FIRST PERSON | BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — When I graduated from college, I had the privilege to take the helm of a sign and industrial engraving business in southeast Michigan. Up until the economic crash in 2008, I was aloof about politics, the Federal Reserve and the general direction of the United States. Because I was young and experiencing the windfall of easy money, I never thought the bottom would fall out — until it did.
I remember the weeks following the crash. The phones were not ringing, purchase orders were on hold and our customers were hesitant and full of trepidation. Our business was down at least 50 percent following the crash. Business was hurting so much that we had to lay off two great employees. Many thought we were going to see the second Great Depression, and I was uneasy about the future. When there was talk of bailing out General Motors and Chrysler, I had a vested interest in the result because our business relied so heavily on the automotive industry, and it’s very important to Michigan voters.
However, when the Troubled Asset Relief Program passed and, subsequently, the automotive bailouts arrived, I knew something was fundamentally wrong with our country. I knew my business would be affected, but I did not support these initiatives because I do not like our government picking winners and losers. To me, I witnessed the largest scam ever pulled in human history.
This is what led me to Ron Paul, as the bailouts led me to question the fundamental role of government. As an autodidact, I was inspired to learn as much as possible about him and his perspectives on government. I came across Rep. Paul’s book, “The Revolution: A Manifesto,” in which the Texas representative defends free markets, sound money, limited government and supporting the Constitution. Everything in this book resonated with me because it directly addresses the political and economic problems that we face. It was like a light went on: These truths were in plain sight but hidden from me. After reading this book, I was fundamentally opposed to the bailouts despite our business’ dependency on them.
That brings me to Tuesday’s primary. I am an active participant in Michigan’s politics after being inspired by Paul. His economic stances are in line with the founding fathers, and they are fundamentally what America needs to get back to what made America great.
No other candidate addresses the fundamental core issues and challenges. The other Republican candidates are just supporting the status quo. If my business were to go bankrupt by the free market, then so be it. I would rather America get back on track than making millions by government intervention.
How many people have changed their views so much after meeting Newt Gingrich, Rick Santorum, or Mitt Romney?