During the past decade, the assault on our liberties in Colorado – fueled by liberal Democrats pouring millions into our state elections – was made possible by a lack of leadership. Many weak, so-called Republicans who have retreated from battle time and time again due to self-preservation have maintained their positions at the expense of liberty and freedom for future generations.

Leadership is an action, not a title. I learned this as a young Platoon Leader in Sadr City, Iraq. In order for me to lead, I had to be able to depend on others to fulfill their roles – to depend on their

courage, judgment and discernment. I also had to trust that they would have my back during difficult times. The same is true in politics: We must depend on others to do our job to lead effectively.

However, without courage, politicians will never attempt to do anything worthwhile. Although they may base their campaign messages on the controversial issues of the moment to draw people to the polls, most don’t follow through. Because the vast majority of politicians across our state are in “safe” districts, and tend to be a lock for future elections after winning their primaries, they fear being on the record for anything controversial so they can coast to an easy re-election.

When it comes time to lead and act on those controversial issues, most of these politicians will dodge the responsibility as quickly as possible. In fact, many even blame the voter for their lack of action, saying things such as, “If we had a strong majority, we could accomplish what you want,” or “I don’t think the public is educated enough at this point to move forward on that issue.”This is not leadership: This is passing the buck.

In the Army, we defined leadership as providing purpose, direction and motivation to accomplish the mission. My mission as a Colorado state representative is to advance the cause of liberty, and this can’t be done without the help of others. So what happens when the “others” we depend upon lack the courage to stand and fight for liberty?

I got into this business to advance liberty – not for the personal parking space my hail-damaged KIA occupies, and not for the title of “representative.” Instead of ignoring this problem and pretending it doesn’t exist, we must lead with the courage of our convictions and take action, regardless of our political party.

Without a team of individuals who are committed to freedom and liberty, the Republican Party has no brand. Without a brand, we have no way of winning elections and advancing liberty. I believe this is why I heard over and over while knocking on doors during the most recent election that “there is not a difference between the two parties.” Thankfully, I believe we are steadily branding ourselves as the party of liberty and individual rights once again.

However, I will always keep an eye out for those among us who are willing to jeopardize this brand. All Republicans in Colorado should do the same, vet your candidates, vote your conscience and protect the brand. Without the brand, the assault on liberty will continue, freedom will not ring, and future generations will have to fight a much more difficult battle.

First elected in 2014, Patrick Neville is a Republican representative for HD 45, which includes Castle Rock and Castle Pines.