I thought it was about time to start a thread on this topic, as it is sneaking into a lot of other topics on the board.
As the election nears, we are presented with a choice. To my mind the choice is an important one, and one that everyone, even those not of voting age, should take seriously. Young people can affect things as well: you can ask parents questions, tell them your concerns, you can get friends talking in school. It is about getting people invigorated and excited by the political process, as it is the only process we have by which we can affect our lives. This is about participation on all levels, not just the one where you go in and leave your hanging chad.
One is responsible for the ideas they hold and profess; and that is a big responsibility, especially when one's views and votes directly affects not only one's own life, but others around you. A vote is not to be cast, in my opinion, in self-interest.
I understand that this can be a very touchy and heartfelt subject for some. I know it is for me. So, I would hope we can keep the discussion civil, and generous, and open, rather than acidic. I will shut this thread down if it becomes too angry, or too personal. I hope it can be about learning the positions of people in the community, open and informative dissent, and clarifying one's own views. As I alluded to in another thread, the thing that takes the most courage, is changing your mind.
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This is not an election as in 2000 where we had two candidates vying for the same spot. There is an incumbent president, and the election is in many ways, a referendum on his performance, and the direction in which he is leading the nation. So, to start the discussion off, I will present the (NOW SHORTENED) article below as a starting point, the case against the status quo, which just appeared in The New Republic. It is solid journalism.
If anyone doesn't know this yet, full disclosure: I am a liberal thinker, though registered independent. I look forward to hearing and learning from what everyone has to say.
Ruggiero