Something has always bothered me about the political atmosphere, and I guess it has really become overbearing during the last year or two. We have been in a Presidential election cycle now from early 2000 until now, and there is no end in sight.
In general, people are labeled as liberal or conservative. It’s a real shame. Most of us are “tweeners.” The problem arises because it is a conflict between those who are committed and those who are conflicted rather than those who are Left and those who are Right. I, like most Americans, am conflicted. Those who are committed can’t stand it.
There are any number of issues (in fact, most issues) where I think there is value in what both sides have to say. Yet both sides demand strict fealty, and I am unwilling to bow.
I’ve made my case on Civil Unions, but what I say won’t satisfy either side. The same problem arises in discussing abortion. I don’t believe in aborting what I believe is a child. I do not wish to make my belief law. Neither do I think women should be able to abort as a means of birth control. I say that because there are plenty of ways to protect oneself from becoming pregnant. And I don’t think the government has any place in paying for abortion. So, my beliefs conflict with both sides, and both sides will tell me where I’m wrong.
I am a veteran. I get tired of the media telling me where veterans stand in regards to the upcoming election. Guess what. We don’t all agree. Even those who served in the same unit at precisely the same time will have a different view of the political system and candidates. I understand why candidates focus on groups. But I don’t vote as a group.
I’m a tweener. I am interested in rational discussion of issues, but will not accept the far ends of any opinion. I am conflicted because I’m never quit sure I understand all aspects of a problem. And I don’t think anyone else does. But I do think I have a pretty good head on my shoulders, and do my best to stay informed. I’m always impressed with other people’s knowledge and analysis. I enjoy hearing someone talk about a different perspective, even if I cannot rebut. It makes me think. Those who are committed can’t stand an opposing viewpoint. Even if their only retort is, “Oh yeah? Well you’re just stupid!” or “You just don’t have all the information.” Maybe, but what makes them so sure they have it all?
Beyond that, I am tired of every cause being thrown up as a reason to vote for one candidate or another. Most causes are not accounted for in the Constitution. And most causes are immune to what a politician can actually do.
If any worthy news organization wanted to generate true public discourse on issues of real value, it would make a list of Presidential imperatives, pass them out to its staff, and insist on a focus on these issues.
And “litmus tests” for judicial appointees isn’t one of them.