Posted by Matt Hawes on 02/07/09 12:38 PM Last updated 02/07/09 12:37 PM   [Newer: Ron Paul on the Senate "Stimulus" Package] [Older: Re: Mass Action Day]

WorldNetDaily reports on efforts by state legislators across the country to reclaim the rights recognized in the ninth and tenth amendments to the Constitution:

So far, eight states have introduced resolutions declaring state sovereignty under the Ninth and Tenth Amendment to the Constitution, including Arizona, Hawaii, Montana, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oklahoma and Washington....

"What we are trying to do is to get the U.S. Congress out of the state's business," Oklahoma Republican state Sen. Randy Brogdon told WND....

The various sovereignty measures moving through state legislatures are designed to reassert state authority through a rollback of federal authority under the powers enumerated in the Constitution, with the states assuming the governance of the non-enumerated powers, as required by the Tenth Amendment....

Read the rest.

Posted 02/07/09 1:27 PM patriotfilms North Bergen, NJ

"Particularly disturbing to many state legislators are the increasing number of "unfunded mandates" that have proliferated in social welfare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, in which bills passed by Congress dictate policy to the states without providing funding." So as long the programs are "unfunded" by the Fed the States will cry State sovereignty, but once the States receive funding they will tuck tail and beg for more money. Give me a break!

Posted 02/07/09 2:11 PM phattonez Los Angeles, CA

Great news. I don't know the specifics, but I like what I hear.

Posted 02/07/09 2:53 PM elkingrey Bowman, CA

Hey Matt, why don't you put up some pictures for your profile instead of just that crummy standard one everybody gets.

Posted 02/07/09 3:30 PM jrichma Fall River, MA

Great news

Posted 02/07/09 3:41 PM StatusQuoJoe Phoenix, AZ

Maybe this should have happened back in 1913.

Posted 02/07/09 3:53 PM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

Check out the article's link to Arizona's HCR 2024. So far, my favorite. Short yet powerful. I'm truly touched. New Hampshire's HCR 0006 is also wonderful. True patriotism in the works. I hope Texas passes something similar.

Posted 02/07/09 3:59 PM StatusQuoJoe Phoenix, AZ

I wrote my district representative AuthenticAuthor but I haven't heard a peep back from him. I hope they are for real about this and not playing politics for funding or some such nonsense.

Posted 02/07/09 4:06 PM omegis13 Norman, OK

I've been a part of this movement here in Oklahoma, and the thought just occurred to me where, if the states really do start exerting their rights, we are going to run into some snags. The Commerce Clause The understanding of this clause has been so manipulated by the courts and in Congress since the 1930's, that it is now "understood" by congress and the courts that producing a product within your state that does not leave your state with materials sourced from your state effects interstate commerce because you have contributed to the nation's total production of that product. As many of us know, Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce had been used to control the production and sales of everything from children's toys to firearms, and from drugs to milk. If the states are going to be serious about this, we need a firm message regarding the Commerce Clause to be delivered.

Posted 02/07/09 4:12 PM smashysmashy dover, NH

This is great news for us here in the granite state! I've been quite pissed lately because we might enact a seat belt law, which is pretty contradictory with our whole live free or die motto in the most literal sense.

Posted 02/07/09 4:40 PM BruceKoerber Cedar Rapids, IA

Secession is the real world flash point that will protect the Constitution just like the Constitution protects States rights! We are living in exciting times! The champions of the Constitution are gaining confidence and strength and courage!

Posted 02/07/09 4:52 PM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

BruceKoerber: I'm doubtful that any secessions will occur, at least within my lifetime, although Hawaii's Constitutional Convention seems to be leaning in that direction. Still, it's exciting on it's own that states are reaffirming the Constitution, and the People. Is a secession necessary at this point? I'm not so sure. I think it's enough at this point for the States to declare civil disobedience to the Fed's unconstitutional orders, for that in its own declares their sovereignty. But if the Fed after that does anything stupid, say a Sherman March, then secessions are going to be the TIP OF THE ICEBERG.

Posted 02/07/09 6:01 PM BruceKoerber Cedar Rapids, IA

AuthenticAuthor, I was talking about secession as a flash point, as the brilliant and hot light that backs the unConstitutional coup away and sends it scurrying. Then as the unConstitutional coup finds on its heels the people from all around the world who have been the victims of their economic terrorism they will be forced to disband; but what about their fate? Forgive my insensitivity, but who cares! They will be gone and at the same time the States will have their dignity back and they will really like it. With our help people will be sufficiently educated about classical liberalism to shun the ego-driven interventionists and the ego-driven interpreters and then civilization will advance in these States, and then beyond.

