Capitol Report for July 2nd, 2008

Celebrating Our Freedom
The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are cornerstones within our government and they also serve as symbols of the hopes and freedoms of all Americans. This week, we will again celebrate our freedom and our independence. As we enjoy time with our friends and family, we must not forget that the Fourth of July is a celebration of our commitment to freedom and the belief that all people are endowed certain rights and liberties.
The Fourth of July is more than a birthday party for Uncle Sam. It is a celebration of our independence that reminds the world that we will forever stand against those who seek to oppress the free will or destroy the hope of another human being. As each year passes, we risk losing our understanding of what makes the Fourth of July so important, the sacrifices that have been made to secure our freedom, our liberty and our way of life. Most importantly, we must remember that the future of our democracy will not endure if we become apathetic to an oppressive big government.
Everyday, as I enter our State Capitol, I am reminded of the efforts of our founding fathers. They rose to fight against oppressive government and high taxation in order to form a more perfect union. They believed that the foundation of a nation should begin with the freedom from tyranny, persecution, and oppressive government. As we craft public policy, deliberate and debate the issues, and ultimately cast votes, we are exercising the most fundamental principles of our democracy. As we experience the historic election year ahead, we as a nation will be deciding on the direction of our democracy. Will we elect leaders who promote big government solutions or officials who believe in personal responsibility and limited government intervention?
Regardless of your personal belief of the role of government, as we gather with friends and family among the barbeques and fireworks to celebrate the birth of our nation on July 4th, take a moment to look upon Old Glory and remember the freedoms that we enjoy in this country every day. These freedoms were not free in 1776, and they are not free today. They are purchased with blood, and washed with tears. The price is sacrifice, hardship, and often the loss of life. Our Founding Fathers have passed the torch to us and let us remember the sacrifices of those who protect our freedom, defend our liberty, and secure our way of life.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.