Monday, 6th November, 2006
Election 2006
Well, it's that time again. The time when political candidates of all kinds do everything they can to get your vote. Ah, can't you just feel the excitement? Although the Democrats in general remain cautiously optimistic about possibly taking over control of Congress, I continue to be skeptical. Given the political attitude of late, a Democrat victory would fall under one of those "I'll believe it when I see it" categories. I do know one thing however - there seems to have been a lot more mudslinging this time around. I'm not completely opposed to a little negative advertisement, but there is a big difference in my mind between those made in good taste and those that are outright slanderous. It really seems like we've seen a lot more of the latter this year, from both parties. If tomorrow's voter turnout is low as expected, perhaps we should look to that as a possible reason.
A few days ago my best friend, Kevin, suggested putting together a Voter's Guide with our personal opinions and recommendations on each of the races in Georgia. The thought was that we could possibly help provide prospective voters with some important information as well as different views on each of the candidates. I thought it was a great idea. Although both Kevin and I are devout Christians, we live on pretty much opposite sides of the political spectrum. However, I truly respect his opinion, more so than just about anyone else, and I hope that my opinions are worthy enough to earn his respect as well. As it turns out, the Voter's Guide was really a wonderful experience. I had a pretty good idea going into it who I was planning to vote for. However, spending time to do the research to back up my opinion was extremely helpful, and I am really glad he suggested it.
I've included a link to the Voter's Guide for 2006 on this page. If you're lazy like me, I've included it below as well. Hopefully the information included will prove to be helpful when you make your decisions on who to vote for. After all, an uninformed vote is just as bad as not voting at all.
Wednesday, 8th November, 2006
A Challenge For Democrats
Regardless of how the race in the United States Senate eventually turns out, last night's election was obviously a huge victory for the Democratic Party. I was honestly a bit skeptical that the Democrats would be able to even take control of the House; after all, I've seen that song and dance before. But to take control of the House by a wider margin than expected, have the majority of Governors, and at least split if not take control of the Senate represents a monumental statement from American voters. A statement that a change in direction, both in domestic and in foreign affairs, was needed. A statement that corruption by any party simply will not be tolerated. And, at least in my own humble opinion, a statement that checks and balances needed to be re-established to keep President Bush's power in check.
However, fellow Democrats, now is not the time to sit and bask in the glow of victory. I have to agree with most political analysts that many voters were voting against Republicans more than they were voting for Democrats, that this was more about sending a statement to President Bush than wanting an ideaological change in Washington. Whatever the reason, the American people have graciously given us a chance to step up to the plate, and now more than ever we must deliver on our promises. We must show the American people that the Republicans do not have the monopoly on family values and morality, that there can be bipartisan solutions to issues instead of just power struggles, and that social programs can be good for this country when given a chance to succeed. We must help President Bush formulate a new strategy for the war in Iraq that does not simply involve cutting and running, while also pushing for peace before war via diplomatic solutions to future disputes. And most importantly, we must not focus more on keeping power than doing what we feel is right.
It may have seemed like the challenge for Democrats was to unseat the hold on Congress that the Republicans have held for the last 12 years. However, I believe the real challenge begins now. There will be millions of watchful eyes on Congress over the next couple of years. At stake is not only the future of our country, of our children, and of our relationship with the rest of the world, but also the very foundation of the Democratic party. If Democrats want there to be an ideological shift in this country, they must first deliver on their promises and show the people of the United States that they can make choices that are in the best interest of the people.
Democrats, you have been given your chance. Please don't screw it up now.