I have honestly placed much prayer and thought into the decision you read about in the headline above. For awhile, I wasn’t planning on endorsing any Republican Party candidate for President. In 2006, I left the GOP and have no intention of ever heading back. The Republicans have long since abandoned the principles I hold dear. This is why I am a proud member of the Constitution Party.However, I did see some candidates on the national level who I thought may be worthy of my vote. These candidates were Tom Tancredo, Mike Huckabee, Alan Keyes and Ron Paul. Here is my thought process:

Tom Tancredo: After having listened to his address to the 2007 CPAC convention, I was sold. Here’s a guy who actually sounded like a conservative, with overtones of Ronald Reagan. I actually did run up to New Hampshire to do some campaigning for the man. However, one thing did bother me about Tancredo – his view on the war. But, I am convinced, had he been in the White House in 2003, we would not be in Iraq today. However, Tom dropped out of the race long before I could ever cast my vote. Then he did the unthinkable – endorsed Mitt Romney. That dropped Tancredo a few points in my book.

Mike Huckabee: I love this man. Here is a Christian who speaks like a Christian! After hearing a few of his messages, I noticed he was echoing some of the same themes I heralded in my run for Congress. Wonderful! I have donated to his campaign, gone to two of his rallies, and even held signs for him. On the moral issues, Huckabee is great. However, on the economic side of the equation – he is terrible. He raised taxes several times as governor, supports in-state tuition for illegal immigrants, and does not quite understand the limitations the Constitution places on the federal government. That ended it for me.

Alan Keyes: Who can’t love Alan Keyes! I think the man is great. His views on the UN and the war bother me some, but not enough to take him out of consideration. He is an inspiration to listen to and takes a very strong pro-life stance. However, the way he is conducting his current bid for the Presidency does force me from going all out for the guy. He began by announcing his plan for national review, even to the extent of asking for seed money. I am a Baptist preacher, but even I think that sounds a little odd. In fact, it sounds more like a tv evangelist than a serious contender. If Alan runs with the Constitution Party, I will support him.

That leaves Dr. Ron Paul. I have been impressed with Dr. Paul from day one. He is the only candidate that has a true commitment to the Constitution. Even since jumping into the national spotlight, he has not compromised or wavered in his convictions one bit. There is only one candidate who answers questions honestly and thoroughly. His candor is refreshing.

I love his view on taxes – abolish the income tax and replace it with nothing! He understands that Congress does not need the revenue the income tax generates, if it were to go back to Constitutional spending only! He understands that the federal government has no right to act outside of what the Constitution calls for – those things being left to the states. He has NEVER voted for a tax increase, an unbalanced budget or a congressional pay increase.

As for moral issues, Ron Paul is the only man left standing for what is right. Folks like Huckabee and Romney say they are pro-life, but where were they when Ron Paul introduced the Sanctity of Life Act before the Congress? This bill would have recognized life beginning at conception, giving us more empowerment to protect the unborn. Where were all the other candidates waiting to sign their name in support? Other candidates speak at pro-life rallies and put on a good show. Ron Paul is the only man brave enough to take real action to effect real change.

On February 5, I will cast my vote for Congressman Ron Paul. I pray that you will consider doing the same.

Kevin Thompson is an Assistant Pastor in MA, a former candidate for the US House of representatives, as well as a member of the Constitution Party of Massachusetts state committee member. You can read his blog at http://kevinjthompson.wordpress.com