause of liberty,” Foxx said. “Today we give honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”

In addition to memorializing those women who died in the line of duty, the ceremony also highlighted the service of women currently enlisted in the armed forces. Senior enlisted women from each service branch, including the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, represented their fellow women service members.

During the Arlington Cemetery wreath laying Foxx acknowledged the sacrifices of enlisted women in each branch of the armed forces. Foxx specifically honored Army Master Sergeant Flora McKnight, Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Min Sook Ellis, Navy Senior Chief Yeoman Dee Allen, Air Force Master Sergeant Dianna Kent and Coast Guard Master Chief Storekeeper Beth Dunn, each of whom were present at the ceremony.

“Enlisted women play a critical role in the professionalism and readiness of our military,” Foxx said. “The presence of the women here today testifies to the achievements of women in our armed forces.”

Conservatives - Please Read This!

2009-04-21T14:26:00.002-04:00

This was written by Governor Mike Huckabee and it really struck home with me. (I edited out some of it for space.) As a conservative voter, I need to be active and not sit on the sidelines hoping things go my way. Please read this and then get involved!

Enough already of the hand-wringing and night sweats about the demise of the conservative movement!

Conservatives aren't challenged because of the basic principles that define us, but by the failure of the principles being translated into policy and practice. Gandhi once said, "If Christians would really live according to the teachings of Christ, as found in the Bible, all of India would be Christian today."

I would be so brazen to say that if conservatives would really live according to the principles of classic conservatism, all of America would be conservative today. The crisis is not one over the precepts, but the practice. It's not that we've failed in our doctrine, but our "doing."

Conservatives believe that the best government is the most local government possible and that the 10th Amendment means something and should be followed. Yet, the supposedly conservative Republican Party has been a drum major for the expanded role of the federal government.

Our founders feared a highly centralized and endowed federal government, instead preferring a system of strong and virtually independent states so that no one person, party, or power broker would exercise a great deal of control. The inherent danger of allowing too much power in the hands of the few was the heart of the major dispute between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton. Jefferson won, believing that the dispersing of power among the states would by design keep the federal government from becoming too consuming and powerful in its approach to governing.

The genius of the 10th Amendment, as is true of all of the Bill of Rights, was that it deliberately limited what the government could do - not what the individual could do. The 10th Amendment defines the limits of the federal government in 28 words: "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people." Over the past few years, Republicans have been either acquiescing in or encouraging the acquisition of more power and control by the federal government - in policy shifts in education, health care, and even how a driver's license looks.

Perhaps no other example is more glaring than having painfully watched so-called Washington conservatives abandon the most fundamental principle of conservatism - fiscal restraint. A Republican administration pushed for and got the authority to spend $700 billion that we had to borrow from our grandchildren's future so we could do what government has no business doing - picking out winners and losers in the private sector marketplace. It was especially disgusting to me to watch some of the very leaders who had smugly dismissed my candidacy for president because I had the audacity to speak out against the excesses of Wall Street and Washington as early as February 2007 now stand up and flop-sweat as they explained why they were about to support the government taking off the striped shirts of the referee and put on the jersey of a team to play the game for one team against another all in the name of "saving the markets." By abandoning our bedrock conservative principles, and those of our founding fathers, they risked ruining our country to save the markets.

What gives me hope is my belief that the party of Reagan will reunite behind the consistent conservative policies that have made our country great - policies that empower individuals, families, and entrepreneurs, not government, to shape our own destinies. If we do that, we will not fail.

We don't need so much to redefine conservatism. Just practice the real thing.

NC State Budget - An Accident Waiting To Happen?

2009-04-04T08:27:00.002-04:00

NC State Senator Peter Brunstetter (31st District) had the following to say about the upcoming NC state budget in a 4/2/09 newsletter: "The other ingredient for next week’s storm is most likely to be the Senate budget. We are hearing that the budget will be released to the public and the Senate early next week, although that information is second hand at best. One of the biggest sources of frustration to me, as a Senator, is my inability to participate meaningfully in the budget process. There has been a lot of work going on in the Senate, behind closed doors, but the activity has been restricted to only a handful of Senators.

