Rich Nugent
I have always marveled at the brilliance of our Founding Fathers in creating the Constitution, a document that has endured the test of time. In fact, when you consider that since its creation and adoption,it has only been amended 27 times, and ten of those amendments were the Bill of Rights adopted in 1791, their wisdom and foresight is beyond impressive. It is inspired.
Sadly, much of that wisdom is lost on young people today. So this year, in observance of Constitution Day, I've asked middle school and high school students in the District to participate in an essay competition answering the question, "what does the Constitution mean to you?" By asking our youngsters to study the Constitution and to think about the difference it makes in their lives, we are providing them with the tools and perspective necessary to understand their important role in our democracy's future. The Constitution forms the foundation of our great nation. Every new law proposed by Congress must meet its requirements. It defines the roles of the various branches of government. And most importantly, it is the firewall between our individual freedom and the power-hungry government that
would inevitably take it away.
Finally, I've also organized a Rally For A Balanced Budget Amendment to raise awareness and support for passing and ratifying a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. As has been the case throughout our history, the Constitution has saved us in times of great national peril. I truly believe, and so do two-thirds of all Americans, that the United States Congress should be required to balance its budget just as state and local governments all across the country do. The only way to achieve that is by amendment the Constitution, the only document strong enough to stand up to the power of the self-interested in Washington. This Friday morning in Dade City, State Representative Will Weatherford and Pasco County Commissioner Pat Mulieri will join
me to rally support for passage of a Balanced Budget Amendment. I hope you'll be able to join us.
The rally will be at the Pasco County Historical Courthouse in Dade City (37918 Meridian Ave) from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.