One of the most encouraging developments in American politics is the increased interest and participation by many people across our country.  In a way, it is unfortunate that it took the combination of bail-outs, excessive spending, global warming taxes and regulations, and government-mandated health care for so many Americans to rise up and take action.  But they have, and it is a good thing. 

The increased political involvement has slowed the pace of the liberal agenda.  Even while many of us are concerned about the new health care law and its intrusion into our lives, it is much different than originally envisioned by the Democrat-controlled Congress.  They did not get the bill they want because more people got engaged and let Washington know they did not support the public option, for example. Greater participation in sorting through the issues of the day  also provides an opportunity for all of us to think deeper about our constitutional system and the role of government in our lives. The question is not just whether specific proposals are a good or bad idea. The issues go back as far as our nation’s founding, and they involve the natural tension between the pursuit of equality and the yearning for freedom.