The Tea Party gained momentum, helping alter the course of the 2010 election, narrowing the Democratic lead in the Senate and bringing key wins to regain the House majority.
Leading into the Presidential campaign, conservatives and other Republicans could not carry the day, leading to a definitive if not sweeping victory for President Obama.
If the Tea Party was an initial, outer defensive perimeter of traditional values, other organizations will need to close an inner perimeter in defense of Constitutional liberty.
Immediately after the results were declared, many pundits from all sides performed a postmortem on the Romney campaign. A second term President, with supporting fires from political machinery and broadcast media postured for further permanent changes in America in keeping with his agenda. Observed by many patriots, but severely understated, is the potential permanency of changes ushered in by populist group think that will outlast the regular election cycles.
Following redoubled efforts to weaken the Second Amendment of the Constitution, many citizens have begun to reconsider their freedoms and their relationship to the government. Many citizens have purchased weapons and ammo based on communications from the federal, and in some cases state regulators. In addition increased membership in the National Rifle Association represented a spirited debate of the need for "the right to bear arms".
Oath Keepers represents an important inner defense between citizens and the abuse of powers. Americans aware of the current tide will not cede Rights and Freedoms to a wave of "popular" thought.
The men who founded this country were brilliant and inspired. Those who wish to claim our declared Freedoms, are resolute.
Yet it is important for calm and clear thinking. Rash actions will serve the interests of collective interests who wish to disband our Rights. In written forums, frequented by 'professional' bloggers and institutional liberals, conservatives should speak clearly of the issues. We must avoid any language that appears as a threat, while still guarding our rights, our families, and our free speech.
Our words will not be read responsibly, but emotionally by opponents. We must choose our posture and our dialog well.
