We the people...

I've always thought of our Constitution as a quasi holy document--inspired by God and revered by most Americans. The words of the preamble have a very unique effect on most of us. Who doesn't feel proud and slightly emotional upon hearing "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."? While I understand our founding fathers were imperfect men, I maintain that this document--our Constitution--was inspired by God and worthy of our continued study and sustaining efforts.

There have always been fringe groups who disagree with this assertion. Most would agree that these groups never made it into the mainstream of America. A closer analysis would indicate that they didn't want to make it into the mainstream; they want to bring the mainstream to them. Radicals on either side of the fence are probably good for us as they force us to consider our thoughts, learn what we believe, and become more educated in so doing.

I never thought we'd elect a president who didn't share my feelings about The Constitution. Don't get me wrong--I don't hate Barack Obama. In fact, I think he's a lot more likeable than John McCain. He's a nice guy and probably a good husband and father. But, it has become apparent in recent days how he feels about the Constitution.

In a radio interview in 2001 he made some revealing comments. He referred to the Constitution as being "constraining" and made reference to wanting to change it--either through the courts or the legislature. He made comments that the supreme court has never addressed "redistribution of wealth" or "economic justice". He talked about the constitution "constraining" the federal government and restricting what it can do for us. He discussed his hope for change of the constitution in these regards. Here is the interview:



I feel it is clear now. The right-wing radio hosts and talking heads have been saying it for several months, but being the stubborn guy that I am, I haven't completely made up my mind until now. Barack Obama doesn't like America the way it is. He doesn't love the Constitution. I believe him when he says he's grateful for the opportunities this country has given him, but I don't believe he will defend the constitution as that very document indicates he must. How can he take the oath of office and swear to "...preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States" when he doesn't believe in it in the first place? As Americans, we cannot overlook this divine document. It was given to us by God. It formed the basis of the most important, most powerful, and most prosperous country in the world. When the day comes that the Constitution hangs by a thread, we will look back at this election with sadness and regret.