The Washington Post, Dan Egan, Perry Bacon, Jr 12.10, For Conservatives, a poltical surge

Involvement of those Republican conservatives active in tea party meetings, in the political process is a positive development which the party should welcome and embrace. As a party we Republicans have too often witnessed moments of ambiguity when we needed strength and firm resolve to defeat this administration's misguided proposals. In striving for a pseudo bipartisanship, even some of our leaders and candidates have not delivered the strong opposition to liberal ideas and programs being pushed by the administration.

Had it not been for motivated conservative men and women there is little doubt in my mind that we would today be fighting against additional programs in addition to, healthcare reform, cap and trade, EPA shenanigans, czars, climatic lies and fallacies, debt expansion, tax growth, massive job losses, government takeovers of corporations, student loans, banks, etc. It is irrational to hear and witness an American administration apologizing for the U.S. around the globe, taking a less robust approach to national security, wanting to close the prison at guantanamo bay, being less than solid in supporting Israel, expanding support for all liberal issues-this makes the involvement of conservatives most inspiring.

As a potential candidate for higher office, I welcome the determination of conservatives to raise funds and support those of us ready to challenge this liberal agenda and those candidates who support or fail to fight it. The financial support of like minded Americans is absolutely essential. Candidates like Carly Fiorina in California, can make a difference if supported by the conservative base. I personally welcome the support of these active conservative Republicans. I am proud to have them onboard my efforts.

Dr. Alan Phillips
Bloomington, IL