Young Republicans time to step up

Fellow Young Republicans,

As we approach the one year mark of this administration, our nation is forced to look at the individuals we voted for and the issues we hoped would be addressed. As a young Republican, I am both concerned and optimistic about the direction of our great country The high unemployment numbers, the Christmas terror scare, the bribing of votes for health care reform - these are just a few of the recent situations which have created concern for all Americans - concern about effective economic policies, the stimulus package, national security and defense. These aren't small concerns, either; economic stability and national defense are safeties we cannot afford to jeopardize any further.

Fortunately, this is the time for young Republicans to step up. Our generation will soon have the chance to lead the nation, and it is the responsibility of the youth to influence the direction toward which our country is moving. As Americans realize that fiscal responsibility is necessary and oversized government destructive, there is a chance for our generation to lead the government back to a healthy state - of the people, by the people, for the people. I maintain a lot of optimism for the 2010 and 2012 elections as Americans turn to responsible governmening to work through the challenges we face.

That said, there are no guaranteed victories and the younger members of the GOP must take the initiative to create real, effective, and beneficial change in Washington. As a College Republican, I feel that it is our responsibility to watch the mistakes and the successes in government, foresee the unique issues which face our generation, and understand the necessary actions to perpetuate the freedom and strength enjoyed by America for many generations before ours.

I am very excited about Our CT Grand Young Party as the organization facilitates communication between young people and encourages involvement of young conservatives. I think the organization has a great future in keeping post-college grads involved as well. As they begin new jobs and start to encounter some of the actual issues facing Americans today, the College Republicans can learn from them and collaborate in working toward a better future. I hope that through this organization young people will understand and value the impact they can have in volunteering, voting, and taking unique approaches to the conservative effort.

So, in all of this, I hope that we, the youth in society, can maintain an optimistic outlook on the future of our nation while understanding the issues facing us. I sincerely hope that as a member of the Board of Advisors for Our CT GYP, we can create an open dialogue which will allow young people to voice their concerns and suggest innovative approaches to spreading responsible and effective government.

I'd like to also extend a thank you to Chris Meek for this wonderful opportunity and for being one of the few politically active adults who listen to both the concerns and the ideas of young people. Congratulations to all other members of the Board - I look forward to working with you on this great endeavor!

Happy new year!

Josie Amendola