Sometimes it really seems like Ron Paul is the only politician who both gives a shit about the people and is smart and knowledgeable enough to know the proper decisions/votes to make. For some reason a lot of people just don't care to listen to the man, but he makes a lot of fucking sense pretty much any time he opens his mouth. It's beyond weird that he's a republican congressman from the same state that produced Dubya.
Below was a response from Ron Paul recently after the Haiti earthquake to a resolution for long term US military rebuilding efforts in Haiti...in other words, indefinite military occupation of Haiti. I found it to be interesting and makes me wonder about the fact that it's not-so-subtly been made "hip" to give to Haiti with it being splashed about EVERYWHERE when the cyclone in Myanmar and the tsunami in Asia in 2004 had much much less disaster relief focus on them after similarly devastating events.
http://www.campaignforliberty.com/article.php?view=547
Quote:
I rise in reluctant opposition to this resolution. Certainly I am moved by the horrific destruction in Haiti and would without hesitation express condolences to those who have suffered and continue to suffer. As a medical doctor, I have through my career worked to alleviate the pain and suffering of others. Unfortunately, however, this resolution does not simply express our condolences, but rather it commits the US government "to begin the reconstruction of Haiti" and affirms that "the recovery and long-term needs of Haiti will require a sustained commitment by the United States. . . ." I do not believe that a resolution expressing our deep regret and sorrow over this tragedy should be used to commit the United States to a "long-term" occupation of Haiti during which time the US government will provide for the reconstruction of that country.
I am concerned over the possibility of an open-ended US military occupation of Haiti and this legislation does nothing to alleviate my concerns. On the contrary, when this resolution refers to the need for a long term US plan for Haiti, I see a return to the failed attempts by the Clinton and Bush Administrations to establish Haiti as an American protectorate. Already we are seeing many argue that this kind of humanitarian mission is a perfect fit for the US military. I do not agree.
Certainly I would support and encourage the efforts of the American people to help the people of Haiti at this tragic time. I believe that the American people are very generous on their own and fear that a US government commitment to reconstruct Haiti may actually discourage private contributions. Mr. Speaker, already we see private US citizens and corporations raising millions of dollars for relief and reconstruction of Haiti. I do not believe the US government should get in the way of these laudable efforts. I do express my condolences but I unfortunately must urge my colleagues to vote against this resolution committing the United States government to rebuild Haiti.
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