I was never a particularly political person until the 2000 election. That year, because Clinton was out and two new candidates were running, I started to read and pay attention to their experience and qualifications. Neither Bush nor Gore really thrilled me, but Gore's experience and knowledge tipped me in his favor. It really seemed like a no-brainer.
Surprise - the 2000 election gave us George Bush. Those days and weeks of counting chads were unbearable. What the hell was going on? But in the end, Bush won. It was devastating to me. Who voted for this guy? How could you possibly? Cut to 2004. Here's John Kerry, war hero, senator, experience. Looking at Bush's 4 years, to me the choice was obvious. Alas, no - Bush again! Was there something about politics I was missing?
Now it's 2008 - two more fresh candidates, each with his own unique background. Which to choose? In 2000 I remember considering McCain - he seemed to be OK. Not today. No more Republicans, thank you. I'm not thrilled with how they've governed the last 8 years...not happy with the way things are now in this country...and I hate the way they campaign. To me - yet again - it seems like a total no-brainer: Obama. I like him. I like his positions. He's smart, a hard worker, not afraid to reach out to others. He can actually string words together to form coherent thoughts and ideas (a trait which is currently being used against him). He has a position paper on developing support systems for people with autism, a cause very near and dear to my heart. I think he'd do a good job. So he'll get my vote. And if this country again falls for another character assassination campaign, and votes for the guy they'd like to BBQ with, then we'll have to deal with more of what we've already been served. No thanks. I'll take the BLUE plate special, please!
