The Declaration of Independence states: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”  It is our responsibility to secure societal respect for life; it is our responsibility to secure liberty of our citizenry by limiting government; and it is our responsibility to insure government does not infringe on citizens' legal pursuits.

​

Thomas Jefferson said "Most bad government has grown from too much government," and I agree. I believe in small government, necessary government, but not oppressive government. 

​

Benjamin Franklin wrote: "They that give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." I support the 2nd Amendment - the right of our citizenry to "a well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms." It is important our government allows us the freedom to defend ourselves against them. The first action taken by any dictator is to disarm the public. 

​

I support having a smaller government and less infringement on our unalienable rights by the federal and state governments. While progress is necessary, we also need to learn from history so we do not repeat it. Theodore Roosevelt believed a "progressive democracy" was the populace and not a "progressive" government when he stated: "A great democracy has got to be progressive, or it will soon cease to be either great or a democracy..." (Theodore Roosevelt, August 29, 1910). 

​

Finally, I believe in Democracy - "government of the people, by the people, for the people..." (Abraham Lincoln from his Gettysburg Address, November 19, 1863). My responsibility as your District 4 House Representative is to work hard for you, the citizens of District 4, to ensure South Dakotans can freely enjoy Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

​