America's promise of freedom, hope, and opportunity illuminates and excites hearts throughout the world. Our forefathers gave us freedom, hope, and opportunity. How effectively we shoulder our responsibility to maintain those gifts determines whether our children and grandchildren will enjoy the same benefits of freedom. A natural danger of inherited freedom is that often we do not maintain it well enough to keep freedom's hope and opportunity alive. Individual liberties and rights are inherently connected with the responsibilities which sustain them. As Americans - both in and out of government - we must know our rights. More importantly, we must fulfill our responsibilities to preserve those rights.

When our country is in crisis, it is vital that the men and women in government are honest. Over the years this nation has faced many challenges and tribulations. When Americans are told the truth, they roll up their sleeves to support their friends, their neighbors, and their country. Elected officials simply need to tell the truth and ask the voters for help.

We are responsible for the protection of our families. When families fall apart or do not function as they should, taxpayers have to fund increased social programs and entitlements. Mothers and fathers fulfill their duty to America and to freedom by protecting and preserving families and by raising children who understand their civic responsibilities.

It is time to spend less than we earn. Spending too much afflicts both government and individuals alike. In fact, the overspending of Congress reflects the spending practices of many Americans. Spending less than we earn in private and public life is our patriotic duty.

The United States was not created as a religious state; it was created as a believing nation. Most Americans believe in God-they did at the founding of our nation, and we do today. The majority's tolerance to the viewpoint of a few has changed. Instead of tolerating their opinion we are subjected to it, and that is not freedom! Americans have a patriotic duty to maintain a public belief in and acceptance of God. If we do not, future generations will never understand the critical role our Creator has played throughout the history of this great nation.

I have hope that we can protect America by returning to our core values. I'm running for United States Congress to do that - and I need your help!

David Leavitt