Sep 05 2008
The Post in Which I Alienate 90% of You and Totally Confuse the Remaining 10%
I have yet to see Senator Obama’s nomination speech. This fact is sort of killing me inside.
I’ve seen the reaction; the tears, the hugs, the Rainbow Brite on crackedness* of a good deal of our nation. I was there, and I missed it. And YouTube has it in 6 different parts, except I can’t find all six.
Someone help, please. (updated to add…found it. Watching tomorrow.)
Anyway, I have to write the politics post and I haven’t seen his speech and that leaves me at a disadvantage because right now my head is swimming with RNC speeches and I don’t have enough DNC to balance it out. What’s a girl to do?
I call myself a Democrat for the same reason I say I’m from Philly. It’s just an easier way to explain a complex situation. I could tell you that I was born in Philly, raised and schooled in Delaware, but my brothers, cousins, grandmother and aunts lived in Philly and that I spent a good bit of every school vacation with my mom’s best friend and her daughter, Alisha, who felt more like a sister to me than my own one ever did. I could also explain how, if you drive south out of Philly, when you come to the Welcome To Delaware sign (which is 3 feet from the Thanks for Visiting sign) you’ll see a Hilton right there on the border. I lived RIGHT behind the Hilton, about a 5 minute walk from Philly. So, yeah, I claim them both, and now you are completely bored to death and unsubscribing from my blog because I just wasted all your time explaining something that I could have summed up with, “I’m from Philly! Go Rocky!”
With that, yeah; I’m a Democrat. Ish. I am not registered as a Democrat. I only was once, and that was because I had to be for something I was voting for, what I don’t know. I am a registered, expatriot Independent. Why? Because I don’t like enough about either party to pick a side. The middle seat in the car is always the funnest one to ride over bumps on anyway. I tend to agree much more with Democrats, but many of my dear dear friends are Republicans who’s opinions I totally value, and after talking politics with them, I don’t want any of their faces to melt off like that guy at the end of Raiders, so they’ve got to be alright people, eh?
I want to tell you a secret. The first time I ever voted in a presidential election, I voted for John Kerry. I am a terrible American. I wanted to vote for Al Gore, but dude….I was nursing a baby. I wanted to vote for Bill Clinton, but I didn’t even know how to. Before that, I wasn’t old enough. Before that, I lived in a box called radical right wing christian cultity, where you just didn’t vote, you just didn’t pay any attention at all to politics.
The one thing I can say about my breed of unamericanism? I never complained. I knew that by not casting my vote, I was taking away my right to bitch about the outcome. I stayed the heck out of it. I did bitch a little about the Gore thing (and by a little, I mean someone had to scrape my brains off the windows when my head exploded) but I used my Nursing Card. Got me out of Jury Duty that year, too. I cannot do any one thing and have someone attached to a boob at the same time. Not capable of it, never will be.
The thing is, I have just never felt so totally passionately about a presidential nominee to Get Up for him. I voted for Kerry, not because I thought he was the greatest thing to happen to American politics since Lincoln, but because I was in Anyone But W phase. And as much as W and I will never, ever be friends, I can admit there are a few things about him that I don’t abhor, and maybe even one or two that I admire. Not in his politics, mind you, but in his personal life.
I am of the philosophy that most Americans, when brought to the sacrificial alter that is the race of the presidency, have got to be at minimum decent guys. They’ve got to at least want something great for this country. (We’re going to except our current president from this conversation; I still can’t figure out what his point was.) I haven’t really stumbled across anyone that I can so villanize as to be driven to Rally The Troops against him *ahem* and I haven’t found one candidate so morally, ethically, or politically superior to another that I’ve felt the need to Rally The Troops in support of him. I prefer my quiet, private support of my candidate of choice, partly because I try to be quiet and private in my real life but mostly because I just don’t know what the hell I’m talking about, and tend to talk myself into some pretty deep holes when I get going.
This would be a good point to offer you a flash light and perhaps one of those rope ladder thingies if you’d like to start finding your way out of this particular hole.
All of this leads me to my trouble with this election. I really, really like Barack Obama. I LIKE that he’s sort of a newbie. I’ve been screaming for a president that wasn’t a politician for years. I like that he has big vision, that his dreams for America are large. I like that he is really rooted in picking us up by our bootstraps and pulling us forward. He’s a good man. He is a public servant. He gives a shit about you and me and that guy over there. I think he would be a fine, upstanding, noteworthy president.
And I don’t even think it should matter, but in my heart it does; I would jump up and down six ways to Sunday to see a black man finally take the seat at the helm of this nation. I honestly would cry with pride and joy over it for, like, his entire first year in office. I wish it wasn’t a big deal, I wish that weren’t the reality of America, but it is and I would totally be all SUCK ON THAT, KKK FUCKTARDS.
