Independent American Party
National Platform

7.  SOCIETY

Vigilance

Thomas Jefferson stated: "The people [not government] ... are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty."

We maintain that every citizen now has an elevated responsibility to become more aware of the threats to -- and to be more personally involved in the preservation of -- our God-given rights and freedom. We oppose any government control over personal vigilance and patriotism.

Entitlement Programs

We maintain that there is no Constitutional authority for federal entitlement programs. We deem these programs as needlessly expensive, ineffective, riddled with fraud and corruption; these serve only to advance socialism. We assert that the responsibility for personal welfare should be assumed first by the individual and family, then by church and other charitable organizations.

While the federal government must honor its commitment to those who have paid into Social Security, health care or welfare, we favor the voluntary participation only, and a gradual phaseout of those systems.

We favor free enterprise and competition between practitioners and health care providers. We support the people's right to choose any modality of health care.

Substance Abuse and Gambling

We recognize that alcohol, drugs and gambling are among the chief causes of broken homes, poverty, juvenile crime, political corruption, and wasted lives.

We favor only state and local legislation which provides stronger deterrents against committing crimes under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

We consider gambling as a threat to the financial stability of the home. We oppose government sponsorship, involvement in, or promotion of gambling, e.g., lotteries, or subsidization of tribal casinos, etc.

Crime

We hold that the safety of law-abiding citizens, and the preservation of their properties are fundamental God-given rights, which take precedence over the rights of criminals.

We support only Constitutional provisions for the apprehension, speedy trial, and fitting punishment for criminal acts. We favor criminals being required to perform useful work to defray the costs of their imprisonment, and, where possible, to provide restitution to their victims. We favor capital punishment when appropriate.

We support the independence of local law enforcement from federal intrusion and control. We oppose federalization of crimes which fall under state jurisdiction. We recognize the sheriff as the ultimate authority of law enforcement for each county.

Commentary:

Platform - Society     (National Chairman's Letter - October 2003)

The Influence of Alcohol in American Life    (by Dr. Phil Stringer)
The Drug Menace    (by Dr. Phil Stringer)
Gambling and the Work Ethic    (by Dr. Phil Stringer)

Restoring Law and Order    (by Dr. Phil Stringer)
The Death Penalty    (by Dr. Phil Stringer)