Election Time

I listened to an interview with a political candidate on the news the other night that caused me to stop and watch - I am not a television watcher, but I do keep an ear turned while I read.  The candidate was telling the reporter that she didn't know how to run against someone who she knew nothing about.  

When did elections become a contest of running against someone?  When a person runs for an office, they should be running only against themselves.  They should feel they have the qualifications for holding the office and the ability to represent their constituents in the best way possible.  Why do candidates feel they have to run against someone? 

The media takes the blame for smearing candidates and officials, but in reality the opposing candidates are the investigative reporters.  The candidates are the ones who find the dirt, research the records, and audit the accounts of those with the audacity to run against them for public office.  Wouldn't it make a difference if these same candidates met with the constituents and discussed the problems they are facing and to actually get their opinions on the issues of today.  That is only a dream!  That would mean a personal sacrifice on the part of the candidate - the candidate would actually have to do something and meet face to face with the constituents.  How ridiculous! 

Recently a local candidate came to "ask for" our votes.  I was coming out of the garden as he came toward the house.  I had met this man many times on previous occasions, but hubby said he wouldn't know him if he met him on the street.  I invited him in to meet my mate.  His response was he didn't have a lot of time and he had a lot of people to see.  Warning signs went up, but he came in met hubby and discussed a few issues.  My point is this - if hasn't time now to talk to us and tell us about himself and what he stands for, what will happen when he gets elected.  Will he have time to hear our opinion on the issues or our complaints on the service we are receiving?

Candidates, do you have time for a meeting on a campaign ad, but you don't have time to attend a one hour town hall meeting where you can meet face to face with the constituents of your area?

Candidates, do you have obligations that prevent you from speaking at a community committee meeting, but you can play golf with the lobbyist that is funding your campaign?

Candidates, do you listen to your constituents desires on issues or do you support the big business that donates money or gratuities to you and your political party?

Candidates, do you know what the issues are?

This year, vote smart!  Know your candidates or at least try to get to know them.  We will still make mistakes, candidates will still present themselves in the most positive way possible only to let us down.  Remember, the political party comes first and the constituents come second.  What does your political part support?  What is your political party's stand on the issues?  If the candidate is an incumbent, his/her voting record is easily checked as is his/er attendance record.

Yes, vote smart, but more importantly vote!

Happy reading!
Belle