When I think about our nation's future and the direction the Obama administration and Democrats in Congress are taking us, it's clear to me that electing more Republicans will not be enough.  If, as a party, we're serious about offering the American people a credible, ideological alternative to the leftist, big government policies of this administration, then what we need are strong, conservative leaders who will have a national platform to articulate our conservative principles.

Jay Riemersma will have a national platform on his first day in office.  He was a star in high school.  He was a star at the University of Michigan.  He was a star for the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League.  He was a star for the Family Research Council and he will be a star for our conservative values in Washington DC.

As conservative leaders it is our duty and responsibility to assist and develop young conservatives who can be leaders of our movement well into the 21st Century.  There will be as many as 100 new freshman Congressmen after the November elections.  West Michigan voters should take into consideration that Jay won't be just one of 100 Congressmen representing their interests and values.  He will be a leader on day 1 because of the platform he has already earned on the national stage.

Jay Riemersma will be a champion for the sanctity of life, the institution of marriage and the primacy of the family.  Jay has been an advocate of traditional values through his work at Family Research Council, and through his consistent witness in the realm of professional athletics.  Jay will be more than a vote on these important issues, he will be a winsome and effective leader.

Like many Americans, I'm deeply concerned about federal spending levels, increasing taxes, and the government's recent foray into the private sector.  Simply put, the Obama Administration is on a spending spree and eventually those bills are going to come due.  Congress will be faced with the question of whether to increase taxes or cut spending.  I know that Jay Riemersma will make the right choice and work to put our fiscal house back in order.

I am proud to endorse Jay Riemersma for Congress, and I look forward to visiting West Michigan this week to campaign alongside Jay and his family.

God Bless,                                                                                  

Sen. Rick Santorum