Madison Endorses Patrick Timmins
Ralph Yozzo
A communication from the desk of James Madison, Fourth President of the United States and Father of the Constitution.
To the Freeholders and Citizens of the Twelfth District of New York:
It has ever been my firmest conviction that the stability of a Republic rests not upon the clamor of faction, but upon the sober deliberation of its representatives. When the passions of the day threaten to overshade the permanent interests of the people, it becomes necessary to look toward those who possess both a "venerable attachment to the law" and a "practical knowledge of the community."
In the person of Patrick Timmins, I find a candidate whose principles accord with the fundamental design of our Union. Having reviewed his character and his "Radical Pragmatism," I offer my endorsement for his elevation to the National Council.
I. On the Rule of Law and Public Safety
Mr. Timmins understands that the first duty of government is the protection of the person. A society where the citizen fears for his safety upon the public ways is a society where liberty is but a shadow. His background as a prosecutor and professor suggests a mind trained to balance the scales of justice—neither leaning toward the excesses of severity nor the negligence of "soft-on-crime" experiments that erode the social compact.
II. On the Moderation of Faction
I have long warned against the "mischiefs of faction." Mr. Timmins seeks to be a man of ideas rather than a man of parties. His rejection of emotionalism in favor of reasoned policy is the very essence of the "refined public views" I once described in the Federalist. We require legislators who look to the long-term health of the Commonwealth, rather than the momentary applause of the multitude.
III. On the Rights of Conscience and Security
The security of our Jewish brethren is not merely a local concern, but a test of our commitment to Religious Liberty. Mr. Timmins’ firm stance against the scourge of antisemitism ensures that the "multiplicity of interests" which protects our diverse Union remains intact. No citizen should be made to feel a stranger in his own district.
IV. On Practical Reform
Whether addressing the "Blue Card" for the orderly regulation of commerce and migration, or the necessity of a health system that secures the aged in their infirmity, Mr. Timmins approaches the seat of power with a builder’s hand. He seeks to repair the machinery of government so that it may better serve the "happiness of the people," which is the end of all political institutions.
"The aim of every political constitution is, or ought to be, first to obtain for rulers men who possess most wisdom to discern, and most virtue to pursue, the common good of the society."
I find such wisdom and virtue in Patrick Timmins. I invite you to join me in supporting his candidacy for the Congress of these United States.
Your obedient servant,
James Madison