The primary participants are what are called the “Big Chairs”. In other words the four co-chairs of the Appropriations/Base Budget Committee, the President Pro Tempore and the Majority Leader. There may be a few others who drift in and out of the process. Other than that, most of the Senate waits for the budget to be delivered to it...We will then have a very short time (often less than 24 hours) to review the massive document before the first vote is taken in Committee, with a floor vote shortly thereafter. The group that I mentioned above has been working on the budget for months, and yet the rest of us need to turn it over night. Something isn’t right about that picture.

I suppose that some centralization is necessary. With 50 people expected to vote, there does need to be reliance upon a core group of leaders at some point. The majority party has the privilege of leading that charge. In our Senate though, the centralization and secrecy almost borders on paranoia, shielding the budget from Republicans, the Press and the public until the last possible moment. In the ten years that I chaired the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, I bent over backwards to make sure that Republicans and Democrats alike had a full voice in the budget process. I knew where the majority votes would come from, but the input from our Democrats was often very helpful and constructive and shaped a budget that was fairer and more reflective of the entire community’s priorities. Eight of the ten budget votes taken while I was Chairman were unanimous. I think that there would be many more Republicans who would vote affirmatively on state budget issues if there was a meaningful opportunity for participation and input. It’s hard to vote for, and place your stamp of approval on, a budget you have had less than 24 hours to review." (I put in bold print information I thought was important, they were not in bold print in the newsletter.)

I appreciate Senator Brunstetter's concerns with our state's budget. Didn't anyone in Raleigh pay attention to the budget fiasco in Washington, DC not long ago? Did they not see Senators tell us they voted on a budget they didn't read that authorized bonuses to AIG? With the economic issues we face in our state, it would be in our best interests to allow our elected officials the appropriate amount of time to review and vote on our state's budget.

Foxx Opposes Debt-Financed Budget

2009-04-04T08:23:00.001-04:00

The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx

Foxx opposes massive, debt-financed budget
Votes in favor of alternative budget that keeps spending in check

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx (NC-05) voted last night against the Democrat budget that produces more than $9 trillion in new debt over the next ten years, in addition to raising taxes by more than $1.4 trillion. She also voted in favor of the Republican alternative budget that puts a lid on runaway government spending and keeps taxes low for North Carolina families.

“The choice was clear,” Foxx said. “It was a choice between a budget that borrows and spends unprecedented amounts of money and a Republican alternative that recognizes that we cannot borrow and spend our way to prosperity—that’s what got us into this mess in the first place.”

The Democrat budget plan remakes the federal government, creating the largest federal government since World War II. In the process of growing the size of the federal government the Democrat budget creates a record-setting deficit—$1.75 trillion. In contrast, the Republican alternative budget would save the nation $3.6 trillion over the next ten years.

But the differences don’t stop with debt and spending. The Republican alternative also refrains from raising taxes—unlike the Democrats’ budget, which raises taxes by $1.4 trillion over ten years.

Another key difference is the approach to energy policy. The Democrats’ budget contains so-called “cap and trade” provisions that will put a cap on carbon emissions and by extension, economic growth. This plan will raise the cost of energy for every sector of the economy and, according to the National Association of Manufacturers, will ship 3-4 million jobs oversees where energy costs will be much lower.

Instead of punishing Americans with a new energy taxes, the Republican budget pursues energy independence with an innovative plan that aggressively focuses on alternative energy without creating new taxes and government mandates.

“Two budgets with two sets of priorities: one budget means more government, more debt and more taxes,” Foxx said. “The GOP alternative, on the other hand, means a return to a common-sense approach to government that emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility instead of a big-government, nanny state.”

