Rebuilding Pride in America: Why I’m Running for Colorado House of Representatives

A recent NBC News poll reveals a sharp decline in the number of Americans who feel extremely proud to be American. The share dropped from the high 60s and low 70s in the years following 9/11 to just 33% today. Alongside this, negative and ambivalent feelings about the country are growing. This shift reflects deeper issues that affect our national spirit, especially here in Colorado, where Democrats control the state government while Republicans hold sway in Washington, DC.

This divide has left many feeling disconnected from the ideals that once made America a beacon of hope and opportunity. Unlike other countries, America’s pride comes not from grand government programs but from the freedoms we enjoy. These freedoms include the ability to start a business and prosper, the right to live without fear of discrimination based on skin color, religion, or heritage, and the freedom from government interference in personal medical and life decisions.

I am running for the Colorado House of Representatives because I believe in restoring these freedoms and rebuilding the pride that comes from living in a place that respects our right to pursue happiness. I am a Libertarian because I believe government should focus on doing a few things well and do them efficiently, not overreaching into every aspect of our lives.

Colorado State Capitol Building, symbol of state governance

The Decline of American Pride and What It Means for Colorado

The drop in national pride is not just a number; it reflects real frustration and disillusionment. Many Americans feel that government policies have drifted away from protecting individual freedoms and instead focus on expanding control. This shift has created a sense of helplessness and division.

In Colorado, this is especially visible. The state government, controlled by Democrats, sees your income as their boodle, pushing policies that limit personal choice and economic freedom. Meanwhile, the federal government, controlled by Republicans, seeks wars of aggression, vanity construction projects for the President, and intimidation of minorities and immigrants.

This political tug-of-war leaves citizens caught in the middle, unsure who truly represents their interests. The result is a loss of trust and pride in the institutions meant to serve us.

Why Freedom Defines American Pride

America’s pride has always been rooted in freedom. This freedom is not abstract; it is practical and personal:

• Freedom to start and grow a business

Entrepreneurs in Colorado have built thriving companies because they can operate with fewer restrictions and more opportunity. This freedom fuels innovation and creates jobs.

• Freedom from discrimination

Living without fear that your skin color, religion, or family background will make you a target is fundamental. Colorado’s diverse communities deserve respect and equal treatment under the law.

• Freedom from government overreach

People want to make their own medical and personal decisions without government mandates dictating their choices. This respect for individual autonomy is essential for a free society.

When these freedoms are protected, people feel proud to be part of a community and a country that values their rights and dignity.

What Government Should Do

Government’s role should be clear and limited. It should focus on a few key responsibilities and perform them well:

• Protecting individual rights

Ensuring laws protect freedom of speech, religion, and equal treatment.

• Maintaining public safety

Providing effective law enforcement and emergency services.

• Supporting infrastructure

Building and maintaining roads, bridges, and essential services efficiently.

• Ensuring fair and transparent governance

Making government accountable and accessible to citizens.

When government tries to do too much, it often fails to do anything well. Overregulation and excessive programs can stifle freedom and innovation.

Why I Am Running as a Libertarian

I chose the Libertarian path because it aligns with the belief that government should be limited and focused. Libertarian principles emphasize:

• Individual liberty

People should have the freedom to live their lives as they choose, as long as they do not harm others.

• Personal responsibility

Citizens should be empowered to make decisions and accept the consequences.

• Free markets

Economic freedom leads to prosperity and opportunity for all.

• Non-intervention

Government should avoid unnecessary interference in personal and business affairs.

By running for the Colorado House of Representatives, I want to bring these values into state government. I want to help rebuild the trust and pride that come from living in a state that respects freedom and opportunity.

How We Can Rebuild Citizen Pride in Colorado

Rebuilding pride requires action and commitment. Here are some practical steps:

• Promote policies that protect freedom

Support laws that reduce unnecessary regulations and protect individual rights.

• Encourage entrepreneurship

Create an environment where small businesses can thrive without burdensome taxes or red tape.

• Foster community respect and inclusion

Work to ensure all Coloradans feel valued and safe, regardless of background.

• Increase government transparency and efficiency

Make government operations clear and accountable to citizens.

• Engage citizens in decision-making

Encourage public participation and listen to diverse voices.

These steps can restore faith in government and rebuild the pride that comes from living in a free and fair society.

The Hope for Colorado and America

Despite the challenges, I have hope. Colorado has a history of innovation, resilience, and community spirit. By focusing on freedom and responsibility, we can turn the tide and restore pride in our state and country.

This campaign is about more than winning a seat. It is about standing up for the values that make America unique and helping every Coloradan feel proud to call this place home.

If you believe in freedom, opportunity, and responsible government, I invite you to join me in this effort. Together, we can rebuild pride in Colorado and set an example for the nation.

Let’s work to create a government that does a few things well, respects our rights, and supports the pursuit of happiness for all.