Dear Editor,

This summer David Kolbe wrote a letter on July 15 where he used the phrase “common good” six times and “democracy” three times.

He wrote, “… the general trajectory must be toward democracy, that is, crafting legislation which aims toward the common good.” He then wrote, “Democracy is in jeopardy … I hope you will join me and cast your vote in favor of democracy.”

I found his choice of words interesting, and disturbing. I don’t believe our Founding Fathers risked their lives for a democracy.

When ask what type of government was created, Benjamin Franklin said, “A Republic, if you can keep it.”

The Pledge of Allegiance reads, “I pledge allegiance to my Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands …”

Why do we not pledge allegiance to a democracy?

I’m confident Kolbe knows the difference between a democracy and a republic. The Center for Constitutional Government makes this distinction: “A Republic is representative government ruled by law (the Constitution). A democracy is direct government ruled by the majority (mob rule). A Republic recognizes the inalienable rights of Individuals while democracies are only concerned with group wants or needs (the public good).”

In my conversations with Curt Nisly, I’ve been impressed with his knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and his free market values. Nisly is committed to upholding the U.S. Constitution and Indiana Constitution.

He understands and values our Republic. Rather than be swayed by a subjective judgment as to what is the “common good,” Nisly’s passion is to follow the Constitution, reduce the size of government, give people more liberty and freedom, and look first to free market ideas rather than government solutions.

In District 22, we have an opportunity to vote for a candidate who wants to give us more liberty by reducing the size of government. On Tuesday, I’m encouraging my friends to choose wisely and vote Nisly. Let’s keep our Republic.

Brad Skiles
Warsaw