American Leadership - An Example From History

2009-03-29T00:35:00.004-04:00

William Travis was the leader of the Alamo when it fell. On March 3, 1836 Travis addressed the men within the walls of the Alamo. As their leader he had to deliver the tough message and admit his mistakes. He had been requesting assistance from others to come and help defend the Alamo, and on March 3 he was informed that no one was coming. He called a meeting and said, "I have deceived you by the promise of help…" and then went on to explain that his calls for help will go unanswered. He went on to say, "Our fate is sealed. Within a very few days - perhaps a very few hours - we must all be in eternity. This is our destiny and we cannot avoid it…"

After his speech, he drew a line in the sand with his sword and asked, "I now want every man who is determined to stay here and die with me to come across this line." All but one soldier crossed that line in the sand.

This is an example from history of great American leadership in action. Travis did not willingly or knowingly deceive his men about help - he did let them know that he had requested it. But some may have felt he had deceived them to keep them from running away, so he accepted the blame for that. He told his followers the real deal, he didn't hide the truth from them.

That is what a good leader does - if it's perceived that you made a mistake or actually made a mistake, own up to it and let your people know. Always share the true picture with your people so they can make informed decisions. Travis' speech was true, for within 3 days he and his men gave their lives at the Alamo.

Cross-posted at Back to the Constitution

March 31 - Participate in Red Envelope Day

2009-03-23T22:28:00.003-04:00

On March 31st I'm asking everyone who reads this to participate in Red Envelope Day. By participating you are taking a stand for life and taking a stand for what is right. Please participate and encourage everyone you know to participate as well. Thank you!

Cross-posted at Back To The Constitution

Foxx: A Dictionary of Spending

2009-03-13T12:10:00.003-04:00

The following article by NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx is from an email newsletter.

$5,700,000,000,000 tab rung up in six months
By Congresswoman Virginia Foxx

The approach of springtime is notable for two things in Washington: cherry blossoms and budget season. Washington’s famous cherry trees haven’t yet emerged from their winter hiatus, but the budget juggernaut is already in full swing. As you can probably imagine, it’s not a pretty picture.

Before we take a closer look at the budget it is important that we lay some groundwork. The past six months have witnessed an historic and unprecedented spending spree in Washington.
In the rush to bailout anything that moves, almost any fiscal context has been lost. Stimulus package, bailout, trillion dollar budget deficits. Each of these terms has steadily lost meaning over the course of our economic meltdown. For the sake of clarity here are a few definitions and please bear with me if you are one of those who have this all down pat.

TARP bailout: passed by Congress last fall and signed by President Bush. This program set aside $700 billion to buy the so-called toxic assets (mostly bad mortgage debt) held by America’s banks. Of this amount, $350 billion was made available immediately and the second half required Congressional sign-off. The second $350 billion was recently approved by the Senate for President Obama to use as he see’s fit. I joined a bipartisan group in voting against the TARP bailout in 2008 and 2009.

Stimulus package: passed by Congress in February. This package had a price tag of about $800 billion. Despite the promise of no earmarks, it was plagued from the start with pet projects and carve-outs for special interests. President Obama pushed for its passage as a job creation measure. Because it contained little in the way of job-creating tax cuts and instead was stuffed full of expensive big government programs that will do almost nothing to revive our economy, I voted against it.

Omnibus appropriations: nine separate budget bills totaling $410 billion that passed the House in late February. As a holdover from last year’s spending legislation this bill finishes the job of appropriating money to many federal agencies. It contains about 9,000 earmarks and represents an 8.3 percent increase over the previous year’s spending. This massive bill included spending gems such as money for tattoo removal programs in California and huge funding increases for UN programs that promote and provide abortions around the world.

Housing bailout: a plan proposed by President Obama in mid-February that will spend $275 billion in an effort to stabilize the housing market. The problem with this housing bailout plan lies in the simple fact that it rewards bad behavior—something called “moral hazard” by economists. This plan will use taxpayer money to lower the payments of homeowners who bought houses they can’t afford.

