We often hear right-wing groups claim that liberals lack sufficient respect for the principles and rights enshrined in America’s founding documents. The protection of inherent freedoms, they argue, makes the United States exceptional among the nations. So we think it’s a bit ironic to see Texas Eagle Forum, Empower Texans and other groups on the right promoting an event that highlights part but not all of a key phrase of the Declaration of Independence.

In an email to conservative activists today, Texas Eagle Forum invites folks to attend the “LIFE, Liberty and Property Tour” in Dallas (Jan. 15) and Fort Worth (Jan. 16). Other far-right groups sponsoring the event are Empower Texans, Texas Home School Coalition, Grassroots America and Texas Right to Life. Attendees will be treated to “dinner and discussion with leading conservative groups, consultants, candidates and office holders.” (Exciting!)

Yes, we’re aware of the debates over the origins of the phrase “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration of Independence. But who needs highfalutin philosophical debates? We want to know what Texas Eagle Forum and its partner groups have against the pursuit of happiness. Maybe they think property is all that’s necessary to make one happy. Or maybe they just hate America.