Ron Paul: ‘We face a dependency on government largesse for almost every need’

Americans should place more confidence in themselves as “the ultimate solution is not in the hands of the government,” U.S. Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, said in his farewell remarks to Congress.

“Too many people have for too long placed too much confidence and trust in government and not enough in themselves,” Paul said, according to a transcript of his remarks.

“We face a dependency on government largesse for almost every need,” the outspoken Congressman said. “Our liberties are restricted and government operates outside the rule of law, protecting and rewarding those who buy or coerce government into satisfying their demands.”

Paul, a three-time candidate for president, demonstrated in his remarks his strong Libertarian streak and preference for free market over government regulation. Paul opted fore retirement over running for re-election after serving three stints in Congress.

“The internet will provide the alternative to the government/media complex that controls the news and most political propaganda,” Paul warned. “This is why it’s essential that the internet remains free of government regulation.”

Additional quotes from Paul’s remarks:

— “Everyone claims support for freedom. But too often it’s for one’s own freedom and not for others. Too many believe that there must be limits on freedom. They argue that freedom must be directed and managed to achieve fairness and equality thus making it acceptable to curtail, through force, certain liberties.”

— “Some decide what and whose freedoms are to be limited. These are the politicians whose goal in life is power. Their success depends on gaining support from special interests.”

— “During my time in Congress the appetite for liberty has been quite weak; the understanding of its significance negligible. Yet the good news is that compared to 1976 when I first came to Congress, the desire for more freedom and less government in 2012 is much greater and growing, especially in grassroots America. Tens of thousands of teenagers and college age students are, with great enthusiasm, welcoming the message of liberty.”