Of course more than 90 percent of American homeowners are current on their mortgages and are not in danger of losing their homes. This plan does not give those who played by the rules a fair shake. Instead it rewards bad behavior and risky lending practices. In turn it punishes hardworking families who are paying their mortgages on time and are trying to make ends meet in a troubled economy.

President Obama’s Budget Request: last but certainly not least, President Obama presented his proposed budget to Congress in the last week of February. It will serve as a guideline for next year’s federal spending. This year, federal spending will approach $4 trillion–a one-third increase in the size of government in a single year. His budget blueprint for next year totals $3.5 trillion and provides $750 billion for yet another bank bailout (see TARP bailout), $646 billion in taxes on energy and an overall increase in non-defense spending of 9.3 percent.

All told these proposals and programs total about $5,700,000,000,000 in federal spending—a number thought inconceivable until now.

I am sure that many of the loudest voices in favor of government bailouts in the banking sector, the housing market, and anywhere else that “needs” an infusion of your tax dollars sincerely believe runaway spending is the cure for what ails this economy.

The proponents of massive government spending claim that this money will stimulate the economy. That remains to be seen and with very little of the money going to actual job-creating projects, I’m convinced that it may simply inflate our debt and do more harm than good.
But even if these programs, from bank bailouts to bloated budgets, fail to achieve their purpose, America has an ace up its sleeve. America is a strong and resilient nation and I am confident that once again American ingenuity and hard-working Americans will bring us back—even if today’s policies are flawed and misguided.

Foxx Opposes "Card-Check" Union Legislation

2009-03-13T12:05:00.002-04:00

The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.

Foxx voices opposition to union ‘card-check’ legislation
Co-sponsors Secret Ballot Protection Act to preserve workers’ rights

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today voiced strong opposition to union “card check” legislation that was introduced today. The legislation, the so-called Employee Free Choice Act, halts workers’ rights to vote by secret ballot in union organizing elections.

“Because I support workers’ rights to unionize without harassment, I must oppose this anti-worker legislation, Foxx said. “The secret ballot is a foundational element of a free and open society. Its demise would signal a serious decline in freedom in America, not to mention a harsh blow to struggling workers in today’s tough economy.”

Card check legislation strips workers of truly free choice in union organizing elections, opening the elections to coercion and intimidation. Instead of mandating a secret ballot vote, this legislation changes the rules to allow for unionization by a public signing of cards by workers.

In theory, those signing cards would support joining a union: hence the term, “card check.” However, rather than allowing workers to make their choice in secrecy, the act would end workers’ right to privacy in one of the most important decisions they make about the future of their workplace.

“This whole card check idea has a whiff of big-brotherism,” Foxx said. “With card check, someone’s always looking over your shoulder. This simply blows the unionization process wide open to fraud and intimidation.”

Rep. Foxx is also an original cosponsor of the Secret Ballot Protection Act—legislation that preserves workers’ right to a secret ballot in unionization elections.

Foxx voted against the Employee Free Choice Act in 2007 when it was brought up for a vote in the 110th Congress. Even Obama supporter and advisor, businessman Warren Buffet opposes card check legislation.

Speak Up For Those Who Can't

2009-03-08T20:36:00.003-04:00

The Obama administration makes it very clear where they stand on abortion. This is what it says on the White House’s site: “President Obama understands that abortion is a divisive issue, and respects those who disagree with him. However, he has been a consistent champion of reproductive choice and will make preserving women's rights under Roe v. Wade a priority in his Administration. He opposes any constitutional amendment to overturn the Supreme Court's decision in that case.” President Obama is clear on his position, and some of his recent actions back-up his support of aborting life.

God has also made His position clear on the subject of abortion. He is the Author of life and He is the One that gave us the right to life. Even a cursory view of Scripture makes it irrefutable that God is the Author of life. Take a few moments to look at Genesis 20:18; 29:31 and 30:2. In Deuteronomy 30:19 He says, “…Therefore choose life…” (ESV) (While I understand the context of this verse is not dealing with abortion, however, it does make the Lord’s position clear.)

