Democrats are trying hard to label the Republican Party the party of “No.” Using the Democrats’ logic, does that make the Democratic Party the party of “Yes” and those who are unaffiliated the party of “Maybe” or “Confused”?

Since the Democrats have left the “Maybes” or “Confuseds” out in the cold, I would like to assist them in finding a home. Accordingly, I have devised a simple self-test. Listed below are several core values and current items to which Republicans say a resounding “No.” If you also say no to most of the items on the list, you would be welcomed and probably feel more comfortable with the Republican Party. If you say yes to most, welcome to the Democratic Party:

1. Bigger government. 2. More government interference and regulation in our lives. 3. More and higher taxes. 4. Less individual responsibility and accountability. 5. The Second Amendment does not guarantee individuals the right to bear arms. 6. The government should be allowed to take a person’s property without a valid public purpose and just compensation. 7. We need more government spending, and the resulting monstrous deficits will not bankrupt the country. 8. The so-called stimulus bill has created or saved two million jobs and is not a waste of taxpayer money. 9. Congress should pass the health-care bill presently before Congress by whatever means necessary. 10. Taxpayer money should be used to finance abortions.

If you said yes to most of the above, Democrats will love you forever. If you said no to most, I invite you to join the Republican Party, participate, share your views and insist their elected representatives stick to these core values in the performance of their duties. Our children’s and grandchildren’s futures depend on it.

Jack Olsen

Foxfire Village