The recent revelations that the IRS has been profiling those opposed to Washington policies and then targeting them for additional scrutiny should serve as a frightening wake up call for every American. Constitutional rights are not limited just to those Americans the government prefers. We cannot have a federal government, with all its enormous power, pursue people and organizations with differing political or policy opinions from those in control. That kind of activity corrupts the very foundation of American freedom and unfortunately, is becoming more common place as Washington increases its power over the law abiding people it is supposed to be serving.

Catherine Engelbrecht has been waiting for nearly 3 years to receive 501(c)(4) approval from the IRS. During this time the IRS has asked her to submit nearly 300 responses and documents. Her group has been contacted by the FBI six times. Her personal and business tax returns have been audited. Her business has experienced multiple surprise visits from OSHA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Undoubtedly one of the most shocking aspects of this issue is that Catherine is not an isolated case. Dozens of other applicants have all suffered the same harassment. You can raise awareness and encourage oversight by sharing Catherine’s story.

You can also share your own experiences with the federal bureaucracy here.