There is no middle ground between these two positions.

I still cannot reconcile our nation’s founding documents with our government’s policy of taking life. Their can be no misunderstanding what our founding fathers meant when they wrote, “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.” The Declaration of Independence rightly declares we have the unalienable right to life and this right comes from our Creator (God), not from our government. This also is clear in the very next sentence from the Declaration, “That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” Putting these truths together you can say God has given man the unalienable right to life, and government has been instituted to secure this right.

Proverbs 31:8-9 says we need to speak for those that cannot speak and to defend the rights of the needy. Who is more silent than a baby in the womb? Who is more defenseless than a precious baby in the womb? Will you speak for them and defend them?

(This article is cross-posted at Back To The Constitution)

Separation Of Church And State

2009-03-01T10:54:00.002-05:00

Open your Bible to Hezekiah 7:14 and you will read the well-known and oft quoted verse, “Heaven helps those who help themselves.” Ok, the fact of the matter is that verse, although often quoted, is not in the Bible. The book of Hezekiah is not in the Bible either, in case you were wondering! My point is, no matter how hard you look in the Bible you will not find that quote despite the popular belief that it is a biblical quote.

There is a similar belief about the well-known and oft quoted phrase, “the separation of church and state.” Popular belief is that this phrase is in the Constitution. The fact of the matter is the phrase is not in the Constitution or the Declaration of Independence. (Maybe it’s in Hezekiah 7:15!)

While he was President, Thomas Jefferson received a letter from the Danbury Baptist Association in Connecticut. They wrote their letter on October 7, 1801 (ten years after the First Amendment had been ratified) because of their concern with Connecticut’s history of a state church. Historically, Connecticut’s official state church had taken action against Connecticut Baptists such as taxation and imprisonment. As an example of the persecution the Connecticut Baptists had suffered, the following happened in 1744: “…fourteen persons were arrested for holding a Baptist meeting, . . . tried, fined, and driven on foot through a deep mud (in February) to New London, a distance of twenty-five miles, and thrust into prison, without fire, food, or beds, where they remained, enduring dreadful sufferings, for several weeks." (The Baptists Encyclopedia, 1881)

It was this historical background that prompted the Danbury Baptist Association to write to President Jefferson concerning their fears of a state or even a federal church. They wrote in part, “Our sentiments are uniformly on the side of religious liberty: that Religion is at all times and places a matter between God and individuals, that no man ought to suffer in name, person, or effects on account of his religious opinions, [and] that the legitimate power of civil government extends no further than to punish the man who works ill to his neighbor. But sir, our constitution of government is not specific. Our ancient charter, together with the laws made coincident therewith, were adapted as the basis of our government at the time of our revolution. And such has been our laws and usages, and such still are, [so] that Religion is considered as the first object of Legislation, and therefore what religious privileges we enjoy (as a minor part of the State) we enjoy as favors granted, and not as inalienable rights. And these favors we receive at the expense of such degrading acknowledgments, as are inconsistent with the rights of freemen. It is not to be wondered at therefore, if those who seek after power and gain, under the pretense of government and Religion, should reproach their fellow men, [or] should reproach their Chief Magistrate, as an enemy of religion, law, and good order, because he will not, dares not, assume the prerogative of Jehovah and make laws to govern the Kingdom of Christ.”

Jefferson responded on January 1, 1802 and his letter stated, “Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between man and his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legislative powers of government reach actions only, and not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature would "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church and State.” And there you have it, the phrase “separation of church and state.”

Even more interesting is Jefferson’s original draft of his letter. The original draft, which was not sent, showed Jefferson clearly stating that as President he would not preside as leader over a state church. Jefferson wrote, “I have refrained from prescribing even those occasional performances of devotion, practiced indeed by the Executive of another nation as the legal head of its church, but subject here [in America], as religious exercises only to the voluntary regulations and discipline of each respective sect…” In other words, the President of the United States is not a religious leader or head of a state church.

