Vision

I am inspired by what our government did when it took the reins and directed such things as : The New Deal, the Manhattan Project, the Marshall Plan, and the Apollo Project.

My question is why can't we get past the idea that either business or labor unions or government is inherently evil? I believe all of the above should be vibrant, and government should be the force that provides the juridical framework for society as a whole, directing the larger vision, guaranteeing that all of our human rights are protected. A wise and prudent political leader will always have the general welfare (see the Preamble to the Constitution)principle in the forefront of his mind. And I would add that no theory of economics or political organization, is more important than the individual human person. No one should be sacrificed at the altar of the market or medical research. I will defend the vulnerable unborn humans, as well the sweat shop laborer, and all those placed outside the loop of concern for so-called respectable society. When we deny the humanity of anyone, we end up losing our own connection to decent humanity.

My vision theme is one that could be subtitled: "The Politics of Fatherhood". My take on the eternal values solidified once I became a father myself. I have come to realize that it is not enough to do all the right things for my daughters inside our safe home. The parenting responsibility does not stop at the door and front yard. What goes on in Tallahassee and Washington DC, affects our children now and for the future. My vision is one motivated by doing right by and for my own children, and as a believer in God,a God who loves everyone's children as much as mine, I need to be working on helping to set up and maintain the best possible systems of governing. One result of my wide-ranging travels is that I have directly observed how people living in very poor nations, work hard, they are the same as us in all the important personal ways. What is different is the larger system which most were born into. The politicians, the business community, they set up or destroy key elements of the common good. America has experienced a severe Depression, and we have had slavery, child labor, 'Grapes of Wrath' injustices. We can never rest on the laurels of past champions of social justice. To be a hero and saint, I believe that all that is necessary is that we, as individuals, step up as compassionate persons and try our utmost to do the right thing, in every situation, and in our contact with our neighbor and the world. This run for Florida State Legislature is for me, just another attempt to do exactly that. I expect to make mistakes, and learn from them. My intent in running for public office is as pure as my intent to be the best father for my own children. I see both roles as connected. My politics is from the heart. Let's continue the discussion- let me hear from you- what are your issues? What do you believe needs to be done or undone to make our state a better place? Thanks, Tim.

Back 03.01.2006.