THE REPUBLICAN OATH

The Republican Oath

 

I Believe… The
proper function of government is to do for the people those things that have to
be done but cannot be done, or cannot be done as well, by individuals, and that
the most effective government is government closest to the people.

I Believe… Good
government is based upon the individual and that each person’s ability, dignity,
freedom, and responsibility must be honored and recognized.

I Believe… The
free enterprise and the encouragement of individual initiative and incentive
have given this nation an economic system second to none.

I Believe… Sound
money management should be our goal.

I Believe… In
equal right, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race,
creed, age, sex or national origin.

I Believe… We
must retain those principles of the past worth retaining, yet always be
receptive to new ideas with an outlook broad enough to accommodate thoughtful
change and varying points of view.

 

 

Basic Republican Principles

From its inception in 1854 and from its earliest stands against the oppressive
institution of slavery, the Republican Party has defined itself as the protector
of individual freedom. Today, 140 years later, we reaffirm our commitment as
Republicans in the cause of freedom and liberty. And we redirect our course back
to the basic tenets of our common Republican philosophy–a philosophy which
includes among its components:

1. 


A Belief in Smaller Government:
To preserve the sanctity of liberty of the individual, it is our belief that
government must necessarily be limited. Otherwise, the paternalism of the few
would restrict the freedom of the many to decide what is best for themselves.

2. 


Support of the Federalist System of Government:
To bring power closer to the people, it is imperative we restrict the growth of
a centralized federal government….States ought to have the power to determine
which programs and measures would be most appropriate and fitting for them.

3. 


Fiscal Conservatism:
In keeping with our desires for the greatest individual liberty, we support
policies of limited taxation and government spending.

4. 


Strong National Defense:
We believe the best way to preserve the peace and protect our national interests
abroad comes through a strong national defense.

5. 


Individual Liberties and Responsibilities:
Along with individual liberties come individual responsibilities and duties.
Government must act to preserve freedom, while individuals must exercise their
responsibilities to preserve order.

6. 


Tolerance, Inclusiveness, and Optimism:
We believe in the right of fellow Republicans to disagree on certain matters of
principle and policy. We believe in being an open and inclusive party respectful
of different points of view. We are indeed a “big-tent” party that offers no
“litmus tests” or barriers to entry.