I hope this has put the “separation of church and state” phrase in its proper perspective. It is not in the Constitution or Declaration of Independence. It was merely one phrase in a letter from President Jefferson trying to assure a group of Connecticut Baptists that the US would not have a state church.

Cross-posted at Back To The Constitution

North Carolina Republicans File Marriage Definition Bill

2009-02-27T13:31:00.003-05:00

The following is from a press release from the NCGOP.

TIME FOR PEOPLE TO DECIDE ON MARRIAGE AMENDMENT

NCGOP Press ReleaseFebruary 24, 2009RALEIGH— North Carolina House Republicans will file another bill this week to place on the ballot an amendment to the North Carolina Constitution to affirm the definition of marriage as constituting a union between one man and one woman. Previous versions of the bill have failed to move forward in the legislature due to the obstruction of Speaker Joe Hackney and other powerful Democrats in the General Assembly.

Chairman Linda Daves, North Carolina Republican Party, made the following statement:"There has been much debate about the proper definition of marriage within the confines of North Carolina law. Both sides have had their opinions heard and the debate has engaged the broader public. There comes a time in a democracy when the time for debate ends and the time for voting commences. Now is that time. The people of North Carolina should be the ones to decide how our state will define marriage. I call on Democrat leaders of the General Assembly to allow the people to make that choice."

Foxx Votes Against Spending Bill

2009-02-27T07:10:00.001-05:00

The following is a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.

Huge spending bill passes House, national debt increases
Foxx votes against $410 billion bill, votes for increased earmark transparency

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today voted in opposition to a massive spending bill (H.R. 1105) that once again increases federal government spending at a time of record budget deficits. H.R. 1105, which completes the funding process for the federal government for fiscal year 2009, spends $410 billion, 8.3 percent more than 2008.

“The federal budget is growing by 8.3 percent, while family budgets are shrinking,” Foxx said. “At a time when Americans are tightening their belts, Washington is on a reckless spending spree. This is irresponsible.”

When the spending legislation passed before the end of 2008 is factoring in, federal discretionary spending will reach $1.01 trillion for 2009. This is the first time in U.S. history that the federal discretionary budget has passed the $1 trillion mark. Additionally, federal agencies lucky enough to get money from both this spending legislation and the recently-enacted stimulus bill are about to see their funding jump by 80 percent—nearly doubling some agencies’ budgets in a single year.

“Congress has jacked up the federal debt limit four times in the past 17 months in order to accommodate Washington’s profligate spending,” Foxx said. “Thanks to this new massive bill it is just a matter of time until we take out yet another mortgage on our children’s future earnings.”

H.R. 1105 also undermines the United States’ long-standing opposition to China’s one child policy and coercive abortion practices by increasing funding to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) by 25 percent. The UNFPA supports China’s destructive one child policy. The bill also gives organizations that promote and provide abortions around the world access to $545 million in federal funding.

In a related vote today Foxx voted in favor of legislation that would help to clean up the Congressional earmark system. The legislation would be a first step towards requiring members of Congress to list campaign contributions that serve as a financial interest in lawmakers’ earmark requests.

Is It Really A Stimulus?

2009-02-22T21:22:00.003-05:00

The economic stimulus package will only put an extra $13 in your wallet. Now the question has to be asked, is that really a stimulus or has the TARP (along with the wool!) been pulled over our eyes?

I disagreed with the package, and I'm glad a good number of lawmakers did too. The Republican Caucus House Committee on the Budget stated the stimulus was, "little more than an expensive, disjointed Democratic wish-list of government spending – and a missed opportunity to pass the kind of efficient, effective fiscal response Americans deserve." Another key concern is the plan was still heavy laden with "pork" that had nothing to do with our current economic situation.

