Presidential Debate: Time to Be Informed

The Presidential Election is the only election that matters to some people.  These people believe that if they vote for the right candidate, their problems will be solved over night.  That is not realistic.  They fail to realize that one person, no matter his political affiliation, will not be able to solve all problems.  Midterm elections, which historically have lower voter turnout than presidential elections, are equally, if not, more important to the political process.  Setting partisan views aside, problems cannot be solved without cooperation between Democrats and Republicans.  Some politicians find themselves so engulfed in voting along party lines that they forget about the well being of the Nation.  Our current system of government is imperfect.  But, ideally, when all three branches of government work together, problems can be solved.  That said, elections for judges (Judicial Branch), police chiefs (Executive Branch), and senators (Legislative Branch)are as important to the system of government as the presidential election.  We must remember that the President makes decisions affecting national and foreign policies, not local policies.  So, if you have a problem with your local school system, your local elections are far more important. Learning the political process will help each of us make informed decisions.

Voting is a fundamental right which basically means that each person under the jurisdiction of the United States is entitled to vote.  That said, there have been many laws and occurrences throughout history that infringed upon, or even terminated, a person’s right to vote.  Of course, the right to vote can be lost or suspended.  During slavery, African American men and women were unable to vote.  During the Jim Crow era, state, and local governments passed laws that prevented African Americans from voting as well. Although we are in 2012, there is a raging debate across the country regarding voter identification laws that could potentially lead to the disenfranchisement of large segments of the population.  Some states have passed laws which require that all people who plan to vote must have valid, state issued identification cards or drivers licenses.  Supporters of the voter identification laws contend that its implementation will help deter voter fraud.  Those against the laws believe its impact will mean mass disenfranchisement of minorities, senior citizens and others who may not be able to obtain a valid identification.  Just recently, a judge in Pennsylvania issued a preliminary injunction that halted enforcement of a voter identification law until after the November elections.  I believe this issue will continue to rage across the country well after the November 6 election.

Being informed about the candidates’ platforms and political ideologies is an important step.  As citizens, we must make sure our elected officials are accountable for their words and actions.  I am a firm believer that a person can tweak a message depending on his audience to disguise his true beliefs.  Politicians are gifted speakers and have the ability to do it.  But, I also believe that a politician’s voting record is something that cannot be changed; it paints a much clearer picture of the politician and his views.  Take some time and check the voting records of both presidential candidates.  Hold them accountable and see if they have been practicing what they have been preaching.  Be informed!

On October 3, 2012, the first Presidential Debate will take place between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney.  I am extremely excited about the event.  I am interested in seeing how each candidate responds to tough questions.  Although the presidential debate is a major event, I do not think it will impact the majority of the country who already knows who they will vote for.  However, I think both candidates have an opportunity to sway undecided voters and especially those residing in battleground states.  Regardless of your political affiliation or ideology, voting is a fundamental right and many people have given of their time, energy and lives to ensure that we have the right to vote.  Be informed and let your voice be heard.

 

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