DALEVILLE, Ind. —
Mike Sandefur wants his rights back.
As founder of the Freedom Maker Coalition of Indiana, Sandefur believes the federal health care bill passed by both houses of Congress threatens the constitutional rights of all Americans.
“We have a duty not to obey laws that are unconstitutional,” Sandefur said. “We want the state to agree with us and offer us some kind of protection.”
Sandefur’s coalition is making its case this weekend as the “Operation Indiana Democracy” campaign travels to 10 cities, spreading its message and rallying opponents of the bill. After opening in Nashville on Thursday, the tour stopped in Daleville on Friday, for a rally at the Great American Market. Only a handful of perhaps six organizers and supporters were on hand, but the group hoped to communicate its message to shoppers.
“The precedent set by Obamacare is that if you don’t buy something that is advantageous to interstate commerce, we’re going to punish you,” said featured speaker Thomas Weddle. “Once that precedent is in place, there’s nothing they can’t make you buy.”
The coalition believes the bill violates both the Indiana and U.S. constitutions and lawmakers must therefore reject it through the process of interposition. It claims the state has a duty to protect the constitutional rights of its citizens and plans to throw its support behind constitutionally minded lawmakers.
“Indiana is part of the lawsuit against the federal government with Florida,” said Beverly Zimmerman. “It’s the wrong lawsuit.”
The tour is part of a larger campaign that will extend over 10 months, culminating at the end of the Indiana General Assembly. Organizers expected to draw greater support Friday night during a stop in Fort Wayne. Each event is expected to feature local speakers, along with touring speakers who belong to the coalition.
“If Congress wants to establish health care, they have the ability to tax, but they’re not doing that,” Weddle said.
The coalition hopes to partner with other so-called “patriot groups.” including the American Tea Party. No speeches, per se, were given during the Daleville event, but coalition members seemed pleased to have the opportunity to present their message.
“All of this is being done under the mantra of health care,” Sandefur said. “Health care is important, but the principle is more important.”
Contact Justin Schneider: 640-4809, justin.schneider@heraldbulletin.com.
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