And then their is John McCain. And you know what? I really, really like him, too. I like that he’s dedicated his entire fucking life to serving his nation. I admire that even though no one in America deserves a Kit Kat break more than he does, he keeps trudging right along. Seriously, dude…point taken. Retire already. I love that he got totally kicked down by the current administration, and he quietly toed the line, and he kept his friends close and those guys closer, as the saying goes, and now he’s coming out slowly but surely and saying, “Um, you dudes totally fucked up. Watch me try to fix it. Who’s ya daddy, now?” I know everyone in North America will tell me I’m on crack, and that he’s in Bush’s pocket, but in my heart, I don’t believe that. I think that, given his chance, he would shine. I think he is invested in this nation with his entire heart and soul. He’s kind of proven already that he doesn’t really want anything much for that allegiance, that he’s not trying to fill some big, evil agenda. I think he would be a fine, upstanding, noteworthy president.
They both have platforms they are running on that I sorely disagree with. They both have viewpoints on issues that I am in complete agreement with. My problem is that I can’t decide which one makes me happier, or better yet, which one’s viewpoints I have more of a problem with. I have less of an issue with Obama, but on a bigger scale, and I have many, little, nagging concerns about McCain. I think I need a large scale and a duck.
When it comes down to it, I honestly think I could live with either one of them as my next President. I think they’d both do everything they could to make America better and stronger; even if I don’t personally agree with their definition of better and stronger, I think they’d be trying to do the right thing. I think they are both open to the idea of some bi-partisan input, which in my opinion is what this nation is in desperate need of. Maybe McCain will never pass Universal Health Care, but I live with Universal Health Care right now, and it’s got it’s perks to be sure, but there are definite issues, too. Maybe Obama will over tax the crap out of us, but yeah, I live in BRITISH COLUMBIA. I pay more in taxes than most of you will ever dream of, but I get something tangible for it, so there’s that. I dunno. I just know that one of these men really, really speaks to me, and the other one isn’t so far off, either.
Am I am democrat? Am I a republican? I don’t care. I am an American, and I am really hopeful for our country’s future, and I am hopeful that we as citizens can come together behind our commander-in-chief, whoever he ends up being, and work together to make America the kick ass country is deserves to be.
*Thank you eternally, Jane the Sane, for that little nugget.
**Before you go leaving me 8 million links to web pages telling me why either of these guys is god and/or the devil, I PROMISE you, I have researched them. A lot. Extensively. When I should have been doing laundry and feeding my poor, hungry children.
***PS: I am so not referring to Sarah Palin in here yet. It’s coming, I swear.
Comments close after 5 days. Because Spam sucks. 72 Comments to “The Post in Which I Alienate 90% of You and Totally Confuse the Remaining 10%”
I consider myself a pretty logical sort of gal…
Perfectly capable of weighing the issues on both sides and finding a little joy and a little despair everywhere (*little* definitely being a subjective term here). And as politics tend to be all about the lesser of two evils, it’s a trait that’s been working for me rather well over the years.
But, frankly, any party/affiliate/jack-in-the-box or kit kat deserving politician who feels that they have an inherent right to force their particular brand of morality on me via their ability to appoint a right-wing puppet to the Supreme Court isn’t what I would would consider the “LESSER” of anything.
Unless we’re discussing worth, of course.
‘Cause then, yeah, they totally got that in the bag.
(What I’m trying to say is that you have to do all the checks and balances and choose accordingly based on the issues that are most important to you.)
Judith Shakespeares last blog post..The Post Where Judith Calls the GOP "Bloody Brilliant" (Bring Your Ice Skates)
I read in a blog somewhere that some kid called McCain, “that old crazy guy” and now I can’t get that out of my head when I see him….
Generally speaking I’m a republican. And in the past have voted republican….yeah, I voted for dick head.
But this is the first election that I’m undecided because I LIKE both candidates. In the past I had trouble deciding because I didn’t. In past elections I felt like I was taking the eenie meenie minee moe approach to finding the lesser of two evils.
I really like both candidates this time around and won’t be disappointed of the outcome….whatever the outcome is.
I’ll still vote republican though.
=)
Hey Lady! WTF. I was sitting here reading your post screaming……”Where’s the fucking flashlight”! And then I saw this…………”I think I need a large scale and a duck”.
You pulled me out of the hole. I know that you know that I know exactly where that came from……..and what it means. Thank you! Oh and by the by…….I voted in my first presidential election in 1976…….for Jimmy Fucking Carter. I’ve voted in every election since………..but now I’m done with that shit. Get off of my lawn! Peace, Mike.
I’m a moderate, my party doesn’t have a candidate. I think I’m just going to have to pick the lesser of two evils. I worry that if I don’t show up at the polls, the other guy will win by a one vote margin. (In my mind, I hold all the powah!) It just sucks that I can’t vote for someone because I believe in what he is going to do, I’m voting for him because I dislike him less than his opponent.