Here are some articles you can review on the stimulus:
Will Obama tax cut stimulate consumer spending
H&R Block news release on 2009 stimulus
H&R Block chart on stimulus breakdown for taxpayers
Obama's Democrats now own 99.4% of American economy

Please don't get me wrong - I am not trying to be all "gloom and doom" about our nation's economy. I strongly believe in our nation's ability to get out of our current economic mess. We Americans have faced similar struggles in the past, and through God's help we came through them. We need to continue to seek Him and His guidance and wisdom for our nation's leaders and the decisions they are making for us and future generations.

Christians In Politics?

2009-02-13T22:55:00.002-05:00

Here's a video of Dr. Ron Baity, Pastor of Berean Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC discussing the Christian's role in politics. He is president of Return America, a group dedicated to returning our country to our Judeo-Christian values.

Foxx On Stimulus Bill - "We Can Do Better"

2009-02-13T22:29:00.000-05:00

Foxx statement on final stimulus vote
“We can do better.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) released the following statement today after the passage of the ‘stimulus’ package:

“America faces great economic challenges and Congress must take decisive action to stem this economic tide,” Foxx said. “And yet in the face of these challenges Congress has passed a bill that will not effectively help our economy. We can do better.”

“This stimulus bill is generational theft—passing on a record-breaking pile of debt to the next generation. Instead of targeting the real sources of job creation, America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs, this legislation is honeycombed with pet projects to satisfy liberal special interests.”

“We can do better. Americans are hurting and runaway government spending is not the only thing that can fix this recession. A fast-acting and job-creating tax cut-based alternative that I voted for would have created twice the jobs at half the cost.”

“Attempting to borrow and spend our way to prosperity is failed policy. We can do better.”

“Today it saddens me that I cannot support this highly flawed stimulus package. Thanks to an opaque legislative process, we have had fewer than 12 hours to review the final legislation that runs to more than 1,000 pages. Very strong and viable compromises have been ignored. We could have done better.”

Foxx Calls Stimulus Bill "Generational Theft"

2009-02-13T22:27:00.000-05:00

Foxx presents 11,000 NC signatures opposing stimulus to Congress
Petition calls for reining in stimulus spending & big government

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today joined Members of Congress and Americans for Prosperity to present more than 425,000 petition signatures to Congress, including 11,086 from North Carolina, in opposition to runaway government spending in the current stimulus package (you can download hi-res photos here).

“This stimulus bill is generational theft,” Foxx said at a Washington, DC press conference this afternoon. “Americans are hurting and Washington Democrats decide that government spending is the only answer despite calls to enact fast, job-creating tax cuts. Republicans have proposed an alternative that creates twice the jobs at half the cost.”

More than 425,000 Americans have signed a petition started by grassroots group Americans for Prosperity that urges Congress halt wasteful stimulus spending and the rampant growth of long-term national debt. Foxx joined Tim Phillips, president of AFP, and Congresswoman Tom Price (R-Ga.), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee, in presenting the signatures to Congress.

“Hundreds of thousands of Americans are making their voices heard,” Foxx said. “Instead of borrowing and spending our way to prosperity, they want us to take a responsible and balanced approach that gives meaningful tax cuts to small businesses and hard-working families.”

Congress is expected to begin debate on the final version of the stimulus package today. Final passage could come as early as Friday.

If you would like to schedule an interview with Congresswoman Foxx on the stimulus package please contact Aaron Groen at (202) 225-2071.

Foxx Calls For Bipartisan Negotiations On Stimulus

2009-02-13T22:24:00.000-05:00

Foxx Calls for Openness, Bipartisan Negotiations on Stimulus
“Pass a bill that helps struggling workers get back on their feet”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) today made the following statement on the House floor after the Senate passed its version of the stimulus. Foxx called on the Democratic majority (watch video) to allow House Republicans to bring their ideas to the negotiating table as the House and Senate hammer out the differences between the two competing stimulus bills:

“America faces an unambiguously dramatic economic downturn,” Foxx told the House of Representatives. “And Americans are hurting in this very difficult economic time.”

