There has been much discussion within the Tea Party about whether or not the Tea Party should endorse candidates.  Correct me if I am wrong, the current wisdom is that we should not support a candidate in the primary.   I understand the perspective and as the Tea Party it makes sense.

As a patriot, who believes in smaller government, less regulation and a balanced budget, it does not make sense for me however!

While the Tea Party may not be able to take a position regarding a candidate, we, as individuals can and should do everything we can to support the candidate of our choice and do it now!  If the Tea Party as "boots on the ground" does not work in the primary, we miss the opportunity to turn away the next RINO candidate and get a real conservative to run.  It could be the difference between freedom and socialism.

I am drawing the distinction between the Tea Party as an organization and its members who are patriots.  While the Tea Party may feel constrained, patriots are free to act.  We really only have three methods of influence in the political process:

1. Influence like minded individuals to take action (Tea Party does this)

2. Influence who is elected.  (Work in the primaries and general elections)

3. Influence the Elected! (Lobbying your representative)

Think about the impact that Tea Party members had in the 2010 election of Marco Rubio and Rand Paul.  If Marco had not made it through the primary process, we would have elected Charlie Crist as Senator?  Don't leave it to chance.  Pick a candidate and get moving.  If you are a Bachman fan, go to work for her.  If Herman Cain or Newt Gingrich turn you on, send them a check or make phone calls for them.