I think that in the beginning the "tea party" movement was mostly made up of educated, libertarian leaning people. The advocation of the constitutional principals of liberty spread pretty quickly in the 18 or so months prior to the 2008 election. Ron Paul and the Campaign for Liberty was the biggest catalyst in the growth of these beliefs.
Of course at the time the main stream media, including the supposedly conservative FOXnews channel, lampooned Paul and as votes for Paul could hurt their chances of getting their guy elected. Soon after the election the main stream conservative media, and political leaders started latching onto the most "hot button" views of the that movement. In reality, this "tea party" movement, the one that 25% of Americans claim to be a part of is similar to the original ideas in name only.
It's really quite sad.
It's typical of most movements, be it political or otherwise.
Take for instance the Grunge/Alternative movement in music. As more and more people became 'alternative,' the original founders of the movement found the entire genre drifting further from its roots.
That isn't to say that Paul hasn't a number of lunatic supporters from the outset. It is immensely ironic that today's "tea-baggers," are all for military occupation, decreased civil liberties, and more government intervention (as long is it helps with their personal agenda).
I became a believer in Paul's message because it seemed as though he was the only one in any of the debates that made any kind of sense. It was such a breath of fresh air.
or ?
neither, you fracking dipshit. I already voiced my opinions on the lunatic fringe. I thought his views on foreign policy, both in the trade and defense sectors was impressive.
the views are simple.
1. let people do what ever the shazbot! they want as long as it doesn't impede on the rights of others
2. do not restrict trade with any nation
3. do not go to war unless there is an immediate threat and then declare war fight and win.
3b. cut military spending back to year 2000 levels.
His stance on other "hot button" issues is the correct view as well. For instance, get the gov. out of the marriage biz. Let states decide whether or not abortion is legal.
except:
Choose their own health insurance
Freely express their religion in public (unless its non-Christian)
Eat a double bacon cheeseburger
Living through birth
Profit
Petition the government for redress of grievances (unless you agree with them)
Keep and bear arms without infringement
Smoke
Attend the school of your choice
Have equal protection under the law
Buy gold
etc etc etc
Whatever
they think you can't do. They know better than the rest of us "little people"
“The federal government – yes – can do most anything in this country,”