on the fence

A place for fellow baby boomers who are struggling with the state of the nation

Boot Boot

what if candidates flip-flop?

When evaluating whether to vote for a candidate who flip-flops on issues that may never materialize without a favorable vote from Congress, the decision becomes even more nuanced. In this scenario, the stakes of the candidate’s position shifts are tied not only to their individual stances but also to the practical realities of governance. The nature of legislative processes, the role of the candidate within those processes, and the broader implications of their flip-flopping must all be considered.

Read More
Boot Boot

do endorsements matter?

Endorsements play a significant role in political campaigns, serving as signals to voters about the credibility, values, and alignment of a candidate. Both positive and negative endorsements can shape public perception, influencing how voters assess a candidate's suitability for office. However, endorsements should not be accepted uncritically; they should be evaluated based on the source, intent, and context in which they are given. This essay explores how endorsements, whether favorable or unfavorable, should affect how one perceives a candidate, emphasizing the need for thoughtful consideration.

Read More
Boot Boot

good… or not?

The conception of good versus evil has been a powerful influence in human society for centuries, shaping not only personal beliefs but also collective decisions, such as whom to vote for in an election. In a democratic society, where individuals have the power to choose their leaders, this dichotomy often plays a significant role in the decision-making process. The idea of good versus evil can be understood through various lenses, including moral, religious, and cultural frameworks, all of which contribute to how voters perceive candidates and their policies.

Read More
Boot Boot

a candidate’s character

The character of a candidate is one of the most scrutinized aspects during any election, as it provides insight into how they might handle the responsibilities of public office. A key component of understanding a candidate’s character is examining their previous job history. The roles a candidate has held, the responsibilities they have shouldered, and the experiences they have gained all contribute to shaping their character, influencing their leadership style, decision-making processes, and ethical compass. This essay explores how a candidate’s job history plays a crucial role in building their character and, by extension, their suitability for public office.

Read More
Boot Boot

let’s get social

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for political candidates to engage with the public, shape their image, and communicate their policies. However, the way a candidate uses social media can significantly impact their leadership style and effectiveness. This essay explores how a candidate’s actions on social media influence their leadership, examining the benefits and potential pitfalls of their online behavior.

Read More
Boot Boot

a candidate’s inner circle

The influence of a candidate’s associations on their leadership capabilities is a subject of considerable importance in the political arena. The people a candidate surrounds themselves with can provide insight into their values, decision-making process, and leadership style. This essay explores how the friends and associates of a candidate can impact their leadership, shaping not only public perception but also the effectiveness of their governance.

Read More
Boot Boot

does diversity matter?

When considering how ethnicity should impact your voting decision, it's crucial to approach the topic thoughtfully, recognizing the complexity of identity, civic responsibility, and the principles of democracy. In a society that values equality and justice, voting should ideally be an act driven by informed, rational decision-making, rather than one determined solely by ethnic identity. This essay will explore the potential influences of ethnicity on voting behavior, the importance of prioritizing broader social values, and the need to avoid ethnic-based voting that could undermine democratic principles.

Read More
Boot Boot

should a candidate have a pet?

Having a pet can significantly influence a candidate's image and effectiveness, impacting both their personal life and public perception. Here are several ways in which pet ownership can affect a candidate:

Read More
Boot Boot

childhood experience

Childhood experiences profoundly influence individuals, shaping their beliefs, values, and behaviors well into adulthood. For political candidates, these early experiences can play a significant role in molding their leadership styles, policy priorities, and public personas. Understanding how one's childhood impacts them as a candidate involves examining various aspects, including family background, education, socio-economic status, and formative events.

Read More
Boot Boot

the president and the market

The stock market's performance is often considered a barometer of economic health and can significantly influence the electoral prospects of an incumbent candidate. As an indicator of economic conditions, the stock market can affect public perception, voter confidence, and ultimately, election outcomes. This essay explores how the stock market impacts the re-election chances of incumbents, focusing on several key mechanisms: economic perception, voter confidence, media portrayal, and policy implications.

Read More