Posted 02/07/09 6:22 PM Daniel Gerke clinton, MO

It is kind of hokie but as I was reading the comments this was paying in the background, I found it humorous just listening to the words and reading about secession. It could be the states sovereignty theme song. HA HA http://www.cmt.com/videos/little-big-town/105373/good-as-gone.jhtml But in seriousness, this is exciting since this issue has been one of my keys to the salvation of the nation since before joining C4L.

Posted 02/07/09 6:30 PM thegavino Fleetwood, PA

For those who's States are not on this list (such as myself) need to push there governments to do the same.

Posted 02/07/09 6:42 PM Mike in Virginia Fredericksburg, VA

I think the liberty movement will need to move to the states. The central government is out of control and direct pressure from us on Congress is meaningless. Remember the "stimulus" package in October? The people were overwhelmingly against it, but it passed anyway. And did any members of Congress lose for re-election the following month because they voted for it? No. The system at the central government level is fixed, and we as individuals can do nothing about it. We need to focus on getting our states to resist further tyranny. I don't see secession in the near future, but if enough states tell the central government to shove it, there is hope. That is where we as individuals can make a real impact.

Posted 02/07/09 6:51 PM Deb Wells Kansas City, MO

We had 8 Missouri patriots at the committee hearing who testified to the importance of this. There will be another hearing on Tuesday where our patriots will be in attendance. They're listening! Why? Because they can see our faces -- WE ARE NOT GOING AWAY.

Posted 02/07/09 7:42 PM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

BruceKoeber: Please excuse my mistake then. The term "flashpoint" is new to me. Aside from that, I completely agree with you. Mike in Virginia: Absolutely right! How many times have I felt that my sending messages and calls to my reps in Washington will work? Countless times. I still do send such messages, but it feels like grasping in the wind. You hit the nail right on the head; this movement of ours MUST get as local as possible. I'm going to have to get more involved in local politics to foster such ideals. Just imagine the possibilities of this. Instead of this murky cloud of allegiance to the Fed hanging over every state, there will be mutual respect between them. States would be greatly encouraged to collaborate with each other for their own good, instead of giving up their powers to a foreign yet central government. People would not only feel freer to vote with ballots and wallets, but also to vote with their luggage.

Posted 02/07/09 7:42 PM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

Correction: How many times have I felt that my...messages...will NOT work? Countless times!

Posted 02/07/09 7:46 PM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

By the way, I've lived in Oahu, Hawaii for several years before, so I'm very familiar with the sad history of its annexation/colonization to U.S. interests. I'm very happy that there's an initiative like this being taken from its natives/citizens. They hold a special place in my heart.

Posted 02/07/09 8:04 PM Tiredofthelies Bloomington, IL

It is about time that someone has finally stood up against this immense centalization of power but we all know it will not pass if the federal government has anything to do with it. They hide behind the fact they call call the constition a living document and interpret it in different ways and will use the crisis to only gain more and more power. Just look at what happened with 9/11 they knew what was going to happen and let it happen because they saw on opportunity to gain even more power. This endless abominations of states and civil rights is never going to end. Better get out of the country now while you still can we have no more say in anything any more.

Posted 02/07/09 8:28 PM Mike in Virginia Fredericksburg, VA

Thank you, AuthenticAuthor. The people in Washington will do what they want, and when we write to them they send us form letters that don't even begin to respond to what we said. And I sincerely hope that Hawaii will somehow manage to regain its independence and autonomy. Of course, I hope even more that Virginia can do the same. ;-) Tiredofthelies, I have been considering leaving the country, but family ties have kept me from taking action. If I leave, it will be for good, and that means not seeing my children any more. I'm not ready for that, so for now I will fight it out here. Isn't it horrible that "our" government forces us into such a choice? This really was once a free country, but it is now on the precipice of totalitarianism.

Posted 02/07/09 8:54 PM TrevBenson Surry, VA

The definition of a State is a Nation! I hope Virginia is involved in some form of a sovereignty measure. It's been just a branch of the federal Government since 1865.

Posted 02/07/09 9:27 PM Matt Hawes Springfield, VA

Elkingrey, I'm very good at ducking cameras when it comes time to take a picture!! Haha. I probably should add one, though. The standard stuff does get a little old. Matt

Posted 02/08/09 04:46 AM katwoman Mendon, VT

I bet you dollars to donuts the Massholes won't go for it. The communist bums that run the state just looooove big government!! IMHO it will take another actual physical revolution to put the liberal Massholes in their rightful place. I wonder how mumbling idiot Barney Frank will look in a tar and feather suit?