In the first election I was able to vote in, I voted for Al Gore. (My husband and his family all gasp when I say that.)
In the last election, I voted for W. (Now the entire internet is gasping and throwing shit at me.)
Amaelijas last blog post..Pleasant Evening
You neither alienated nor confused me, so where’s my percentile?
I liked this post, dear. A. Lot.
I know who I am voting for and I really would like to see my guy win. LOL
I don’t really put myself into any categories…..but I like Obama. I really agree with what you said about how they both have things you like and dislike.
I find it hard to believe that someone can agree with 100% of anything either of them say.
(Except the hubs grandparents, I swear McCain could say “let’s have another holocaust” and they would be like ‘Oh yes! Good idea John McCain!”)
Js last blog post..Seriously? WTF?
I will be honest too.
I have never voted. Ever. I was young and not interested and the next time around I had a newborn and not interested. And now, this time around, I am so interested.
Why? I think it has a lot to do with the internet, for me. This has opened up many windows. I love clicking and reading about each candidate and watching videos. Why? Because I too really like both candidates. I am waiting for the debates where my questions will be answered. Hopefully.
ohmommys last blog post..Finding my place in the world, as an immigrant.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for putting into words what I’ve been thinking and feeling for the last two weeks. I really like both of them. I got chills during Obama’s speech last week and I had tears in my eyes at the end of McCain’s speech last night. They both move me. I don’t agree with everything on either candidate’s (or “party’s”) platform. I’ve voted in previous presedential elections, but have never been this involved in watching the conventions and learning more about the candidates. I think we Americans are going to be winners either way this time.
Ballerinatoess last blog post..College Cowgirl
I agree with you. There is stuff I like & admire about both and stuff I dislike about both and at any given moment I’d be willing to vote for the other guy just because one side’s supporters are really pissing me off with their blind fury toward anyone who doesn’t believe exactly as they do. Which side is which changes daily. I really do think that whoever wins they will be acting out of what they really think will be best for us. I may not agree with them, but I’m a pro-choice gun-owning witch in a military coven, I’m never going to agree completely with any politican.
I think someone should lob a scimitar at one of them and call it done.
I hope everyone gets that reference & doesn’t think I am advocating bumping off one the candidates.
Staceys last blog post..Wordless Wednesday
I meant “presidential.”
Hi Mr. Lady! Good post! I am a Republican. I don’t agree with everything, but at the most basic level of a philosophical approach to governing, I’m solidly Republican. I heart Palin so much I could kiss her, with tongue and everything. And I knew who she was before he named her. I wanted him to pick her and never thought it would happen, so I’ve been doing wiggly happy dances over here.
McCain is a good, plainspoken, honest man who is an American hero and is in this for the right reasons. And you very rightly point out that the Republican party has cursed his very existence for many many years. He thinks about what is best, not about party lines, and he’s given them a lot of grief. They got behind him as their nominee because they had to, but he represents enough challenge and change to the status quo they were not too thrilled about it. Like his momma said, “Those Republicans are going to have to hold thier noses and vote for him!”
Obama’s speech was flawless. Really, really excellent. You will LOVE it. I still think he’s a very pretty, vibrant, new bow wrapped around the same democratic package. And there I come up against my philosophy of proper governance.
I’m SO with you on the KKK FUCKTARDS and how FREAKING AWESOME it would be to have an African American president. It would ROCK. I wish he was a Republican because I would shed tears of joy and pride casting that vote.
As it is, I will vote for McCain, who I also believe in and trust completely, and now I get to vote for a woman for the first time in my life. And that makes me very, very happy.
Amy @ Milk Breath & Margaritass last blog post..Palin and A New Mommy War?
Your confusion? The beauty of democracy. How wonderful to have a choice, and for that choice to be between two people you actually like. Revel in the struggle to decide - so many don’t have that opportunity.
Now, it would appear that I’m going to be needing to make my own choice in a little over a month. I envy you your position. I have to decide amongst a group of people I don’t like. *sigh*
Latte Mommys last blog post..You’ve Got to Be Kidding Me
The discussion of politics is always a sticky widget. Inevitably there is always some wedge to be driven between people, and egos are likely to be bruised. As an absolute credit to your skills as a writer, you’ve presented a discussion that I don’t think anyone could find fault in.
I’ve always been a bit of an independent with more democratic leaning than anything. But, perhaps as part of being brought up in a right-wing, military household, I often see the other side’s view as well. I even share some of them. The problem with politics doesn’t come from those that can see the other side, but rather they come with those that toe the party line no matter what. Those are the truly frightening folk.
Wills last blog post..The one where I get in a big, moving, metal box.
