Fearful Voting

One of my children had a very difficult time potty training due to some GI issues.  Feeling quite frustrated and like we would never get this task completed, I sought out a doctor's help.  I remember her looking at me and saying, "They will not graduate from high school in diapers.  I promise".  I think it was her kind way of telling me to get a grip, stop operating out of fear, and leave the unrealistic scenarios behind.

I feel like we should apply that same type of practical sentiment to the current Republican Presidential primary race.  We WILL have a Republican candidate in the end.  It may not be our first choice, but let's face it, any of the four candidates left in the race would do a better job at running the country than President Obama.  For that matter, my cat would do a better job at being President than Obama.  She likes to sleep a lot, but he likes to be out playing golf all the time, so it would even out.  Besides, she wouldn't create anymore debt for our country.  That alone would help us and keep us from accruing untold more trillions in debt.  But I digress...Polling in Florida last Tuesday indicated that the number one reason people had for choosing who they voted for was the need to beat Obama.  While that is important, I think people are almost in panic mode.  They are so fearful that Obama will win in November, that they are letting that fear drive who they are voting for instead of choosing the candidate that they think would do the best job.  If everyone would vote for who they really like, maybe the Republican Party would actually end up with a candidate that people like and are excited about getting behind.

Once the candidate is chosen will be the time to put both feet in even if we don't like the candidate.  That is the time to unite and make our first goal beating Obama.  But the primaries should be the time for rooting for your guy, for taking the opportunity to cast a vote for the person that most closely matches your ideals, principles, and values.  If your state hasn't held its primary yet, vote for your first choice.  Don't let fear dictate your vote.  There will be a candidate.  If it isn't your first choice, that will be the time to acquiesce if you must. 

One final note, don't let the media decide for you either.  I am sick of hearing that the race is between two candidates only.  Last I checked, there were still four guys running.  And just because history has shown something in the past, like no one has gone on to win the candidacy without winning Florida, doesn't mean things can't change.  This is OUR election.  Make your vote count.  Vote for who you think is best.   Don't let fear cast your ballot.