Posted 02/08/09 04:53 AM Parke Ocean Springs, MS

Please pardon my french... But its about fucking time. Maybe a few folks at the local level are realizing the deep do do we are in. Maybe.

Posted 02/08/09 05:20 AM Fu Manchu Belleville, MI

I can't tell you how surprised I am that Michigan is one of the states! I hope they see this thing through, all of them, not just Michigan.

Posted 02/08/09 05:40 AM cjtmw Omaha, NE

Is anyone else a little upset that their state isn't on that list? I'm very annoyed that Nebraska isn't. But, it's a great start. Here's to 50 states!

Posted 02/08/09 05:57 AM ConservativeSouthern Nokesville, VA

Great news! I only hope Virginia chooses to secede as well. we did it before (twice once in 1776 and in 1861) and we can do it again. I'm suprised at some of the states that are considering secession! I mean California, Michigan, New hampshire! all these states have consistently voted for a more poerwful Federal government. Well it just goes to show that freedom knows no bounds. It would be nice to get all the old Southern states to secede as well, they tend to understand the principles of small government pretty well.

Posted 02/08/09 06:03 AM katwoman Mendon, VT

Given that DemoRats are inherently unprepared dreamers and cowards who require a nanny state for their survival and that their party leaders are in complete psychological melt down means that they at least know just how bad this is going to get and that they a freakin' scared to death. Many of the liberals I know are completely unwilling to even talk about the subject. And when they do all they keep saying is Bush caused this and greed caused that. They are completely incapable of having conversation about preparedness should government fail. With Hank Paulson talking about using the military to quell civil unrest back in December and the WTO chief going on record expecting civil unrest yesterday plus state leaders seeking sovereignty you do not need a tin foil hat to recognize that this is about to get really bad really fast and that once it does the recovery will take a long long time and that the process will very uncomfortable for many people.

Posted 02/08/09 06:31 AM charleydan Littleton, CO

I will be writing and visiting to try and get Colorado on board to state sovereignty.

Posted 02/08/09 06:32 AM BillNM Carlsbad, NM

They have managed to homogenize us enough to make secession a logistical nightmare. Every State has military bases and other federal properties and tons of people on federal welfare of some description. Then, who winds up controlling all of the assets, especially the military and the nuclear weapons? I think change will have to come incrementally through the efforts of C4L and others and probably only when things get bad enough that the majority of the people are ready to effect that change. In my view, the best way to begin to shackle the central government is to eliminate the Federal Reserve Note. If they can't print it they will have to collect it. Novel idea.

Posted 02/08/09 06:42 AM MaurDL Logan, UT

I'm not sure why so many people are jumping to the thought of secession. As far as I can tell all that is being suggested is that states be granted the rights properly due to them?...

Posted 02/08/09 08:02 AM celluloidhope Garden Grove, CA

Whoa, guys. Relax. The article is NOT talking about secession - the states are merely being assertive regarding their Constitutional rights. Let's not pretend that secession is something to be taken lightly or even a 'good thing' - we all know what happened the last time secession was tried. It wasn't good for either side.

Posted 02/08/09 08:11 AM Donnie Mayes Alexandria, KY

I sent 5 e-mails this morning to my elected officials asking them to review, comment and take action regarding the State Sovereignty issue. I think the government has overstepped it's authority for decades and it's time to return the power back to each sovereign state.

Posted 02/08/09 09:09 AM Peale09 Valparaiso, IN

Fu, I'm not too surprised about Michigan. The variety of states echoes the Ron Paul philosophy that freedom is universal, and tends to be a unifying factor. Dr. Paul had a variety of supporters from different backgrounds for this reason. Each state has its own specific gripes with Washington, but they can all be classified under "loss of freedom." That's why this is so encouraging.

Posted 02/08/09 09:20 AM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

Katwoman: That's right; the military looks to be in position for siege-like operations. But even this won't last, I think, when service-members have to put up with a crashing dollar like the rest of us. Sure, they may confiscate items of value from the population, but this would be tantamount to killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. Barbarian hoards, from what I remember, don't really last long for this reason. Just like BillNM said, it'll be enough if the States just put their foot down on Federal Reserve notes, the black lifeblood of the General Government. When that happens, you can bet your pants that Federal employees alike will start switching sides.

