Readers know that I am a critic of the Whitewater Police Department, and its chief, Jim Coan. In this series, I will consider our Police Commission, and its role — by law and practice — in overseeing the Whitewater Police Department.
My views on the city are those of a libertarian, and libertarian thinking informs my opinions on economics, politics, and education.
Who are Libertarians? We are a fundamental part of the American political tradition, from the earliest days of settlement on this continent. Although we have never claimed an exclusive role in American history, we have always played a prominent part (in fact, long before the term ‘libertarian’ was coined). From Paine and Jefferson, to Thoreau, Friedman, Goldwater and Reagan, we have always been committed to the American dream. If someone tells you that libertarians aren’t committed to America, you can tell him or her that that’s a mistaken view. We are committed to the American promise of “individual liberty, free markets, and peace” (in the apt words of a fine libertarian organization). The libertarian tradition is part of the American tradition.
Who am I? I am the publisher and author of a website about life in Whitewater, Wisconsin. I believe that aspects of life in our city have strayed from the American tradition of liberty, and that a few people here disregard individual rights, free markets, and seek to inhibit a free and vibrant culture. I am a critic from principle: my writing follows the tradition of commentary in which the views matter more than the man.
Nonetheless, I have described myself plainly: I am a resident, citizen, and homeowner in Whitewater, Wisconsin. I am a common man, the son and grandson of two extraordinary men. My father and paternal grandfather were intelligent, serious, and strong advocates for free markets and personal liberty. They loved and defended this beautiful country. The were well-read and well-traveled; they made lasting friends abroad who shared their love of liberty.
By any standard, I have led a charmed life. I am the descendent of a proud tradition, the son and grandson of great men, received the education of my choice and hopes, have traveled widely, and have married well. I have a beautiful family, lovely home, and interesting work.
I have all that I have ever wanted. I write polemically, but I live peacefully. In the thinking of some here, I should surely be a champion of the present scene.
I love our small city, and it is natural that other people also love it. Sometimes, the defenders of a broken institution will defend it by accusing its critics of being strangers, or of personal bias. Neither is true in my case. Sometimes, people worry that by criticizing local officials, they will fail their community.
No one fails Whitewater who embraces America.
What is good and true in America — a Declaration, a Constitution, a Bill of Rights — ennobles Whitewater. We are far more than a small town; we are a small town made great when true to this free republic. No one will disappoint Whitewater, or America, by holding fast to the great people and principles of our democratic tradition.