What a great, honest post. I’m opting not to “go there’ on my blog or Twitter on account of I probably care more about losing readers than spouting off my beliefs. They are both good men. and Sarah Palin is a rock star.
Happy Hour Sues last blog post..Keyword Korner
And moreover, two great men once theorized that in the end it doesn’t really matter who you vote for, because in the end it comes down to only two choices… Do you vote for a Giant Douche or a Turd Sandwich?
http://www.southparkstudios.com/clips/154582/
Wills last blog post..The one where I get in a big, moving, metal box.
Not alienated or confused - I am right there with you. I like them both, there are certain issues they both have that I don’t agree with and a couple for each that I back 100%. It’s the first time I’ve encountered ANY election, going all the way back to student council, where I didn’t feel like it was a “lesser of two evils” choice, and I hardly know what to do with myself. But honestly, I think it’s making me a more active voter, I’m really reading and paying attention this time because I really do want to figure out who is the BEST, not who is not the worst. It’s exciting instead of depressing.
Maybe we should ask them both to calculate the airspeed of an unladen swallow and give the oval office to the guy who gets it right. :-)
Cuppa Jos last blog post..An Ode to my Best Friend
As much as this election is exciting, it is also very, very scary. Because our country is going to change, forever, in ways we have yet to understand.
I am very “purple” in my political views. I probably would consider myself a liberal, yet I have some very conservative views on certain topics. I would love to see an Independent run — and win! — but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen in my lifetime. So I’m going to go out in November and vote for the guy who scares me the least.
And hope he doesn’t fuck up the way the last president did (I never voted for Bush! I feel like that earns me some sort of bonus brownie points!)
Ok, here’s the thing and I can’t help but insert my asshole, I mean opinion, in here. John McCain scares me. He’s got a short temper, a record of severe flip-flopping for no other reason than to please whoever he is trying to win over (to be clear: there is a difference between changing your mind based on circumstance and changing your mind to make your party happy) and he’s old and has been in politics far too long. Yes, I know that shouldn’t matter, but then the question of Sarah Palin comes into play and that is frightening.
There was a time I would have voted for John McCain over any democratic nominee, but that time has passed. Since he is from Arizona, the spotlight has always been on him here and as I’ve watched him closely over these last eight years, I haven’t liked what I’ve seen. I think the maverick is gone and even if he has good intentions, he will bow down to his party to get another four years.
Plus, I don’t like the constant bashing of Obama instead of focus on issues. I didn’t watch the speech last night either, but I have not been impressed with what I’ve seen thus far.
Obama is not perfect, he has done some things that I don’t agree with, but I do believe his heart is in the right place. I don’t think McCain is evil, but I can’t help but think he will give us another four or eight years of what we already have.
I think the debates will really be the deciding factor for a lot of people. I am anxious to see how all four of them (pres and vp’s) handle pressure.
With that said, even if you were to come right out and say “I’m voting for John McCain”, I would still have mucho respect for you. I admire people that will take the time to research and make an informed decision. There is far too little of that in the voting booths these days.
You didn’t alienate or confuse me. So, THERE.
Thank you for writing what I’ve been feeling, but too inept to get out in words. I am the daughter of a Democratic father and a Republican mother. I grew up in a house where, to avoid arguments, we really didn’t talk much of politics. I’m still trying to figure out which side of the fence I belong on. But you’re right, the middle seat is the most fun.
Nells last blog post..Steinem on Palin
You have not confused or aliented me either.. I loved the post.. We are in scary times right now.. Right now I feel as a country we need change.. and regardless of who I am voting for if something does not change as a nation we are going to continue to fail. My kids need change. It is not even about me anymore..it is the world they are growing up in right now that is in complete chaos.. so I am praying that somehow someway we can be pulled out of this mess.
Kims last blog post..Slowing Life Down
Same here, in that I like things about BOTH sides, and I dislike things about both sides. But my brains are telling me McCain, and I haven’t figured out why yet.
I have a lot of reading and research yet to do!
Dear Mr. Lady:
There was absolutely no need for all of the disclaimer and rope ladders and shit. I have been waiting for someone to put into words everything I’ve been thinking and feeling about this election, and now that you did I am going to print out this post and read some excerpts to my hyper-liber in-laws and my ultra-conservative immediate family and be all, “suck on THIS moderate point of view, bitches!”
Now I just have to figure out who to vote for. Which sucks, because this means that as much as I generally try hard to stay ignorant of things like “facts”, I will have to do some extra homework on this decision.
manager moms last blog post..Dear Keanu,
This is a great post. I do not consider myself a Republican or a Democrat. I’m totally against voting with a party just because. I’m always one of those undecided voters that makes a decision at the last minute based upon research and listening to what candidates have to say.
