In recent weeks, there has been much discussion regarding secession. All 50 states have signed an online petition to secede from the Union. Some states have even acquired enough signatures, 25,000, to require a response from the White House. There are some who feel that even talk of secession is, in itself, treasonous. Looking back through the United States' founding will reveal that secessionism is a deeply rooted American principle.
The British colonists who came to North America in 1607 settled in Jamestown, Virginia. Over the years, the British nationals thought it was unfair that they had to pay taxes to a ruthless King. As every American should know, the British colonists seceded from British control in 1776. Those who wanted to secede were seen as traitors, while we now look on them as American heroes. This country was founded on secessionist principles.
Without secession, a monolithic federal government is allowed to run freely out of control, without regard to individual State rights. The federal government is vastly overstepping its bounds with the continuous trampling of states' and citizens' rights. President Obama has the authority to create a "kill list" that enables him to order the death of anyone he deems a terrorist. This kill list can now include American Citizens. Thanks to the Patriot Act, we now have the ubiquitous TSA Agents. One can read about these "security officials" daily in the headlines regarding air travel. In California, agents are able to arrest those individuals who use marijuana. This occurs while the state and local governments of California have approved the right to use marijuana.
In a free country, governments derive their power from the consent of the governed. Can we honestly say that this is still the case in the United States? With the circus show that was the election now concluded, it is apparent the status quo is still alive and strong with both parties being at fault. Can we be a free people if we can't rid ourselves of this overbearing government?
Christopher Erdman
Muncy
Submitted by Virtual Newsroom