Posted 02/08/09 09:53 AM katwoman Mendon, VT

Authentic Author I agree and have even been pondering the idea the the recent uptick in suicides among military personnel could be related to them be confronted with the possibility of having to act against us during a period of civil unrest. At the end of the day we need to stop feeding the beast. That said, given that all economies are essentially local, the sooner people stop using FRNs for their transactions the better off we will all be.

Posted 02/08/09 11:13 AM ConservativeSouthern Nokesville, VA

MaurDL Secession is what they are talking about. This is shown by the fact that they want state sovereignty, the same terminoligy used in the South during the 1860's. State sovereignty can still (and does) exist under our constitution,but the federal government has betrayed our constitution and the only way state sovereignty can survive is through secession. Granted I believe some of these states are not planning on going that far yet--although others sound like they are--they will soon discover that secession is a necessity now; just as the South found secession necessary to stop Lincoln's power centralization movement. I just hope that our leaders here in Virginia will take our motto "Thus always to tyrants" seriously and secede as well. Long live Liberty.

Posted 02/08/09 12:01 PM chicafoom Sahuarita, AZ

As was stated at the beginning of the comments, a lot of this has to do with federal funding. These states need to be ready to reject all federal funding and still keep their state's ship from sinking. Considering the economic mess most states are in, including many on this list, I doubt many states are in a position to do this. I hope they have the guts to do it, but it won't be pretty if they do. They'd have to cut a lot of programs really fast (not that I am opposed to that, but I am sure many will put up a fight). I wrote to my reps and thanked them for supporting the Arizona state resolution, but said the only way this would work is if the federal government has no leverage against them in the form of withholding federal funds. I asked the representatives to work towards a budget that could be handled within the state income where they can tell the government to shove it, even if the feds tempt them with some printed funny money.

Posted 02/08/09 1:17 PM retornado30 Roosevelt, UT

I wonder if I can reclaim my sovereignty and/or constitutional rights as an individual? It's harder to crack down on one person if there are millions in revolution.

Posted 02/08/09 2:23 PM sunshine Washington, NH

Actually, what I see in this is... A United States of America. The States are uniting to take back the rights that were stolen by the federal government. Ironic, isn't it? Perhaps if all 50 states were to unite in this, by definition we wouldn't need to seceed...we could fire the tyrants. The military does present a logistical roadblock, but as stated previously there are plenty of soldiers who believe in liberty.

Posted 02/08/09 3:00 PM ConservativeSouthern Nokesville, VA

In the later comments on this blog I keep hearing people desparing that the states won't follow through with this, or at least wont dare secede. However, we need to remember that freedom knows no bounds. If a state is willing to face the might and fury of the United States government in the name of liberty then I say rally behind them, encourage our own homes, our own beloved states, to do the same. don't give up on these people who are trying, the same day you hear about their movements. If men from Main to Alabama were willing to face England, although people said it was impossible then we, who claim to lead this Liberty revolution, should be willing to face the United States no-matter how impossible it seems. If the Southern states could secede in 1860, and new England nearly do so in 1812 then why shouldn't these states do it now? If thats what it will take to preserve our rights then don't back down and watch to see if these states can succede! we the people are fuel with which this liberty movemnet is able to run. If we stand on the sid-lines to see if these states succede nothing will come of it; but if we stand with them and encourage our own mother states to do the same we will triumph over the power hungery politicians in D.C.

Posted 02/08/09 4:33 PM celluloidhope Garden Grove, CA

ConservativeSouthern, I understand your viewpoint and agree philosophically, but I don't think we should be engaged in a physical war, but a war of ideas. The mess we're in can still be dealt with without resort to the ultimate extreme of secession, which would inevitably lead to war. If we continue talking in this manner, we will be marginalized and the message of liberty will be ignored by people unable to see beyond the radicalness of the idea of secession.

Posted 02/08/09 5:19 PM Mike in Virginia Fredericksburg, VA

charleydan, Colorado started this whole thing with a 10th Amendment resolution back in 1994. The resolutions being considered now are based on that one, containing very much the same language.

