I would like to see Christopher C. Boardman replace Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-2). Ruppersberger doesn't speak for progressives.

Below is a portion of his bio and a couple of his reponses to questions re the invasion, etc.

Elected offices/civic activities:
Past president, Joppatowne Civic Association, First Democratic Club; president, Joppatowne Community Center Inc.; past secretary, Joppatowne Recreation Council; past chair, South Hanford Community Coalition.

Why should voters elect you?
"I will vote against Iraq war appropriations, unlike the incumbent. We need to turn around U.S. Mideast policy with negotiations and conflict resolution."

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
"The Mideast war and the need for revitalized energy policies deeply affect the residents of the 2nd District. War expenditures of $311 billion average $715 million per congressional district. This money could have been spent for building light-rail commuter systems to lessen energy dependence and traffic congestion. A proactive, peaceful foreign policy that assists with economic development abroad would better enhance our security. We need to open negotiation with old adversaries including Syria, Iran and Cuba. New talks with Mexico should also be scheduled to address a number of outstanding issues."

Congressman Ron Paul endorses Richard Matthews, Congressional candidate for the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland.

Moderator's Note: Republican propaganda removed.

To all Democrats who shrink from discussing the IRS in this light, I have an observation and a question:

- The essential counter argument from some Democrats is "Sure Democrats should help folks, but let's not be too blatant about it".

- My question is, if all Democrats are doing is "helping" someone via these "programs," then how exactly do you counter what Libertarians bring up? Namely, that "taking the shirt off another man's back, to clothe the shirtless, is wrong".

The Libertarian argument is valid and needs to be addressed.

My claim is simply that Democrats are NOT doing that.

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One caveat:

Each political group entertains irrational positions which are our birthrights.

For Liberals it is a need to help others, and this is sometimes pressed in the political arena. It exists outside the framework above.

Now when Right Wingers stop advancing their New and Improved Version of Christianity. When Libertarians stop advancing their dogma of competition always leading to greater economic activity than cooperation. Well THEN I will come down harder on Liberals for throwing in their 2 cents of Religion. Rest assured however, it is only 2 cents.

The majority of Democratic victories for securing Liberal Incomes for the vast majority is NOT a matter of robbing Peter to pay Paul.