There are things I admire about both Obama and McCain, but there are also things that disgust me about each. So following both Conventions, I still find myself somewhere with no clear lean towards either one. I will use the next 60 days to research both and decide who I want to be my President.
Great post. I agree with you on a lot of it, except the part about McCain not being in Bush’s/Rove’s pocket. I think he was on his own until 2000 and push polling killed a piece of his soul and he decided what he needed to do to become president and that was suck up in a big gigantic huge ass way. He just proved it again with his choice for VP. He wanted Lieberman or Ridge and spent 2 months checking out these people *he already knew.* The bosses said no way, not conservative enough, and he grabbed someone he knew for 15 minutes. He has risked the security of our country to appease them. No way no how that is the old John McCain.
Aimee Greeblemonkeys last blog post..We’re a little groggy, not to mention goofy, in the morning.
War. No.
My biggest issue.
And of course, I’m as liberal as they come on civil and social issues. As far as fiscally - I don’t believe that the GOP as it currently stands gives a fuck about the average American household, or understands what it takes to survive in it.
Marias last blog post..Hilarity @ The Right Wingers’ Expense
I am abstaining from political discussion of any kind for the next little while. My 14 year old son told me I am going to hell because I am voting for Obama. It gets a little old. But I have something on my blog for YOU!
Koris last blog post..Getting Some Love
That actually makes a lot of sense, this was a great post.
Jainas last blog post..Falling Behind
If only politicians could reason so well. Mr. Lady … you can be on my ticket any time.
Of course, I need to register to vote first. ;-)
Oh I forgot the most important part: Dude, I live in Chadds Ford!!!!!!
Happy Hour Sues last blog post..Keyword Korner
This is really well written… it touches on a lot of things that I (and I think a lot of other people) are thinking. And I would rather be able to point out the positives of both of them than to actually hate them both!
skinny fat chicks last blog post..will _____ for food
Yeah, both good guys!
I’d want to party with McCain, and have coffee with Obama.
Today’s the first time I’ve read you…. I’m a Democrat. Kind of. I guess. Yeah, definitely more of a Democrat than a Republican. Love Obama. Like McCain. And I really, really like what you wrote. Thanks!
Teresas last blog post..Becoming a biped and other horrors
I might as well have typed that entire post myself, only I wouldn’t have done it so eloquently, and there probably would’ve been at least one reference to poop.
I’m about as liberal a Catholic as you can get, so let me just say that I DEFINE conflict in this election. I want to move to Canada and marry you so I don’t have to worry about voting (though that would clearly be against my religion).
Vote Green!!
If they are running a candidate!!
Which they might not be!!
I don’t know because I’m not paying attention!!
Backpacking Dads last blog post..It was an honour just to be nominated
Isn’t it great that nobody comes storming into your home after making these blog posts with black boots and gas masks! We’re so freakin lucky to be able to think, talk, argue, dissect and chose whomever or whatever we want. Just sayin’ about the whole liberty and democracy stuff!
Awesome post! That said, we get the person we deserve. I personally don’t think America deserves George Bush, but somehow we elected him. The question is; is our country ready for Obama or McCain?
Palin is turning the blogosphere hot hot hot! She’s freakin Buster Poindexter with the monumental pompadour running around the streets with crazy musicians and a 24-7 party! Can we possibly get enough of her?
good on you for saying what you think & feel. personally, i like one more than the other - but i’ll just be glad to see the shrub GONE. :) nice post.
enders last blog post..#RNC08
I think you are very honest and your ability to express your ambivalence and conflicted feelings is really compelling. Thanks for that.
But I’m with Aimee up there. McCain made a veep selection using a marketing strategy, not a political one. Mr. Middle-of-the-road, in his first executive decision, went straight for the nearest evangelical candidate.
It’s not surprising considering he sold his soul eight years ago, and is now working with the Rove attack team that slandered his own family in the SC primaries in the most horrible, horrible ways. If you’re a true reformer, you say screw you, I’m not playing that game. Go away Rove, I’m changing the game. But he didn’t.
I actually like Obama because he didn’t pick Clinton. It would have been a guaranteed winning move, but it would have hindered his ability to govern. That’s brass balls. That’s the idealism and vision and foresight I want in a president and that our country so desperately needs right now.
The one quote that really stuck with me from Obama was something to the degree of “We should spend our time thinking why we should be elected…not how we should get elected.” To me that says it all.
Mom101s last blog post..Number of days after my children go away that I burst into sobbing, heaving hysterical tears after hanging up the phone from them:
Alls I am sayin is put a sign for either one on your lawn and confuse the shit of the already confused BC’ers…
The fact of the matter is nothing is black and white. And especially NOT politics. I lean more Democratic for many reasons but I have always been a middle-of-the-road-kind of gal myself and can see both sides on many issues.
