A religious conservative's appeal for Huckabee

I just read this open letter from Ps. Rick Scarborough, Founder of the religious conservative network Vision America. In it, Ps. Scarborough addresses many conservatives' hang-ups about Mike Huckabee's presidential campaign. If you're a "values voter," I urge you to consider the points below:

Some suggest that he has no foreign policy experience. Neither did Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, nor George W. Bush.

Some criticize his alleged "big" government approach to problem solving. I'd rather debate that issue with a candidate than abortion, same-sex marriage and marital infidelity.

Some criticize his redefining values as social justice. My response is as Christians and values voters, we must include social justice. Can you imagine Jesus ignoring the plight of the disenfranchised and downtrodden while going after the abortionist? This is not an either/or policy question.

Some criticize his positions on illegal immigration. I have listened to a maturing candidate whose stated solutions begin with secure borders.

Some criticize his positions on the environment. I would suggest that as stewards of God resources, there needs to be a fresh look at this issue, and while we may not agree on causes or solutions, I can assure you that citizens in this nation and many Christians in the pews will not be kind to a version of Christianity or politics that refuses to address this area of wide concern. Huckabee is forcing Republicans to discuss this issue, and that is healthy.