It is an article of faith among many that some of the most patriotic Americans are immigrants.  Leaving one's country and culture in search of a better life has a way of clarifying the reasons for making such a consequential choice.  The freedoms and opportunities we enjoy as native-born citizens, but can sometimes take for granted, are often even more deeply cherished by new Americans in their adopted homeland.  Trading up carries with it a reminder of what one has lived down – and can be all the more meaningful for it. In a similar way, it may also be true that the most passionate adherents to political ideology, or a candidate embodying such views, are those who have cast off an opposing party or politician they found wanting.  Nothing brings into high relief the folly of one's voting choices like deep disillusionment with the elected officials or party in whom one has put one's trust. Like the immigrant, then, for whom America matters...(Read Full Article)