A Republic If You Can Keep It: Constitutional Foundations and Ballot Initiative Insights

On July 28, 2022, Kim Monson dedicates the first hour to Liberty Toastmasters Day, exploring Benjamin Franklin’s famous response to Mrs. Powell: “A republic, if you can keep it.” Dave Walden, president of Liberty Toastmasters North, joins in studio alongside calls from fellow members. The second hour features Natalie Menten analyzing Colorado ballot initiatives and Karen Levine discussing real estate market conditions.

Constitutional Republic Versus Democracy

Start listening at 1:47 – Hour 1

Dave Walden distinguishes the constitutional republic from pure democracy, explaining that the founding fathers intentionally created a system where the means, not just the ends, matter. He traces how confusion arose when even figures like Charlton Heston mistakenly referred to a “constitutional democracy” rather than a republic. Walden argues the American founding was unique in human civilization for formally recognizing the sovereignty and sanctity of individual rights. Jefferson’s Declaration, he notes, placed individual rights at the center of governance for the first time.

The discussion turns to modern challenges including COVID-19 restrictions and the war on fossil fuels. Walden characterizes the political attack on energy as a “war on civilization” since industrial progress depends on harnessing energy. He critiques electric vehicle mandates as premature, noting that Tesla’s profitability relies partly on regulatory credits from internal combustion manufacturers. The founding principles of individual sovereignty stand in contrast to centralized control over personal mobility and energy choices.

“This is the greatest civilization ever to appear on the surface of the earth. And it’s because, for the first time, the rights of the individual, the recognition that each of us ought to be sovereign in how we conduct our lives, was the purpose of government.”

Dave Walden, President of Liberty Toastmasters North

Colorado Ballot Initiatives and Tax Policy

Start listening at 71:29 – Hour 2

Natalie Menten breaks down the ballot measures heading to Colorado voters. Initiative 31, sponsored by Jon Caldara and Senator Jerry Sonnenberg, would reduce the state income tax from 4.55% to 4.4%. Menten explains how Democrats changed ballot language requirements to emphasize government revenue impacts, making future measures harder to pass. She also covers Initiative 58, which would decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms and establish licensed facilities for supervised use.

The conversation turns to two measures that would redirect approximately $1.3 billion annually from TABOR refunds. Initiative 63 would increase funding to the State Education Fund, while another measure would create a state affordable housing fund requiring local jurisdictions to increase subsidized housing by 3% annually. Menten warns this would turn governments into land developers competing against ordinary homebuyers. She urges listeners to examine their local government agendas for upcoming tax measures and participate in the blue book comment process.

“This measure builds public land trust. Now we have government competing against ma and pa to acquire land. The fact is, still, there are regular people trying to buy homes, and when we have government now competing against them, that is a very scary, very scary picture to me.”

Natalie Menten, Former RTD Director

Real Estate Market and Property Tax Concerns

Start listening at 62:37 – Hour 2

Karen Levine provides an update on metro Denver’s housing market. Despite rising interest rates, buyer activity remains strong with new listings closely matched by pending sales. The Fed’s recent rate increase had already been priced into mortgage rates, creating opportunities for buyers facing less competition. Levine notes that sellers shouldn’t wait for peak prices since markets can shift before they realize it.

Kim Monson raises concerns about rising property taxes driven by appreciation. Even homeowners on fixed incomes who don’t sell face higher tax bills without realizing gains. Levine confirms this squeeze affects first-time buyers and seniors alike. She recounts interviewing state legislative candidates who acknowledged the need for fairer property tax structures that don’t penalize residents simply because market values increased.

“Home ownership is the bedrock of their households. They understand the value. They understand that when you own a home, it creates stability and foundation for your family and then ultimately creates family wealth for you.”

Karen Levine, RE/MAX Alliance Realtor