Posted 02/08/09 6:51 PM Warrick Sullivans Island, SC

I have been watching this conversation very closely and appreciate everyone's perspective. I am a first family of Virginia, my family has served in every major confict and I am Veteran myself. Of course we fought for our Country, Virginia, with the Confederate Army, Calvary and Navy. I have been taught since I was very young the importance of being a Virginian. My family has never forgotten the injustices of the War Between the States; the tyranny before and after. I have spent an entire lifetime watching my culture being ridiculed and discriminated against. My family fought in that war and we know what happened, but I have had to read accounts of history that are completely untrue. Watching these myths and lies perpetuated in popular culture. The South is truly the last place (or demographic) that it is Ok to generalize and stereotype. We have no voice in this country and we are treated like second rate citizen. Second rate in a country that we where forced to stay in; what the hell is that? I am full grown man, I have seen war and death. I am not full of ideas and lofty sentiment. And I am so angry; it frightens me. I am beyond ideas; beyond reason and fully prepared for war. And I am not the only one and most of us are officers. And is it not marginalized, but very very real. What you need to understand is that when you (the people talking here) turn lose people like me; there will be no stopping it. It is a hundred years of hate and it will be very real. I know that militarily it could be done. Just trust me; I know. Who do you think runs the military? Yankees? People from California? Why do you think they call the Marine Corps the last Southern Army? Secession is a very serious thing indeed. There are many in the military that have already been talking about it. But it is grown up stuff with certain conflict on a continental level, as well as, international because there are Nuclear Weapons located in our States. It will quickly change from a fight over rights to a fight for our very existance. The same as in the past. I only say this because I see that many people are very excited about this, but I am not sure if they understand what war really is. If we can work this thing out; it would be better. Even though I hate Yankees with all my heart and soul.

Posted 02/08/09 7:06 PM sunshine Washington, NH

These are some really good comments. As I read the legislation in the NH pipeline, I realized that we could come to secession, too. At first I was wigged out about it but then I realized that the constant forfeiture of rights is no way to live. I drive a car with a license plate that says, "Live free or die" on it. My constitution says, "The doctrine of nonresistance against arbitrary power, and oppression, is absurd, slavish, and destructive of the good and happiness of mankind." My forefathers died for me and it could be my turn. Warrick, I agree with you. This could turn out very badly. But nonresistance is probably worse.

Posted 02/08/09 7:25 PM sunshine Washington, NH

These are some really good comments. As I read the legislation in the NH pipeline, I realized that we could come to secession, too. At first I was wigged out about it but then I realized that the constant forfeiture of rights is no way to live. I drive a car with a license plate that says, "Live free or die" on it. My constitution says, "The doctrine of nonresistance against arbitrary power, and oppression, is absurd, slavish, and destructive of the good and happiness of mankind." My forefathers died for me and it could be my turn. Warrick, I agree with you. This could turn out very badly. But nonresistance is probably worse.

Posted 02/08/09 7:26 PM sunshine Washington, NH

Sorry for the double post. Seems everything I do is double posting even though I hit submit only once...

Posted 02/08/09 8:36 PM odendin New Albany, IN

I might have to move, I'm surrounded by Bush lackies. Bush's bro, Crist, the state legislatures... sob.

Posted 02/08/09 9:09 PM roserty Orem, UT

Anybody know how we can get more information on this? This article is great news, but it doesn't tell me if my state has made a similar move. Are these states working together or seperately? I'd love more information.

Posted 02/08/09 9:36 PM Andrew76 Ballwin, MO

"Even though I hate Yankees with all my heart and soul." Yes, yes because we're all the same. Truly enlightening. No offense, but you're not doing a very good job of denying the stereotypes of southerners. And nice one getting on here, spewing on about military action and war. Tip: tone it down. This is not a militia page, it's Ron Paul's Campaign for Liberty. The above article was about states perhaps reclaiming their constitutionally guaranteed areas of legal sovereignty from the federal government. It was not about secession or future civil war. That your family is "first Virginia" and has a long military history is of course admirable, but does not make you an authority on the subject of state sovereignty nor does it make you any more American than anyone else born here. There are millions of families who've made sacrifices anywhere you look, Yankee or otherwise. My point is, let's not keep a dead war alive. It's over. You did not fight in it, and neither did I, hell neither did our grandparents. Now, let's you and I and everyone else here work together peacefully and constructively towards some positive goals. For my own part, I'll be contacting my Missouri representatives and letting them know I support our reclaiming, peacefully, whatever degree of sovereignty we can muster from this flailing, failing and thieving federal government.

