We must keep America strong.

To enjoy the blessings of liberty, it is imperative that we continue to do the things necessary to have a stronger America. That strength comes not just from a strong national defense, but a well-directed foreign policy, a well-informed electorate, a vibrant economy, and an effective government.
A foreign policy that builds relationships with global partners allows us to pursue our national interests without the use of force.

A well-informed electorate contributes to better decision making in all aspects of government.
A vibrant economy gives consumers a strong sense of economic security and economic security provides opportunities to grow and thrive. An effective government, then properly balances competing interests for the public good.

The Role of Government
While the government's role is not limitless, sometimes public action for the public good is required. In 1937, this country was digging out of the Depression with government stimulus. In that year, the country's recovery stopped when the government changed course in an effort to immediately balance the budget. Ultimately WWII pulled the country out of the economic nosedive.

That lesson serves as a reminder given that the private sector is not currently investing for job growth. We are coming out of the worst economic climate since the Great Depression. The government has stimulated the economy and the economy is only sluggishly responding. If the government steps back, will the private sector step up? So far the answer has been no. Without the participation of the private sector, the only job growth will come from the efforts of government stimulation.

Once the economy picks up, the government can shift its focus back to balancing the budget. Balancing the budget will ultimately lead to lower interest rates, higher stock prices, higher bond prices, and a better business environment. With a better fiscal situation, the ability to more rapidly draw down the debt arises because of lower rates. With the proper focus, at the proper time, the budget can be balanced without sacrificing the commitments America has made.

Fundamental Rights
At various times in the history of our land, various people have been dislocated, denied opportunity, denied access to the courts, or denied their civil liberties. Government should never be wielded as the weapon to deny anyone their fundamental rights and fundamental liberties. Special interests should never be allowed to define what our great country stands for.

National Defense
National defense takes many shapes. A strong military is necessary to defend our interests against those who would do us harm. Our ability to project force in other parts of the world in order to defend our shores is a part of our greatness. America must continue to provide the talent and the resources to support a strong military. America must continue to produce well educated, physically fit men and women for military service. Our economy must be robust enough to absorb our soldiers when they come home. Our government must not shirk its commitment to support our troops. 

Social Security
To be a stronger America, our country must honor its commitments. Social Security was a promise to provide for the elderly, the widows, widowers, and the disabled. Money has long been set aside to provide for their needs and money has long been borrowed from Social Security to pay for other expenses. Despite the economic challenges we face, our commitment to Social Security must be honored.

Veterans
We must do more than pay lip service to the needs of our veterans. For their service and sacrifice to protect our freedoms and way of life, we owe more than a debt of gratitude to our veterans. Whether healthcare, services, or the opportunity so many of us enjoy, we must continue to provide opportunity and security for the people who have honored this country with their service.