Dakota Beacon

In the 70 years since implementation of the New Deal, rural populism drove Washington D.C. to expand the depth and breadth of government's role in rural America.  We saw the introduction of rural electrification, paved roads, railroad regulation, grain elevator regulation, and commodity price regulation. Furthermore, the populist movement in North Dakota created the state mill and state bank. I have no intention of debating the efficacy these two institutions or the federal policy of the time. My purpose is to discuss the sour legacy of Populist tactics upon North Dakota.

My favorite traits of the populist are their unceasing adoration for people and the core paranoia of the movement. These attitudes are revealed in the Populist lexicon.

Populist politicians have a distinct vocabulary; I will use Mark Schneider's own words while describing Byron Dorgan and his independent Populist style: a better day for children, quality affordable education for all, a helping hand for those who cannot help themselves. This banter is a distraction to the real issues facing North Dakota specifically Cap and Trade and Health Care. So, while the NPL is out adoring the people, we conservatives must bring forth leadership and ideas to ensure the lignite coal industry a secure future in North Dakota. Finally, Byron Dorgan opposed Cap and Trade for one reason: the speculation of carbon credit on Wall Street.  He made no mention or distinction to the economic impact of Cap and Trade to North Dakota.

Populist politicians such as Earl Pomeroy distract citizens with terms like "out of state interests."  These out of state interests' have for 18 years waged a coordinated effort to slander the character of Earl Pomeroy.  And, after 18 years I would think someone in the media would have the curiosity to ask Congressman Pomeroy to name a specific threat.  Anyway, this is the 21st century and we should encourage interests from outside our borders to aid the growth of our economy.

On another note, I would like to welcome Kevin and Cramer to the congressional race. And let me be clear; Kevin Cramer is a leader and his record demonstrates this fact.

Very Best Regards,
Paul