Posted 02/08/09 10:27 PM Felegund Jonesville, KY

@andrew- First lesson of delaing with Southerners (I'm half of one, so I have some sense of this). Yankees are hated. 'Yankees' is not defined by state of residence in relation to the Mason-Dixon Line. It's determined by political views. You like the fed, you're a Yankee. THe term 'stupid Yankee' came about to describe residents of Southern states who talked with the political outlook associated with Northerners. Second memo- once you remember that the war was fought over states' rights (which we're also in support of), letting the war die essentially means giving up on everything we're fighting for here. The states seceded because their rights had been taken, and there were no good alternatives left other than to sit down and put on their chains. The war has already been started, right here. We're just not fighting this phase of the war with as many bullets as we did in the 1860's. and thirdly- He AGREED with you that we shouldn't be itching to go to open war. He said it could be done, not that it should.

Posted 02/09/09 01:27 AM Martinx07 Glendale, CA

I hope California is also tough on this, we don't need to secede completely, we just need more self reliance, self responsibility, more sovereignty, and revive fiscal conservatism, it is very popular here in this state.

Posted 02/09/09 07:15 AM AuthenticAuthor Canutillo, TX

Celluloidhope: Secession may not necessarily lead to war; it is merely the official retraction from a contractual agreement.I agree with you though; it's nothing to be taken lightly. All I'm saying is that it can be done peacefully so long as the Fed and the State in question don't do anything stupid. But if the Fed were to declare war for some peaceful thing a state did, don't blame the victim. These are, after all, our rights we're talking about and they're worth defending. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think anyone in these postings advocated for war anyway. Also, we're ALREADY marginalized because of our position for liberty in the first place, yet it's a position worth taking. And any issue of liberty must include liberties of the State reflected by the People. But if anyone really does advocate for another civil war in these forums, I would say that they're not speaking for the rest of us who know better.

Posted 02/09/09 08:24 AM Andrew Sica Woodbury, CT

And let's be honest - Lincoln was essentially a tyrant psychopath was able to turn America into a virtual Monarchy - and in one war he managed to almost destroy and sense of state's rights. He's just like modern American rules - he took advantage of a crisis (secession) and used it as an excuse for actions to take away rights and freedoms. I hope you meant "Yankees" in terms of typical northern political philosophy! Because there are quite a few of us up here with the same beliefs as you. Anyway - the more New Hampshire does (in terms of this bill, the free state project, etc.), the more I want to move there!

Posted 02/09/09 08:40 AM Andrew Sica Woodbury, CT

Ugh, here is where I wish there was an edit function for comments - I noticed a typo and cannot correct it. My excuse is that my 6 month old kept us up all night.

Posted 02/09/09 09:16 AM ConservativeSouthern Nokesville, VA

Celluloidhope and Warrick I understand your fear of what would happen if war comes. However secession does not necessarily mean war.Todays world is much different from the one in 1860. Today foreign countries like England and France would jump at the chance to set up negotiations between the seceding states and the loyalist states; it would allow them to appear as peacemakers. And the United States has a history of supporting secession. We supported the secession of the former soviet countries, and allowed the secession of the georgian provinces (although not without a little grumbling). Also, as warrick says, the Yankees have neuclear weapons but do you think they would use them on the seceding states when they refuse to use them in foreign wars? I know that we don't understand war as warrick does, but If war was to come, the people who are seceding would be just as willing as ever to face hell for our freedom. This is our streangth. it is the fact that we are fighting for a just cause and that cause is worth our lives if it comes to that. It may not be desirable, and is still avoidable even with secession, but if it comes to war we MUSt fight no matter what the consequences. George washington did, and he knew the streangth of Britain, can we do any less? P.S. warrick and all other veterans who are reading this I thank you for your services while I have the chance.

Posted 02/09/09 10:07 AM ChampaignLibertarian Saint Paris, OH

Warrick, I don't know you or you me. I don't hate you. Based on your comments on offenses not committed against your person, I don't like you. I will never be held accountable for the acts of anyone but myself. I never committed any negative act against any person in another state but Ohio and those that did received that negative action out of consequence of their own actions. Please get over it. We need unity in the face of a runaway federal government. Ohioan, not a "Yankee". Yankees are a baseball team. Go Cincinnati Reds!

Posted 02/09/09 10:09 AM ChampaignLibertarian Saint Paris, OH

Warrick, I don't know you or you me. I don't hate you. Based on your comments on offenses not committed against your person, I don't like you. I will never be held accountable for the acts of anyone but myself. I never committed any negative act against any person in another state but Ohio and those that did received that negative action out of consequence of their own actions. Please get over it. We need unity in the face of a runaway federal government. Ohioan, not a "Yankee". Yankees are a baseball team. Go Cincinnati Reds!

