Roger Williams: “Let me just ask you this: Are we capitalist, or are we socialist? I am glad to join my colleagues in denouncing…”

“Let me just ask you this: Are we capitalist, or are we socialist? I am glad to join my colleagues in denouncing socialism in all forms. Socialism is the greatest threat to our economy and freedom and must be defeated. Worldwide, socialism has led to the death of more than 100 million people, has forced thousands to flee in exile, and has turned prosperous nations into impoverished and hopeless nations. Socialism is not winning in America and has no place in our country. We are a nation of opportunity and incentive and because of those principles, we are a nation of hope where everyone can benefit. What sets America apart from the rest of the world is the drive to reach our fullest potential coupled with a free market economy. It is what makes us the greatest economic engine in the world. The opposite of socialism is capitalism, and I am proud to call myself a capitalist. Capitalism is about taking responsibility for what you create and making it even greater. It is about going from nothing to going to something. It is about taking risks and getting rewards, not government handouts or freebies. Capitalism has been the greatest force in the history of our world for lifting people out of poverty, and we must instill this value that we have in future generations. As a small business owner for 52 years, I represent Main Street America. Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, the implications of what socialism would mean for our businesses are alarming and scary.…”