Manifesto of Individual Federalism

 

 

Vision Statement

 

We envision a sovereign republic where individual liberty is paramount, economic prosperity is driven by free markets, and the federal government is restrained by the Constitution. Individual Federalism asserts that the highest form of governance is self-governance, supported by a system that keeps political power decentralized and accountable at the local and state levels.

 

Preamble

 

In an era where the balance of power and individual freedoms are increasingly challenged, we, the proponents of Individual Federalism, assert our unwavering commitment to the foundational principles enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. We believe in a society where individual responsibility is paramount, government intervention is limited, and the rights of states are respected. This manifesto outlines our vision for a just and prosperous society that upholds the principles of personal liberty, fair governance, and collective effort for common goals.

 

I. Core Principles

 

The U.S. Constitution provides the framework for this ideology, with the following principles serving as the standard for all policy:

 

Individual Empowerment and Responsibility

 

We believe in the intrinsic power and potential of every individual. Personal responsibility and individual rights are the cornerstones of a free society, ensuring each person has the opportunity to achieve their potential through their own efforts, free from undue government interference.

 

Collective Effort for Common Goals

 

While we champion individualism, we also recognize the power of voluntary cooperation. Collaboration among like-minded individuals can achieve shared goals and amplify individual strengths. Our society must encourage voluntary effort to address common challenges, rather than relying on mandated solutions.

 

Fairness and Equality

 

True fairness and equality mean providing equal opportunities for all without creating special privileges or punitive policies based on perceived grievances. We advocate for policies that maintain a level playing field, ensuring everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

 

Constitutional Governance and Restraint

 

The U.S. Constitution is the ultimate guide. We pledge to uphold its provisions, including checks and balances and the separation of powers, ensuring government is restrained and accountable.

 

Federalism and States' Rights

 

Federalism is fundamental. We support the autonomy of state and local governments in making decisions best suited to their communities, as the federal government must not overreach into matters better handled at the state level (Tenth Amendment).

 

Limited Federal Government and Self-Sufficiency

 

A limited federal government is essential for preserving individual freedoms. We advocate for reducing dependency on government social programs over two generations, gradually phasing out the welfare state to foster self-sufficiency.

 

Second Amendment Advocacy

 

The right to own firearms is a fundamental liberty essential for personal protection and the safeguarding of freedom. We support the Second Amendment unequivocally.

 

Personal Faith and Spirituality

 

Faith and spirituality provide moral guidance and community support. We recognize the indispensable role of personal faith in fostering a just society, favoring personal spirituality over organized religious institutions in the civic sphere.

 

II. Specific Policy Views

 

 

Marriage Equality

 

Marriage is a personal relationship. Regulation should occur at the state level, not federally. We support the right of individuals to marry whom they choose without federal interference, while recognizing the biblical origins of marriage.

 

Economic Policy

 

We advocate for a free-market economy with minimal government intervention. The government must not pick winners and losers. Taxation must be limited to what is absolutely necessary for essential government functions.

 

Defense and Foreign Policy

 

Maintain a strong national defense but avoid acting as the world's police. We support strategic trade relationships that encourage economic independence and mutual benefit without creating dependency.

 

Healthcare

 

Healthcare is a personal responsibility based on individual stewardship for one’s own health and well-being. We advocate for minimal government involvement in healthcare provision.

 

Environmental Stewardship

 

We affirm a biblical responsibility for environmental stewardship. While we do not believe global warming is entirely man-made, we recognize the need for responsible resource management and environmental conservation.

 

III. Ideological Distinctions

 

 

Differences with Similar Ideologies

 

While Individual Federalism shares a commitment to individual liberties and limited government with Libertarianism, we place a much greater emphasis on Federalism and States' Rights for regulating issues like marriage and abortion.

We align closely with Traditional Conservatism in valuing the Constitution and individual responsibility. However, we distinctly stress the need for a gradual, two-generation reduction of dependency on government social programs and advocate for voluntary collective effort.

 

Stark Differences with Opposing Ideologies

 

Individual Federalism is fundamentally opposed to both Marxism and Social Marxism.

  • Marxism advocates for the abolition of private property and centralization of resources. Our ideology champions individual property rights and a free-market economy.

  • Social Marxism seeks extensive government intervention and social engineering based on identity politics. We reject policies that create special privileges and instead emphasize individual merit and equal opportunity under the law.

 

Call to Action

 

We invite all who share our vision to join FREEDOM: Coalition for Individual Federalism. Together, we can advocate for a just society that upholds the principles of personal liberty, fair governance, and collective effort.

Disclaimer: The description of Individual Federalism presented here reflects personal viewpoints and aims to succinctly outline the ideology’s core principles, policy stances, and commitment to constitutional integrity, individual freedoms, and responsible governance.