Who and What I’m Voting For
I have spent the past year decidedly undecided. Tomorrow, I cast my ballot. I do so without the great enthusiasm so many have this election year. I think the rumors of Obama raising that dude from the dead and walking on the lake that one time are spurious at best, and I have never desired to hunt the Russians across the street with my shotgun and a helicopter. But despite all that, I have been able to arrive at a decision.
Truth is, neither candidate represents my views entirely (I’m a registered independent), but after the debates and all the interesting turns this election has taken, I’m voting for Barack Obama. While I may not agree with all of his policies and views, I find myself more in agreement with him than with John McCain on some issues that really matter to me. That, coupled with the avoidance, cheap shots and over-reliance on catch phrases in lieu of actual discussion that has become the mark of the McCain campaign, my conscience really won’t let me vote another way. Your mileage, I’m sure, varies.
Why share this? Why not? I’m a pretty transparent individual and there’s no harm in encouraging discussion, so long as it remains civil. If you’d like to state your case for you candidate of choice, I’d encourage you to do so. Just be respectful.
Also, for California voters, Prop 8–which amends our state constitution to read that marriage is strictly the domain of a man and woman–is on the ballot. I’ll be voting “yes” on that one for the simple fact that I don’t think the definition of marriage should be changed and I don’t think gay marriage is a good thing for society. I know many, many disagree with that stance and I respect their feelings. I just don’t share them.
For me, it’s not an equal rights issue. My understanding of California law is such that no one’s rights are taken away by this. In fact, there are many provisions and recognitions by the state for same-sex couples already. Discrimination is wrong and I firmly believe that this is not what Prop 8 is.
Prop 8 is about taking something that I believe is integral to the success of our families, communities and society as a whole and preserving it. I disagree with those who would impose their version of morality on California by having that changed. That, to me, is wrong.
Those are the issues that I’m most looking forward to voting on today. Whichever side of them or others you fall on, I hope you vote your conscience and get out there. And then, tomorrow, let’s let the dust settle and come back together. No reason people who disagree can’t get along and NOT call each other bigots and baby killers. I’m just saying.