“But Republicans in the House are still waiting for an opportunity to bring our ideas for economic recovery to the table. So far we’ve have been shut out of negotiations.”

“For instance, Republicans have proposed real assistance for the unemployed by slashing federal taxes on unemployment benefits. But our suggestions for effective economic recovery have been ignored.

“The result? A bill that does little to stimulate the economy and lots to stimulate the federal government and our national debt.

“We must pass a bill that helps struggling workers get back on their feet and that encourages entrepreneurs—the real engines for job creation—to take risks again.

“Mr. Speaker, we cannot borrow and spend our way back to prosperity.

Note: The House Republicans’ alternative Economic Recovery Plan contains targeted tax cuts for every family and small business. It includes the following provisions:

Immediate Tax Relief for Working Families: Rather than a refundable credit based on payroll taxes, House Republicans propose reducing the lowest individual tax rates from 15% to 10% and from 10% to 5%. As a result every taxpaying-family in America will see an immediate increase in their income with an average benefit of $500 in tax relief from the drop in the 10% bracket and $1,200 for the drop in the 15% bracket. A married couple filing jointly could save up to $3,200 a year in taxes.

Real Help for America’s Small Businesses: Small businesses (those employing less than 500 individuals) employ about half of all Americans, yet they can be subject to tax rates that siphon away one-third or more of their income. House Republicans propose to allow small business to take a tax deduction equal to 20% of their income. This will immediately free up funds for small businesses to retain and hire new employees.

No Tax Increases to Pay for Spending: The stimulus proposal pending in Congress includes record levels of government spending that will substantially increase the current deficit. House Republicans are concerned that this level of spending will result in new tax increases on American working families. House Republicans are insisting that any stimulus package include a provision precluding any tax increases now or in the future to pay for this new spending. House Republicans believe that any stimulus spending should be paid for by reducing other government spending, not raising taxes.

Assistance for the Unemployed: Incredibly, the Federal Government actually imposes income taxes on an individual receiving unemployment benefits. House Republicans propose to make unemployment benefits tax free so that those individuals between jobs can focus on providing for their families. The plan would also extend unemployment benefits for a full year.

Stabilizing Home Values: The real-estate market is paralyzed as potential buyers wait on the sidelines waiting for prices to fall even further. This is becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. In order to encourage responsible buyers to enter the market and stabilize prices, House Republicans propose a home-buyers credit of $7,500 for those buyers who can make a minimum down-payment of 5%.

Foxx Bill For The Unemployed

2009-02-13T22:21:00.001-05:00

The following is from a press release from NC Congresswoman Virginia Foxx.

Foxx Co-sponsors Bill to Cut Taxes on Unemployment Benefits
Bill stops IRS from kicking jobless workers while they’re down

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) has co-sponsored legislation that will suspend income taxes on unemployment benefits paid to jobless workers. The IRS currently considers unemployment benefits to be “income” and levies normal income taxes on jobless workers that receive benefits.

“Many North Carolina families are struggling to make ends meet as they face the loss of jobs and income at this especially difficult time and, believe it or not, the federal government taxes their unemployment benefits,” Foxx said. “By stopping the unfair taxation of unemployment benefits we can help jobless workers stay afloat and eventually get back to work.”

The Suspension of Federal Income Tax on Unemployment Benefits Act (H.R. 155) suspends taxes on unemployment benefits for two years in an effort to help laid off workers make it through the current recession. Stopping the taxation of unemployment benefits will help millions of American families weather the economic storm by providing about $117 in additional monthly income to the average beneficiary.

“Taxing the unemployed does nothing to spur economic recovery,” Foxx said. “Instead of allowing the IRS to kick jobless workers while they are down, this legislation offers a common sense solution to put more money in the pockets of struggling families.”

Foxx is also pushing to include the suspension of unemployment benefits in the stimulus package making its way through Congress.