Combining the existing and historical foundational principles of the Republican Party, we have compiled this Declaration of Sentiments about what it means to be a Republican:
We believe the United States of America is unlike any other nation on earth. We believe America is exceptional because of our historic role — first as refuge, then as defender, and now as exemplar of liberty for the world to see.
We believe — as did the Declaration of Independence: that all are created equal, endowed by their Creator with inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
We believe our constitutional system — limited government, separation of powers, federalism, and the rights of the people — must be preserved uncompromised for future generations.
We believe that the proper function of government is to do for the people those things that have to be done but cannot be done, or cannot be done as well by individuals, and that the most effective government is closest to the people.
We believe that good government is based on the individual and that each person’s ability, dignity, freedom and responsibility must be honored and recognized.
We believe political freedom and economic freedom are indivisible. When political freedom and economic freedom are separated — both are in peril; when united, they are invincible. That’s why we believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, age, sex, gender or national origin. We believe that persons with disabilities should be afforded equal rights, equal justice, and equal opportunity as well.
We believe that Americans value and should preserve their feelings of national strength and pride, and at the same time share with people everywhere a desire for peace and freedom and the extension of human rights throughout the world.
We believe we must retain those principles worth retaining, yet always be receptive to new ideals with an outlook broad enough to accommodate thoughtful change and varying points of view.
Finally, we believe that the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.