Judging by the performance of the Bush administration, one could reasonably conclude that conservatism consists of nothing more than perpetual war, endless deficit spending, consolidation of power in the presidency, and an unflagging hostility to due process of law.

However, a small but influential group of activists has stepped forward to defend a worthier conservative tradition, one focused on conserving constitutional government.

The American Freedom Agenda was created by former Nixon aide Bruce Fein, along with former Republican Congressman Bob Barr, David Keene of the American Conservative Union, and Republican fund-raiser Richard Viguerie.

Viguerie puts the matter plainly: ?[A] constitutional crisis ... has developed to alarming proportion under President George W. Bush.?

The AFA seeks to end the use of military commissions, secret evidence, warrantless wiretapping, and presidential signing statements. They seek the restoration of habeas corpus and other constitutional due process guarantees.

The group asks all presidential candidates to endorse their platform. So far only Republican Ron Paul has done so. It's a modest beginning, but we have to start somewhere.

Let us stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.