[silver_pilate]

Some very enlightening and refreshing discussions occuring in this thread. I've enjoyed reading it.

As for me...I am also a conservative Republican. I've got beliefs on which I build the foundation of my life and I will stand strong to uphold those beliefs. That would be what classifies me as conservative (as opposed to liberals with the "sure...that sounds like it'll be neat...what the heck" philosopy ).

I've had the great privalege to meet George W. Bush on two occassions when he was governor of Texas, and I was very impressed by his down-to-earth attitude...refreshing in politicians. I followed his career in my own state and was truly impressed by the job he did. He worked closely with both Republicans and Democrats to conduct the business of the state for the good of the state.

I've known Pete Laney (TX Speaker of the House) all my life, and I know personally that Pete, who is a Democrat, and Bush had a very successful political relationship which allowed a great deal of work to be done in a bi-partisan manner. In fact, they grew to be very close friends, and Pete still visits Bush in D.C. on occassion.

All that being said, I will likely NOT vote for Governor Rick Perry in the next election, Republican or not. From information I've received, and things I have observed, we could do a lot better for Governor in Texas. I was also disturbed by the OBVIOUS gerrymandering which Texas Republicans engaged in in the recent re-districting. I've got some real soul-serching and researching to do before the next day at the polls.


--nathan