Jerry Falwell recently wrote an email to his followers concerning the 2008 election and what type of candidate could win the "energized" evangelical vote.
"Fiscally, evangelicals will be looking for a President who will intrepidly seek to rein in the out-of-control federal spending. "
Ok, but why? I'm not giving a judgment on whether curbing spending is right or wrong, but why is this important to evangelicals? And just how politicians aren't out there to spend money anyway? Falwell loves Bush, and Bush has helped spend as much or more than any president ever.
"And we will not accept a candidate who is soft on the war on terror, whether here at home (the Patriot Act, domestic surveillance, etc.) or in Iraq, or wherever."
First of all, not all of us evangelicals are behind the war and it's insulting that Jerry thinks we all are. And second, I can't believe he's down with how domestic surveillance is going. Sure, you may have nothing to hide so you civil liberties aren't being stepped on. And you may be ok with the current administration having this power, but about when you political opponents have it? Huh?
"And here is that second burning issue. I believe our nation can become virtually energy-independent, in terms of oil production. Our coastlines are bursting with crude oil as are other vast oil fields within our American borders. But a handful of environmental alarmists have convinced many lawmakers to pretend the oil is not there."
No Jerry, we need to halt the oil lobby and those lining politicians pockets so that technology can take the day and we don't have to depend oil at all. Look at all we have done and created and tell me we can't find an alternative.
He spent a very large portion of the email on illegal immigration. And while it is a problem, I haven't heard a solution yet from either side I am crazy about. But Jerry's attitude shines through with the quote.
"If the next President is to preserve the America we have enjoyed for 230 years, he or she must have the courage to practice tough love on this issue."
If this means what I think it does, Jerry is continuing to scare the hell out of me. Most of that 230 years hasn't been enjoyed by all Americans. But Jerry being white, rich, and blessed in ministry either doesn't see that, or chooses to ignore it.
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