Posted 02/09/09 10:26 AM AK209 Manteca, CA

They mentioned California as one coming on board soon. What office do you write to push this through and who do I talk to at the state level to show my support and find out the timeline on progress so far?

Posted 02/09/09 2:04 PM TrevBenson Surry, VA

I agree with Warrick 100%! Sic Semper Tyrannis! ChampaignLibertarian, I have many friends from up North who are not "Yankees". Yankees are just Northerners that support a strong central government. In case you didn't know, the South has been involved in the liberty movement since Jefferson and Patrick Henry. We view Virginia as MORE important then America. The South having it's own unique culture has developed it's own terms for big government socialists/fascists and Yankee is just one of them. Just as there is a difference between Canada and Mexico, there is a difference between North and South, in both culture and climate. The problem is the ammount of people, the North having more people tends to rip off the South which leads to "tyranny of the majority" (To understand check out Federalist Papers #9 and #10) That is why the South tends to favor State Sovereignty, because it is the only way in which the whole U.S. can be treated equally and have all it's unique needs taken care of. Different climates = different needs/faction. Different population numbers = tyranny of the majority under a strong central government. State Sovereignty = Solution/Freedom

Posted 02/09/09 2:11 PM ConservativeSouthern Nokesville, VA

ChampaignLibertarian, Warrick is absolutly correct when he uses the term yankee, please allow me to explain why. During the War for Southern Independence, we southerners recognized that there was a political and cultural difference between north and South. The term yankee came to mean anyone from the Northern side of the American spectrum. Those differences remain in place today with one more added: Heritage. Down here in Virginia the term "Yankee" is used to mean, in general" any person from the north, and in particular any politically correct/corrupt person. considering he was refering to corrupt politicians he was perfectly justified in using the term yankee. He was not blaming you for your ancestores crimes. however, even if he was using it to refer to Northerners, thats just the way we do it down here. we are Virginians and we use the term Yankee. Depending on how it is used it could be offensive but isn't always. This is one thing, i'm afraid, that the Yankees (refering to Northerners in a non offensive way) will have to accept as something we do down here. It is our heritage and we aren't willing to give it up.

Posted 02/09/09 2:49 PM Planning4aCrash London, United Kingdom

Most people thought it was boom times up until about, em, July this year! Imagine how fast public consciousness will change in the next 12 months. Just wait till young kids and middle class moms get pissed off, then the establishment men follow. Lets just hope that they are driven against government rather than by Obama Stazi fascist mass movement.

Posted 02/09/09 5:39 PM david bauer Sioux Falls, SD

I must caution you, my fellow Patriots, that a revolution by means of force is the last solution... I suggest that we continue or peaceful protests and debates, and attempt to inform "the masses," rather than enflame them into arms... The devestating consequences of taking up arms at the current moment are far-reached. For example, if all out revolution was to take hold now, there is no way to ensure that we would not be over-run by socialists, who's philosophies have been ingrained in the youth of this nation--my peers which I have utmost contempt for. Words of reason are still the most potent weapon we have, and I believe this is going to continue to be the case into the future. Until each and every possible diplomatic solution is eliminated, the possible solution of rising to arms, as our forefathers did some 230 years ago, should be kept as a last resort. David James Bauer

Posted 02/09/09 5:48 PM david bauer Sioux Falls, SD

I must caution you, my fellow Patriots, that a revolution by means of force is the last solution... I suggest that we continue or peaceful protests and debates, and attempt to inform "the masses," rather than enflame them into arms... The devestating consequences of taking up arms at the current moment are far-reached. For example, if all out revolution was to take hold now, there is no way to ensure that we would not be over-run by socialists, who's philosophies have been ingrained in the youth of this nation--my peers which I have utmost contempt for. Words of reason are still the most potent weapon we have, and I believe this is going to continue to be the case into the future. Until each and every possible diplomatic solution is eliminated, the possible solution of rising to arms, as our forefathers did some 230 years ago, should be kept as a last resort. David James Bauer

Posted 02/09/09 8:06 PM sbb4th Chesterfield, VA

At this point I think the current administration is trying to goad someone into a rash act so they can invoke marshal law. I firmly believe this is what Biden was referring to when he told a group of leftist supporters supporters that they must trust them that they were doing would be doing the right thing although at first glance it wouldn't appear that way. Secession would be a huge undertaking. The feds have permeated almost everything. However, once the dollar collapses and the country goes bankrupt there may not be the will or ability to stop states from going their own separate ways. Economic collapse broke up the old Soviet empire. I, for one, do not want to be responsible for all the debt this country has built up nor do I want to live in a country where the currency is worthless. I didn't vote for that. I never authorized congress to spend us into oblivion.

