Yesterday, I was honored to attend Governor Sarah Palin’s speech to the Salina Chamber of Commerce. Her visit inspired Kansans from all directions to drive many miles to see her speak. This wonderful Kansas welcome is a testament to the inspirational figure she is – for her courage, her strength, her leadership, and her willingness to stand tall for the values we should embrace as Americans.

Those in the mainstream media, in the opposite party, and many in the establishment of our own party don’t like Sarah Palin. She is everything they aren’t -- she has class, clear convictions, and she is not in politics for a title, but for the conservative principles she believes in – energy independence, limited government, free markets, and life.

Sarah Palin also doesn’t play by their rules nor does she accept conventional wisdom – she is the personification of independence, and in an era when both Republicans and Democrats have disappointed Americans, this is a very good thing.

So, when it comes to siding with Sarah Palin or the establishment, I’m with Sarah.

Sarah Palin, in becoming Governor, had the courage to challenge establishment Republicans within her own party -- and won. Sarah challenged the establishment of the opposite party -- and won. In 2008, she inspired tens of millions of Americans to follow her, laying the groundwork for the conservative revolution we are witnessing now.

As Sarah helps lead our movement to restore America to its founding principles, her personal story, courage, and leadership – particularly in the storm of those who hail criticisms of her – has inspired many to become involved in the conservative movement – or in some cases, like me, run for office.

In races all across the country, including right here in the 3rd District, Americans will have a choice between establishment candidates (of either party) or clear conservatives who take the same path Sarah did – a path of independence, firm conservative convictions, an embracing of family, a belief in the people, and a deep faith in God to show us the way. I am honored to follow her down this principled path. In closing, let me thank Sarah Palin. Thank you for helping to lead our conservative movement. Thank you for inspiring Americans in all 50 states to a renewed belief that America’s best days are still ahead – and for showing that we must fight for what believe in.

Sarah Palin’s visit to Salina was a great day for Kansas. I was privileged to be a part of it.

Sincerely,