To the editor:

During the recent debate over President Obama’s stimulus plan, Republican members of Congress argued passionately in opposition to the bill. Of course it’s not difficult to oppose a plan that further mortgages the stability of future generations — even in a self-serving city such as Washington.

It is one of the few times in the past few decades that the Republicans have been on the sensible side of an economic debate. It’s also a few decades too late for many who advocate limited government and a true free market. The GOP rediscovering its small government roots seems more than a bit suspicious. History suggests this party would have been supportive of the same type of legislation if it was not a Democratic plan. Defining yourself on an opponent’s action is a clear sign that the Republican Party has no plan.

Both of the major parties are competing to see who can waste the most money and expand the size and scope of government the quickest. It’s time for those who believe in the principles of liberty and freedom to leave this silly game behind. As the great patriot Samuel Adams once said “it does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people’s minds.”

Don’t forget your matches.

Patrick Wilbur,
Lawrence