Posted 02/09/09 8:24 PM Felegund Jonesville, KY

you may be right, 4th. Action now leads to martial law and tyranny, action later leads to dissolution of central government and liberty. Of course, we get the latter with 'action' (violence) at never, too, so unless it gets REALLY ugly, I think I'll stay put, speak truth, educate people, and try to win without bullets.

Posted 02/12/09 10:58 AM jbo5112 Kansas City, MO

I realize this is old, but I must comment that sections 4 and 7 of Montana's bill are incredible. (http://data.opi.mt.gov/bills/2009/billhtml/HB0246.htm) Section 4: Prohibitions (basically the Federal Government cannot regulate munitions made and sold in Montana) A personal firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition that is manufactured commercially or privately in Montana and that remains within the borders of Montana is not subject to federal law or federal regulation, including registration, under the authority of congress to regulate interstate commerce. It is declared by the legislature that those items have not traveled in interstate commerce. This section applies to a firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition that is manufactured in Montana from basic materials and that can be manufactured without the inclusion of any significant parts imported from another state. Generic and insignificant parts that have other manufacturing or consumer product applications are not firearms, firearms accessories, or ammunition, and their importation into Montana and incorporation into a firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition manufactured in Montana does not subject the firearm, firearm accessory, or ammunition to federal regulation. It is declared by the legislature that basic materials, such as unmachined steel and unshaped wood, are not firearms, firearms accessories, or ammunition and are not subject to congressional authority to regulate firearms, firearms accessories, and ammunition under interstate commerce as if they were actually firearms, firearms accessories, or ammunition. The authority of congress to regulate interstate commerce in basic materials does not include authority to regulate firearms, firearms accessories, and ammunition made in Montana from those materials. Firearms accessories that are imported into Montana from another state and that are subject to federal regulation as being in interstate commerce do not subject a firearm to federal regulation under interstate commerce because they are attached to or used in conjunction with a firearm in Montana. Section 7:Duties of the attorney general. (1) A Montana citizen whom the government of the United States attempts to prosecute, under the congressional power to regulate interstate commerce, for violation of a federal law concerning the manufacture, sale, transfer, or possession of a firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition manufactured and retained within Montana must be defended in full by the Montana attorney general. (2) Upon written notification to the Montana attorney general by a Montana citizen of intent to manufacture a firearm, a firearm accessory, or ammunition to which [sections 1 through 7] apply, the attorney general shall seek a declaratory judgment from the federal district court for the district of Montana that [sections 1 through 7] are consistent with the United States constitution.

Posted 02/14/09 05:50 AM JanColdwater Staten Island, NY

Dear Assemblyman Tobacco and Senator Lanza, It is with great distress that I write you once again. I am a citizen who fears for her children’s future; a possible future without freedom or liberty. Our state is in jeopardy of losing its rights and we need our Representatives to stand up and fight with all that they have, not hand our rights over to the federal government! Gentlemen, we are at a crucial place and time in our nation’s history. We as a people have allowed our government to take too much control away from the us and we need to fight to get it back before it is too late. Other states have introduced resolutions declaring state sovereignty under the Ninth and Tenth Amendment to the Constitution, including Arizona, Hawaii, Montana, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oklahoma and Washington. I ask that you follow suit immediately as it is of most importance at this time - for if the present congress gets their wish to rewrite our constitution, the states, the people and the constitution will be null and void. This will push all freedom loving citizens to the brink and God forbid we should have to refresh the tree of liberty with the blood of patriots and tyrants (to use a quote from Jefferson) in this great land ever again! Gentlemen, as we speak, there are those who conspire to commit treason and there are those who are ignorantly playing into their plans. I ask that you be NOT one who is in either of those two despicable categories but rather of the caliber most regarded for your loyalty to the cause of freedom. It is with great hope that I am speaking to men with the fortitude needed for such an endeavor as this is a fight for our right to exist as a free people and it very well may be our last. I can only hope, pray, write, speak out and try to shine a light on what seems like such dark days ahead and that I will continue to do. In high hopes, JanColdwater Staten Island, NY 10307 Sat. Feb 14th, 2009 WE Are The Change We NEED! http://www.campaignforliberty.com http://www.endthefed.us http://www.gi vemeliberty.org http://www.restoretherepublic.com Sending this letter to Senators and Governor and Congressman as well.