
on the fence
A place for fellow baby boomers who are struggling with the state of the nation
how the world sees us
The process of voting is profoundly personal, involving a deep consideration of values, policies, and visions for the future. One aspect that sometimes garners attention is how foreign countries perceive a particular candidate. While it's crucial to prioritize your own country's needs and perspectives, the international viewpoint can offer valuable insights that might influence your decision-making process. This essay explores why and how these foreign perspectives should be factored into your voting decision.
the importance of a candidate’s service
Military service has long been regarded as a mark of honor, sacrifice, and dedication to one’s country. This perception extends into the political arena, where veterans often leverage their service history as a testament to their leadership abilities and commitment to public service. However, whether a history of serving in the armed forces unequivocally distinguishes a candidate as more qualified for political office is a nuanced question that merits thorough examination.
the concept of a “normal” family
The concept of a "normal" family is often subject to cultural, social, and personal interpretations. Historically, a "normal" family has been envisioned as a nuclear family with two heterosexual parents and their biological children. However, contemporary society recognizes a broader spectrum of family structures, including single-parent households, blended families, same-sex parents, and extended families living together. The question of whether growing up in a "normal" family makes one a better candidate for any role—be it political, professional, or personal—warrants a nuanced exploration.
does a president need to be a parent?
In political arenas, a candidate's personal life often becomes a point of scrutiny and debate. One such aspect is whether having children makes an individual a better candidate for public office. This issue touches on several dimensions, including empathy, understanding of family issues, relatability, and perceptions of responsibility. While having children can indeed offer certain advantages in a candidate's profile, it is not a definitive measure of their suitability or capability for public office.
considering gender in voting
In modern democracies, the question of whether a voter's decision should be influenced by the gender of a candidate is a subject of significant debate. This essay will explore various perspectives on this issue, examining the arguments for and against considering gender in voting decisions.
should negative campaigning… work?
Negative campaigning and name-calling are pervasive elements in the political landscape. These tactics, designed to cast opponents in a negative light, raise a critical question for voters: Should such methods influence one's voting decision, or do they indicate that a candidate has little to offer substantively?
single-issue voting
When considering whether a voter should make a decision based on a single plank in a candidate’s platform, it is essential to recognize both the potential benefits and drawbacks of this approach. The complexity of governance and the multifaceted nature of political issues suggest that a more holistic evaluation may be prudent, but there are circumstances where focusing on one key issue can be justified.
voting along party lines: yea or nay?
Voting along party lines—casting a vote for a candidate solely based on their political party affiliation—has long been a common practice among many voters. This approach simplifies the decision-making process, providing a sense of consistency and loyalty to a political ideology. However, this method of voting can be problematic for several reasons, potentially undermining the principles of informed citizenship and effective governance.
the perils of staying home (and not voting at all)
In democratic societies, voting is not just a right but a fundamental civic duty that underpins the very structure of governance. Despite this, many individuals consider abstaining from voting when they find themselves disillusioned with the candidates on offer. This contemplation, though understandable, is fraught with significant drawbacks. Here’s why deciding not to vote due to dissatisfaction with candidates can be detrimental both to individuals and the broader society.
the president and the olympics
The Summer Olympics, held every four years, often coincide with presidential election years in the United States. This unique timing brings forth an interesting dynamic where two major events compete for public attention: the pinnacle of international sports and the race for the highest political office in the country. The convergence of these events can have subtle yet significant effects on the electorate's decision-making process. This essay explores how the Olympics may influence voter behavior and candidate selection in presidential elections.