The Life of the Non-Party
Ever since I became an American Citizen in 2008, I have grappled with the question: where do I fit politically? Am I a Democrat or a Republican? What box do I fit in? Well, I finally figured it out. I, like perhaps you, am neither.
The modern world and information have made many Americans too smart to fit into two boxes on a ballot, and Washington has missed the boat. Instead of expanding party ideology to include more ideas and therefore more Americans, Democrats and Republicans have become ever more partisan and exclusive, alienating millions. However I may disagree with many of their notions, the Tea Party has effectively latched onto this frustration. Republicans, identifying them as right wing conservatives are trying to jump on their bandwagon. The latest is our own Mr. Boehner, who’s brainless tactic of “just say no” to anything from anyone else makes him part of the problem. The Tea Party folks have him pegged.
Democrats fare no better under the spotlight. Sure, Mr. Obama was dealt a bad hand from the outset. However, he has failed to take on the tough issues of banking regulation and Democrats have been unable to convince the majority of the people that the Stimulus Plan is working or that healthcare for all is a workable notion.
So, for the record, here go some of my beliefs. Can you identify with them?
I am pro-life but not under all circumstances. It should be the Mothers call in cases of Rape, Incest and life threatening situations.
I believe in one God, and His messages, which include “love thy neighbor” and charity. Therefore, I believe (among other things) that in the richest nation on the Earth, we have a moral obligation to guarantee healthcare to those who can’t afford it. And we should share that cost fairly.
Taxes are a necessary Evil. Washington has not shown me that it can spend wisely, however, which makes me unhappy about feeding the machine.
I disagree with the invasion of Iraq but I agree wholeheartedly with the war in Afghanistan and support action and spending now to solve the problem now rather than slowly bleed us dry.
Alternative energy – nuclear, solar and wind – need to become a way of life if we are to survive as a superpower. We need to sacrifice to attain energy independence. Depending on others to supply our energy is dangerous and global warming is real – so we have to act now.
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy.
We waste too much time and money on pointless legal action. A cross in the dessert? My back hurts because of a fender-bender? Please.
Democrats and Republicans care more about WHO wins than ensuring that there is a win for the nation. Shame.
So what does this make me? Independent. I no longer look at the politician but at the issues. The politicians look at their party and not us. How can this work?