Charting Common Waters: Navigating a Nation’s Division with Unwavering Principles

Last week, we began exploring the true 'common ground' that exists within our nation. That common ground is more prevalent than most people truly realize. In fact, the only individuals content with what is happening in America today are those with blind allegiance to the Democrat Party or those with a desire to dismantle America due to their disdain for her and her foundations.

My friends, within our nation burns much more than mere embers of hope. Quite the opposite, in fact: a fervent blaze of unity ignites as we scrutinize the intense challenges confronting America today.

As discussed last week, the resonating echoes of Oliver Anthony's anthem, "Rich Men North of Richmond," swept across the land, a testament to the smoldering anger and discontent simmering within us.

Today, we embark on a deeper journey into the heart of the matter, unraveling pivotal next steps in our collective quest to discover genuine common ground among us – without compromising principles – to construct a brighter and better America.

However, while it's true that the vast majority of Americans are frustrated and angered by the state of the union today, we must recognize that many remain confused or misinformed regarding both the specific causes and solutions to these problems.

Consider the events of just last week during the first GOP presidential debate. Fox News (the host of the debate) played Oliver Anthony's song, "Rich Men North of Richmond," to candidates, who were then given the chance to respond to the song's sentiments and explain if they are, indeed, part of the solution to the problems presented by Anthony. 

Candidates attempted to capitalize on the resonance that Anthony's song found with Americans, explaining how they stand as at least part of the answer to the sentiments highlighted by the song.

However, the song's creator held a differing view. In a video response to the candidates' answers, Oliver Anthony stated, “It was funny seeing [my song] in the presidential debate, because it’s like, I wrote that song about those people. That song has nothing to do with Joe Biden. You know, it’s a lot bigger than Joe Biden. That song is written about the people on that stage and a lot more, not just them, but definitely them.”

The truth is, Oliver Anthony has numerous reasons to be displeased with establishment Republicans – sentiments I share to a large extent.

Yet, let's consider some of the grievances expressed in his song and pose this question: Which policies contribute to these issues? And once we discern the answer to that question, we must then ask: Who is responsible for creating these policies?

Hard work, low pay

The apparent solution for some is to raise the minimum wage, compelling companies to pay their employees more and provide a 'living wage.'

However, is this really the solution? If so, why do 98.5% of all employees currently earn more than the federal minimum wage? After all, if companies are content to pay their workers only the bare minimum, why would they pay them much more than that?

I wholeheartedly support the idea of people earning higher incomes; that’s undoubtedly a very good thing. However, we shouldn't deceive ourselves into believing that reaching this naturally is the same as achieving it through government fiat. These two approaches are very distinct: one is authentic and real, while the other is a fantasy. And sooner or later, the bill for fantasy comes due.

In the real world, the free market is a much superior avenue for increasing one’s income. In order to do this, a person must identify ways to enhance his value in the marketplace. And once he does that, he should focus on acquiring the skills and experience required to do so. 

While some may scream in opposition to this, the principles of economics are unequivocal: something can't be obtained for nothing.

The value of the dollar

What triggers the decline in the value of a dollar? The answer is simple: inflation.

And what causes inflation? Again, it's simple – in the words of the late, great Milton Friedman: "too much government spending and too much government creation of money – and nothing else."

In everyday terms, inflation has come to mean a mere rise in prices. However, this is not entirely accurate. Inflation occurs when your dollar holds less value due to the excessive creation of money by the government.

Prices can escalate for a variety of reasons, and it's somewhat disingenuous to label all these instances as “inflation.”

High taxes

Though neither Democrats nor Republicans seem overly committed to substantial tax reduction (with some exceptions, of course), comprehending why we're currently taxed at these rates requires that we understand how the federal government spends our tax dollars.

According to the Office of Management & Budget, the most recently reported federal expenses can be categorized as follows:

Major entitlements: 46%
Income security: 18%
National defense: 12%
Net interest: 8%
Everything else: 16%

While budget cuts should be considered across all categories of expenditure, it's evident that America's spending problems extend beyond defense spending. Cutting the defense budget in half (an idea I'm not advocating, by the way!) would still result in deficit spending.

If this assessment is accurate (and rest assured that it is!), then it's apparent that defense spending isn't the main problem area for overall expenses. Instead, the main areas of concern would be major entitlements. So, then: Who bears responsibility for the massive amount of entitlement spending today? 

The government seeks to monitor your opinions and actions

Who advocated for extended lockdowns during Covid, long after we realized they weren't a solution?

Who coerced and pressured individuals to get vaccinated?

Who actively censors debates and speech on social media platforms?

Who strives to regulate what you eat, drive, and wear?

Who endeavors to establish smart cities? Or deploys the FBI to address dissent at school board meetings? Or allows children to change gender without parental consent?

Conclusion

The intent of this column isn't to present an exhaustive list of all the ways that lovers of big government – which includes members of both political parties – have contributed to the issues Oliver Anthony addresses in his popular song.

Rather, its purpose is to convey that these issues have incited significant frustration among many Americans, propelling them to collaborate – even across party lines – in search of solutions. 

I'm writing to articulate this truth in a pragmatic manner, motivating us to take the next steps in this important journey. 

In the weeks ahead, we will further delve into the shared common ground among most Americans today. We will also provide practical insights and advice to help you uncover this shared common ground within your own circle and to persuade more people to find ways to work together, without compromising principle.

This nation is worth fighting for, my friends. I hope you'll continue to join me on this vital journey.

Conservative, not bitter.
Todd