By Robert E. Bauman, JD

Charles Darwin once wrote: “As for a future life, every man must judge for himself between conflicting vague probabilities.”

While Darwin was addressing the possibilities of Heaven and Hell, 2008 is a year that Americans may face very serious, not just vague, probabilities.

As bad as the so-called “conservative” Republicans in power have been, the Democrats could be even worse. If the Democrats take control of both the White House and the U.S. Congress, be prepared for all kinds of restrictions on your rights to relocate, live and invest abroad.

Tempered only by President Bush’s veto power, the current Democrat majority in Congress has already adopted some of these radical restrictions. And, after 2008 with a Democrat president, there will be no holds barred on what may become law.

So start thinking of offshore solutions to protect your assets, maximize your profitable investment possibilities and preserve your financial freedoms.

This House of Cards May Come Crashing Down

Also, consider the current depressing economic statistics in the United States. As 2007 came to a close, the estimated national debt of the United States was about US$9.2 trillion. With a population of 304 million, that averages out to each citizen’s share of debt at US$30,000 plus.

Then there is the continuing massive trade deficit. Since 2001, the trade deficit has doubled to more than US$700 billion. At best, these deficits will gradually harm all Americans’ future incomes. At worst, they could trigger a national fiscal crisis, which could accelerate and increase the economic damage.

Since President Bush’s first presidential term began in January 2001, the dollar has also dropped over 36%. Meanwhile the housing market is in the doldrums, mortgage fore c l o s u res are in the millions and rampant federal deficit spending continues unabated.

Plus, if the economy is in the dumps, massive Democrat deficit spending is likely to bring back rampant inflation reminiscent of the Jimmy Carter years — 18% or more.

It’s Not Too Late — But You Have to Act Now

At the very least you need to establish an offshore bank account for global investing. Consider creating an offshore asset protection trust (APT) or private family foundation.

Guard against further dollar declines by educating yourself about investing in other currencies to protect the value of your cash.

Interested in a second citizenship and passport? Start the process now, before Washington imposes any new legal restrictions.

Darwin’s theory of evolution in natural history offers us a useful example. Going offshore now is the natural and prudent course to follow for self-preservation. But you need to act now

A former member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Maryland, Robert Bauman now is a senior writer and legal counsel for The Sovereign Society.