I’m not a Republican any more...

I'm far too tired with the lack of character displayed by members of my former party. I'm disgusted with the fact that they exhibit little to no moral fortitude, neither do they appear to care about conforming to the founding principles of our country.

So, I'm done with them.

Now, Democrats, don't start crowing with joy because your party isn't any better! Your representatives seem pretty rife with self-serving corruption, too, and I'm tired of having to choose between the pot and the kettle.

Therefore, I'm now calling myself a Christian Conservative. Note the order of that: Christian is first. My first allegiance is always to my risen Lord and Savior, and I cannot endorse any candidate who does not live according to a biblical moral code, who does not keep to the highest standards of integrity and honor.

First off, if you're "pro-choice," I want nothing to do with you. I will not cast my vote in favor of anyone who supports the state-sanctioned murder of innocents. Abortion is an abomination in the sight of God, and a terrible, black stain on our country's conscience. Any candidate who wants my support must believe firmly in the sanctity of life and have a record to prove that they will fight for that position. I want a candidate who is unabashedly against Roe v. Wade, and outspoken in favor of its reversal.

Secondly, I want an honest candidate. I want a man or a woman who strives for openness and integrity in every area of their life, personal and public. I understand how mistakes can be made - none of us are perfect - but mistakes should be dealt with immediately, with full disclosure and proper apologies accompanying appropriate preventative measures for the future. I don't want any mealy "Well, if you were offended, I'm sorry" apologies, I want "What I said/did was wrong and unacceptable. I take full responsibility, and I will not do that again. I apologize."

I want a candidate with fortitude and perseverance. I want follow through. I want a candidate whose handshake is a guarantee of a done deal. I want a candidate who knows he or she is my employee, who will use my tax dollars responsibly, honestly and transparently. I want someone who remembers what it's like to be a typical citizen, with little access to the "halls of power" or mansions and private jets. I want someone who honors and upholds our laws, and does not exempt himself from them.

I want a candidate who loves this country and believes in its foundational goodness. I want this man or woman to be dedicated to protecting its citizens and our borders. I want our military to be cherished and supported, and directed with wisdom and shrewdness.

I want this candidate to understand that our Founding Fathers were intelligent men who did not write in parables. Our Founding Documents were written in clear English, with documented interpretation and discussion as to their meaning, and the current "dynamic translations" of the Constitution shame and insult our Fathers.

I want a candidate who is color-blind. I do not want any special rights for any ethnic group: either you are qualified to do a job, or you're not - skin color has no bearing on the issue. I want a candidate who works towards encouraging people to take responsibility for their own lives and actions, to stand on their own feet. Welfare and programs like it should be reserved for people who truly need the assistance, and not those who simply have no motivation. I want a candidate who has practical intelligence, however: if one group of people is statistically far more likely to blow up planes, trains, schools, banks, etc., then that's the group our law enforcement officers should focus on.

Finally, I want strong Christian candidates. I want people who go to church on Sunday and read their Bible every day. I want devoted followers of Christ, who take up their cross daily to follow their Savior. I want the humble, servant's attitude of a disciple of Christ. I want them to display a compassion and fortitude similar to Jesus, and I want them to be bold in calling evil by its name.

These are tough standards, and I realize I may have to go with the best available on some - some! - of these points. But if you don't pass on the first test, and don't get at least 80% on the rest, then get out of my face: I want nothing to do with you.

So. Is there anybody out there who can meet my standards? I'm watching. I'm looking.

And I'm hoping and praying...