Frankly though, J.M. scares me. And the real guy behind all of this (Rove) scares me even more. If anyone thinks that “W” has been truly been the president for the last 8 years they are sadly mistaken. And I feel that we will simply be led down the same path… No thanks.
Elaines last blog post..Adventures in Babysitting
If this was 2000, and it was coming down to Obama and the McCain from that halcyon year, I’d be as torn as you are. Unfortunately, I have to stand on the side of the people who say that McCain has sold out. He’s in his twilight years, he has one more shot, and by God, he’s going to do it this time or die trying. Even if that means picking a VP he doesn’t want. Even if that means voting for things he really doesn’t believe in (or didn’t used to, anyway). Even if that means reigning in his truly maverick spirit and toeing the party line, because that’s the only way to win. I used to really like that guy, but somewhere between the South Carolina primaries in 2000 and 2008, he decided he’d rather lose his soul than lose an election.
Missives From Suburbias last blog post..Politics Schmolitics
That pretty much sums up how I’ve been feeling on the hole thing. I’m equally torn and from an ultra-conservative background too. I stopped voting because politicians either suck or… hmm, what’s a word that rhymes with suck?
This election seems different, but I can’t tell if it’s because these are actual, viable candidates, or after almost a decade of George W, the Gieco Cavemen would look good doing the job.
In any case, I’ve got a great deal going on in my life that will be impacted by whoever eventually wins, so making an intelligent choice will be paramount in my ability to complain like a mo-fo should my candidate not win.
Thanks for articulating a great post.
CK Lunchboxs last blog post..CLARK KENT’S INBOX September 5 (LATE EDITION!)
I have no educated point to make except I love the fact that you threw in the phrase “KKK FUCKTARDS” to point out one of the biggest reasons why Obama MAY have a problem getting elected. It sucks and it’s not right. But GO YOU for having the balls to say it. And for pissing off a bunch of inbreds in hoods and white robes.
I felt the same way when it was Barack vs. Hilary. Liked them both, felt sad to have to vote against one of them, kinda pissed in general that I had to make that choice because I was an Edwards girl from the start (apparently, not the only one).
Now I’m Obama all the way, I don’t hate McCain, but I’m essentially a one-issue voter (CHOICE! CHOICE! CHOICE!) and not afraid to admit it.
Of course, there’s always the independent candidate - Bob Barr. Say it out loud and you’ll get why it’s funny.
bejewells last blog post..A Conversation with Myself from Five Years Ago - The Beginning
This was an excellent post and I totally get what you are saying.
I am voting with my heart and a hearty helping of my beliefs and I do think either man would do a good job. America needs some changin’ and either way the votes swing I will love my country!
missy wigginss last blog post..Is there such a thing as a Liberal Conservative?
I appreciate hearing these kinds of posts because I want to understand other people’s political leanings and perspectives. I was raised a Democrat and became even more liberal during my UC Santa Cruz days. I watched the DNC and the RNC because I want to be informed even though I have never voted Republican. While I heard a few things in McCain’s speech that didn’t outright freak me out, I am still backing Obama. Not because he is charismatic (he is) or because he is some sort of political rock star but because what he stands for is most in line with what I stand for. Gay marriage, pro-choice, the environment, etc. - those things are high on my list.
sizzles last blog post..A New Opportunity
Very well put…and I’m in the same boat. ish. :) I like when you talk about politics. Or, anything. :)
Ashleys last blog post..The Infertility Series - Part 3
Wow. That was some post. I wish I trusted McCain the way you do. I’d feel better. His choice in Governor Palin has me beside myself. Her views couldn’t be more opposite of mine.
I don’t have that faith. I watched his speech last night and thought much what is he talking about. I feel he’s too highstrung and out of touch.
one mom’s opinions last blog post..Labor Day Recap
Cheer Cheer! This was a great post (thanks for not just bashing Palin). I like the “idea” of Obama, but being a Fiscal Republican (if I got to vote in a primary I would just be a libertarian) I have a get the hell out of my house attitude towards gov’ment. I am also harshly against public (read: poorly administrated, abused, failed) programs. (Headstartfor example ROCKS! If all my money went to paying for this type of success I would bitch a lot less come April) I have to vote for McMcain, but Palin made the ticket for me this year, I go to the polls with my head held high. =)
i think obama has come this far based on the work he has done, how he has steadily moved forward.
and even though i wasn’t a clinton fan, i know that hillary is a trailblazing woman as
sometimes almost “making it” is better than making it in history. she wasn’t afraid to stand shoulder to shoulder to men and say, dammit, deal with it.
as long as obama doesn’t take us into war and gives us good healthcare, jobs, i’m listening.
palin….don’t know of her, not really feeling the love there. am sure she has good credentials, not sure if they are good enough to be VP and who knows, a shoe-in president. just not seeing that.
no more four years of bush! that’s all i want.
