Paul’s principles

Friday, Feb. 8, 2008

Reagan, who had become good friends with Ron, reciprocated by campaigning for Congressman Paul in his re-election bid in 1978. Dr. Paul, a former Air Force flight surgeon, became one of Reagan’s best allies in Congress for much of his two terms in an attempt to rein in colossal government spending.

Years later, after his retirement, a proposal to award Reagan with the Congressional Gold Medal for service to his country came to a vote on the House floor. Because of their close working relationship, it amazed many observers to see that Ron Paul was one of only a few to vote against awarding the medal.

Asked why, Paul simply stated that the money, which had to be appropriated from taxpayers, was not his to give. Instead, he invited each of his 435 congressional colleagues to match his personal contribution of $100 to pay for the $30,000 gold medal.

Not a single congressman took him up on his offer. It is very easy to be generous with other people’s money.

This is just one small example of the kind of principles that Ron Paul has stood for during his 10 terms in Congress. Millions of disgruntled voters, just like me, have been energized this election season to register and vote for the first time in many years because of the candidacy of Congress’ most honest man.

As a final observation, for those who question Ron Paul’s foreign policy stance, it is worth noting that Ron Paul has received more campaign contributions from members of the U.S. armed forces than all other candidates in both parties combined.

So if you want to support the troops, support Ron Paul, the overwhelming choice of our brave men and women overseas.

Gary Rumsey, Leonardtown