Here are a couple PDF files of the Party Platforms. It is sad that the candidates don't follow them. After all, the platforms represent what the members of the party stand for. #Mitt is not even in the ballpark.

Front page of Party Platform Comparison (PDF)

Party Platform Comparison pages 1 and 2 (PDF)

Party Platform Comparison pages 3 (PDF)

REPUBLICAN PRINCIPLES

The heart of our platform begins with a basic premise: From freedom comes opportunity and that the government exists to protect the freedom of opportunity in which each individual‟s creative ability can flourish.

We believe that the each person is responsible for his/her own place in our society. Individuals are encouraged by the Republican Party to work to secure and develop entrepreneurial enterprises without government imposed intervention, restrictions and meddling. We believe the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person‟s dignity, freedom, ability, and responsibility must be honored.

Government and the Governed

We believe that government should be limited to doing for people those things which they cannot do for themselves. The right to determine individual destiny should lie in the hands of the individual and that does NOT include Affirmative Action. Republicans believe governmental power and resources should be kept close to the people, through their state/local leaders, rather than centralized in distant big government. We believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.

Illegal Aliens

We believe that our border security is inadequate and we must rectify the situation. We do not believe that an illegal alien invader has Constitutional rights, or that anchor babies should be granted US citizenship.

Foreign Policy

We believe that peace and freedom can be protected only if America maintains a defense force strong enough to deter any and all aggressors. Republicans must turn away from the paternalism of the 50‟s and encourage other nations to shoulder the responsibility for their own problems. Republicans oppose unnecessary intervention in the internal affairs of other nations and stress helping our friends around the globe to develop their skills and strengths necessary for their own protection.

Economic Policies

We believe in the competitive free-enterprise system and in encouraging individual initiative which has brought this nation equal opportunity, economic growth and prosperity. Individuals must be free to use their talents and self-determination to develop entrepreneurial endeavors that facilitate achieving success and financial independence and that Capitalism is the key to both personal and national prosperity. Republicans believe that the only limits to an individual‟s opportunity to succeed are the limits of his own initiative and enterprise. We strongly believe government must practice fiscal responsibility and that individuals are entitled to keep more of the money they earn.

Government Spending and Taxes

We believe we should constantly strive to cut governmental spending and to eliminate costly, overlapping and unnecessary governmental pork spending. We believe that all tax increases should be voted upon by the people. Lastly, we believe that prior to a vote and that all bills MUST BE READ by both the House and Senate.

The Future

We believe in solutions, which are decided upon and implemented by the people themselves, through their locally elected representatives. Republicans believe that the solutions to America‟s problems lie in the greatness of the American people and we demand accountability of all elected officials and true representation of the people.

Global Climate Change

We believe man made global warming is a myth generated by the left, using flawed scientific models to cause the economic collapse of the global economies and usher in a socialistic agenda of global governance.

Finally

We believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into successful government practices.