Riddle me this, Batman:
I am a decorated military wife.
I am a active in the church.
I am the daughter of shotgun wed teenaged parents (I waited until I was 30 and married).
I married a guy from my high school.
I’ve always lived in “Red” states.
I own a gun and an SUV.
I have voted every chance I got since age 18 - even in elections where every race has unopposed candidates. I can’t help myself. I love this country!
And STILL, I’m one bleeding heart pinko commie diaper baby lefty liberal mo-fo walking the liberal walk. You think I don’t have a touch of split personality? Honestly, it all makes total sense in my brain.
rebeccas last blog post..Glue Batik with Family
I read over all the comments after your intelligent post, and it occurred to me why this election is such a confusing one: it doesn’t seem like anyone is voting for any particularly relevant issue. Obama is a newbie. He offers hope. He “cares” about people. He made a good speech. McCain is mean. He sold out. He made a cynical choice for FV. He’s old. All of these are valid discussion points, but no one really comes out and talks about the big issue: who will be the best President.
I am a Democrat. I tend to vote Democratic. My ideals are more Democratic. But, I would like Obama to seem more substantial. I think too many people are carried away with emotion, which will either hurt Obama in the election or create disappointment when he actually has to run the country and raise everyone’s taxes for all the social programs.
Neils last blog post..God Loves this Blog
I’ve gone through so many incarnations of my political self. I was a “Yellow Dog” democrat (My first election I voted for Mike Dukakis, for whatever good it did)
I’ve since moderated my stances in a lot of ways. IE I don’t really believe in the repeal of the 2nd amendment but I do agree with full ballistic fingerprinting and full accountability for owners (someone gets shot with your gun, you’re going to jail).
I’m not happy about abortion but I don’t think it’s my decision. (Libertarian leanings here?)
That being said I’ve voted on the “D” side of the ticket in every election? Why? Because I’m intelligent enough to know that until we fix our voting system, we live in a two party world, and in every election there may not have always been someone I wanted to vote for, there was *ALWAYS* someone I wanted to vote against.
Bush Sr., Dole, Bush Jr.
McCain was an interesting scenario. In 2000, if the republicans had put him up against Al Gore, I would have been tempted. He really WAS a maverick. Since then, in an effort to make him more electable in their eyes, they’ve moulded John McCain into a cookie-cutter republican. He supports the president blindly, even when what the president is doing would make an idiot go “Sorry man, that’s too stupid for me.”
McCain’s choice of VP is much more about politics than about ability. He chose a candidate with Breasts to try to appeal to the Hiliary democrats, even though beneath the surface this woman is nothing but illiterate trailer-trash.
Oh well - I guess I’m voting Democrat again.
Jesses last blog post..What would Hillary do? - An Open Letter to Hillary Democrats.
Oh - and yes, he (McCain) had a much better reputation as a stand-alone guy and a maverick before he let the Whack-job right and the RNC Nix his first *FOUR* choices for VP.
He’s no longer in control.
Jesses last blog post..On Football:
I just loved this post! I had to comment.
Seriously, I think 90% of America agrees with what you are saying. I’ve been with one party my whole life and if I voted for the other I fear my dead ancestors would come out of their graves and haunt me ;)
I like both though. And I am hopeful for a less ugly campaign. I hate ugliness.
You are gaining more readers with this. Trust me :)
Lisa@verybusymomwith4s last blog post..A Lone Star Tradition
Heehee - loved this post. I agree with it too. Like, pretty much the whole thing.
I have a huge problem with Obama talking about cutting taxes for gazillions of people that don’t pay them because of EIC (earned income credit) or deductions. That just means a bunch of low income folks will get a smaller tax return at the end of the year because less was taken out of their paychecks. Many low income americans rely on that tax refund to catch up on bills. So…I call shennanigans on that. LOL I know there are more issues but listening to him talk about that every speech and knowing it’s b.s. makes me question the rest of what he says.
For me I guess it’s a moot point. I live in Illinois, it’s going to go to Obama, and I’m voting Libertarian (GO BARR) because if enough of the people who want a real change vote third party they can get federal funding and be included in debates and we can have a real third party choice. You know, that crazy “democracy” thing. Madness.
Cause under it all, Obama and McCain aren’t that different. Republicrats should just be one damn party and stop making us think we have a real choice. LOL Because the difference is that if you vote Democrat you get big government and if you vote Republican you get big business. Who do you want taking care of you at the end of the day? (Personally I wouldn’t rely on anyone but myself to get me through my golden years.)
