Looking at what’s happening these days in Washington, D.C., can be somewhat discouraging. The big-government, big-tax, big-deficit, big-spending types have taken control. It seems like every day we hear of a new proposal that threatens the financial well-being of generations to come.

The stimulus package? How about a $1 trillion pot of waste that won’t and hasn’t stimulated the economy. Instead, it will stimulate long-term debt. It will slow the economic progress of the nation. It already has unleashed government controls deeply into what is supposed to be a free-market economy. We didn’t need a package to bail out the auto industry, along with the union allies of the president and speaker of the House.

The health care package? The latest plan calls for a 10-year $900 billion program that will remove patient control and choices by putting government bureaucrats in charge. It will lead to rising health care costs as government-controlled health care crowds out private health initiatives. Health care providers will have little incentive to provide low-cost, high-quality health care.

So what can we do?

Let’s start by saying what we can’t afford to do. We can’t afford to be complacent. These issues are not someone else’s problems to deal with. Fortunately, this great democracy and our unparalleled Constitution and Bill of Rights allow us to be heard, not just on election day, but every day. And our elected officials do listen.
And we can’t be couch-potato critics, grumbling at the television or the newspaper. We have to get out and be heard. Get involved. Go to a rally. They matter, because the media and elected officials pay attention to them.

You can join Americans for Prosperity at our Defending the Dream Summit, on Oct. 2-3 at the Crystal Marriott Gateway in Arlington, Va. You’ll be amazed at the energy generated by so many people who passionately believe in the free market ideals that in jeopardy by those who believe that government is the only solution.

You will be treated to the wisdom of a variety of guest speakers with concrete ideas about how to make our nation stronger. The list this year includes Newt Gingrich, the former speaker of the House whose ideas on improving health care should be heeded by our federal lawmakers; Larry Kudlow, an economist, syndicated columnist and television show host; and Laura Ingraham, syndicated talk show host.

The summit also is a place to learn. You can talk to thousands of other grassroots activists from around the country who will discuss how they work to bring about change in their cities and states. You’ll get tips on how to mobilize others. If you want to be become a leader, there’s training to help you get started.

When you come to Washington, get ready to rally. We’re going to be heard, because Congress in session. It’s just a matter of how loudly and how long. If you think this country needs some fundamental changes, then come and lend your voice to this critical effort.

I’ll see you in D.C.