Politics

My political orientation is independent.  I generally vote on the issues and the character of the candidate.  I look at data and facts, not pre-spun opinions from the myriad sources where they are available.  I can form my own opinions.

I tend not to fit into one silo.  I’ve voted for Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.  A candidate has to jump through some serious hoops to get my vote.  What are some of those hoops?

• Demonstrated integrity
• Relevant experience
• Knowledge of government and how it operates at the level the candidate is running
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate and compromise, where necessary, to get things done
• Excellent communications skills

Here’s who won’t get my vote:

• Self-serving politicians
• Candidates that are obligated to special interests
• Candidates who appear to want to make a career out of this office
• Candidates who lack any relevant experience
• Candidates who don’t understand how givernment works (I used to teach high school civics and if I don’t think a candidate could pass my final exam, then they fail on this point)
• Poor communicators
• Idealogues
• Candidates that have been dishonest or been involved in some form of moral turpitude (note:  changing one’s position over time does not constitute dishonesty)

It is also my opinion that there are parts of our constitutional structure that are in serious need of updating:

• The electoral college system
• Congressional redistricting
• Term limits for elected and appointed officials (including the judiciary)
• The nature and makeup of the U.S. Senate

With all that in mind, you can take my posts with a grain of salt if you want to.  They’re just my opinions.