I need to post more on my blog about what I’m thinking so I don’t leave novellas in your comments section.
jennydeckis last blog post..Finance Fridays Bonus: Student Loan Rehabilitation
Not only do you not alienate me but you make me admire you more. I am not voting Dem or Rep and if I say that these days there is “the look” from people. The look changes depending on which side I’m talking to. But both will look at me as though I’m single handedly handing the election to the enemy by “throwing my vote away”. Whatever.
There seems to be this venom spewed all over the place. If you believe this or that the other side is convinced you’re trying to damn us all. And there’s never a middle that believes that someone believes what they do because they do. Not because they hate you or your ideals. And it’s probably the tone of most conversations that puts people in that frame of mind.
I’m a prolife person who believes stem cell research hasn’t been given the funds it deserves. I’m a person who believes every American should be allowed to marry who they want when they want but I do understand why churches or the like won’t allow it in their building. Hell, I’m not gay and I got turned away from quite a few churches when I went to get married because I lived with my groom. And I got it. It was their rules their organization and that’s that. America is not their building, though.
I guess all I’m saying is I’m never going to find the one candidate for me so I just trudge along and hope for the best while hoping that maybe one day there will be more than two choices.
I completely respect Obama. He’s been classy and intelligent, kind, insightful, etc this whole campaign. And McCain, I have to respect on principal. With what he’s given to this country with his service, time and health etc. I just do. And that’s me. And I’m sure that there would be tons to come behind me to gladly spew “I don’t have to. He’s blah blah blah.” on both candidates. Which, you know, whatever. It is what it is.
As usual, loved this post. I’ll be starting your fan club soon.
WhenSheWorePonytailss last blog post..This here apple is what we call a symbology
Now, tell us how you really feel!
Did you see the video Maria posted a few days ago from The Daily Show? That’s pretty much my view of Republicans. They talk out of both sides of their mouths, and don’t care about anything other than their party winning. I used to think more of McCain, but too much has happened in the past few years for me to be convinced he wouldn’t stick to party lines.
Does this mean I think the Dems are perfect? Of course not. But the sad part of our system is it only seems to work with 2 sides. I’m picking a side. That doesn’t mean I won’t call them on it when I think they’re full of shit, but I’ll do it as a member of the family.
Now aren’t you glad you opened it up for all of us to bare our political souls?
Aprils last blog post..I Need a Countdown Ticker
Forget thee not: Christ dined with republicans and sinners ;)
jordans last blog post..The I-Liff (or, what most couples need)
Well written. And well said. I know who my guy is and why as well as who isn’t and why. To each their own - it makes the world go ’round!
Darcies last blog post..I’m Over It.
Awesome post! You did a great job explaining yourself. I know exaclty who I am voting for already. No matter what.
I am a Republican all the way and know in my heart that McCain is the one I agree with most. I just wish politics could be the way your post is.
Most people in this election want to fight you know? I think we should eb able to discuss our views and learn from one another. I am not a political expert by any means and I DO learn by listening to others.
Thank you for writing a good post!
Excellent post. I’m neither alienated nor confused.
Everyone knows my politics, but your post is the first thing I’ve read from someone in the middle. I really appreciate it.
As a very special present to you, I’m going to make a confession here that has never before seen the light of the internet.
The first president I voted for was Bill Clinton.
Yes, this from a gun-toting Republican. Don’t tell anyone, okay?
Jennifers last blog post..A Moose In Every Pot
I swear to God I love you. You just said everything I would love to say, but I have a very limited vocabulary for an English major so it usually just comes out, “frud mek lala!!”.
K8spades last blog post..He’s Still Just Joey From the Block
I’m severely allergic to the entire GOP slate (not very conflicted, nooo), but you do what you gotta do.
I think I love you, Mr. Lady. Go check out the picture I drew depicting the election year vitriol on my blog.
kats last blog post..You Want Some of This? Too Bad!
Ooooooh, so you’re the reason Gore lost. It’s okay I still love you… ;-)
Rees last blog post..Maid of Honor - Past in Polaroids 5
I don’t mind McCain but I sincerely believe we’d be in for at least another four years of the same old W crap. And also? I watched the RNC too and what made the biggest impression on me was the negativity. It was in many respects a mean-spirited convention. That really bugged me. I wasn’t going to vote republican anyway but I certainly wouldn’t after seeing that.
Chriss last blog post..Palin Comparison
I’m glad you wrote this, because I feel the same way. No matter how many times I talk about it or write about it or THINK about it, I’m still stuck in the middle (and I can’t get out of it). We have 8 weeks left and in that time, I need to make my decision, but I think this is going to be a close one!
Missies last blog post..How I became an asshole…
Sweet! I am so totally agreeing with you right now!
Kristas last blog post..My Kid’s Classic!
[...] it. In any case. McCain just isn’t a choice for me. If he pulls off a win, I’ll read Mr. Lady’s words on him over and over and get on with things. I was really hoping he’d pick Minnesota [...]