Tea Party Update. . .

Yesterday, once again, the American people took to the streets in peaceful protest to take a stand against the abuses of our current government. Nothing makes me prouder of my country than seeing decent, average people standing up to a corrupt and tyrannical government. Indeed, yesterday was a great day for the Tea Party, and the country all around.

Not only did thousands of people gather to protest all over the country (here are some examples: Denver (2,000), Colorado Springs (2,000), Hartford (1,200), Boise Idaho (1,000), Oklahoma City (1,000), Tucson (2,000) and Washington, D.C. (“thousands”)), but they also finally released their Contract From America. This is a great document that was compiled by the votes of millions of Americans, and it outlines what the public wants Washington to do.

Said House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio), this document “captures the American people’s frustration with a government that has grown too big, too costly, and too arrogant.” Mike Pence (R-Indiana) said it’s a “good start toward the essential goals of individual liberty, limited government, and economic freedom. I hope that many conservative leaders will join with this bold initiative that’s marked by powerful ideas to get our government’s fiscal house in order.” Good words gentlemen.

Meanwhile, the media was still worried about the false racism allegations from way back when. Sure, whatever, like anyone's listening. In fact, let's ignore the media entirely because we have something better than an AP report -- we have actual witnesses to the Tea Party events of yesterday who have given us their reports.

First, we have Tam from Tucson:

I just got back from the Tea Party in Tucson. I had to leave early because I had to get my kid from school, but there were about 2,000 people there. All happy, positive, energetic, fired up patriots. There were even some *gasp* people of color...it wasn't all old, wealthy, white men. I wandered all around, talking to the people in the crowds. There was no sign of infiltrators while I was there, no angry mob, just very passionate people ready to reclaim our freedom. The thing I liked best about the people and the message was that it wasn't just about "Nobama" or repealing the health care, or stopping the takeover...it was all about what we want to DO to move forward! So much for the party of no! It was fantastic...everybody was discussing action, organizing meetings at schools, city councils, churches...supporting actions that will take back the incremental freedoms and choices we have lost over the last several years of complacency. I am attaching some pictures just in case you are interested in the experience in this neck of the nation.

Secondly, we have a report from my sister from Colorado Springs:

We hit the local gathering in Colorado Springs. We had beautiful weather and a great crowd. A local radio host, Richard Randall, did the emcee-ing and we were treated to a series of conservative, freedom-loving speakers, as well as candidates for the upcoming elections. Swamped in handouts, we can now turn to the internet to examine all the candidates more closely and make an informed decision. We did make sure to sign a petition to get a measure on the ballot that will preserve Coloradoans' rights not to be forced to buy healthcare and to be allowed to pay cash for medical treatment if we choose. There were a few protesters to the protest, but they were easily discouraged and gave up quickly when the 2,000-strong gathering chanted "USA" right over them. All in all, another great day, and another step closer to November. Thank goodness!

Now you know more about yesterday’s protests than you would have learned from watching CNN all day long.

Thanks for the reports. And thanks to everyone who went. Thanks for representing us all. Thanks for keeping the pressure on those jerks in Washington. And thanks for keeping the momentum going. . . right into November!