Are You Too Polarized?

Thought-provoking (not to mention probably reaction-provoking) question, Dan. It's difficult to remain open, sometimes, to other points of view - but important to hear opposing views and consider them fairly.

wow, this could get deep ? ? ?

Your list of groups is longer than your list of questions.

For lack of anything better to say at this moment, I am agreeing with Angela.

canned solutions which don't work...I don't take part in any of it as i don't agree with anyone who thinks they have the answers. I leave the direction humans should go to Gpd

You are right Sandy, any answers to my questions?

Thanks for posting to In 'em to get 'em!!

Your point is good, you deserve a high ten rating! Most people will argue till blue in the face, or not at least protect the rights of disagreement among their peers. This is an important part of what freedom is. Politicians should mostly know this though.

And yet, this rating was 8.2 previously. A low rating for asking others if they are too polarized and if they are fighting for the rights of others?

This is a pretty heavy question. Don't think I can answer in this little space and on short notice. I intend to vote in every election available to me. I watch how incumbents vote and what they stand for and will re-elect or not based on how well they are representing me. I try to keep up with what new candidates are really saying and doing, weeding out the truth from the spin.

In the past, I have voted for both party members for president (at different times, of course). Right now, I feel it will be difficult for me to find a Republican who represents my beliefs and who I feel will help the country out the enormous mess it has become under GWB. Unfortunately, I'm not sure any of the Democrat candidates will do a better job.

I would like to see a huge turnover in public office seats. I would like to see candidates who can actually do their jobs without the outside influences and pressures that may make them compromise their standards and beliefs. Not sure that's possible or even feasible at this time, but that's my ideal. Still hoping for the best in the future.

I could vote for a Democrat who was against abortion and euthanasia. And for finishing the war before we pull out of it.

I could also vote for a Democrat who was for the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman.

Bethany, I don't think you'll find any candidate, regardless of party who is in favor of euthanasia. The closest to that issue would be that Oregon allows for doctor-assisted death for terminally ill patients who do not want to suffer any longer and be forced to live out another week or so through pain that is getting agonizingly worse.

Yes, not killing our children and elderly and disabled would benefit everybody.
Also, not destroying our families would benefit everybody.

But then the question is Bethany, what will you do to help fight for the rights of gay couples to have the same legal rights as heterosexual couples? Is the middle ground to deny marriage but to allow for full legal benefits? Is it to allow gay marriage? What allows the freedoms and rights that we all enjoy to others who have previously been oppressed and restricted from those rights that we often take for granted?

I can't say I've met a candidate for any party who is Pro-"destroying families". I'm sure they wouldn't get far.

Yes, others who disagree with me are corrupt. But they do have that right.
Even God gives people the right to choose to be evil if they want to be.
He doesn't give me the right to call myself righteous, though, if I don't choose to stand up for righteousness.

I think we need to get the "Good Old Boys" out! We need new blood, what Alice N. had to say makes a lot of sense to me. This country seems to better when we as a people vote in a mix of different minded people to represent the whole country, because we are all different in our beliefs and what we think is the right thing to do! I stay opened minded about everything! Work together! To much time is spent pointing fingers, should have, could have, would have, it's all over and unchangeable. But we can change the future!

I am always campaigning for fellow voters to THINK CRITICALLY when reading/watching/listening to news/soundbites/gossip/Letterman about candidates or issues.

DON'T automatically buy the hype or the caricaturizations. EVALUATE the sources. Evaluate the statements. Come to your own conclusions.

So, yes, I DO try to remain open when discussing all candidates and all points of view - even tho I have some strong opinions about many of them.

Okay, Dan, I have been carrying on with you a little bit, but the truth is that marriage was instituted by God. If they want to go against God, they have that right, but they should never call it marriage. That's like saying, "I'm a gigolo for Jesus!" It cannot be. Call it a civil union.
Churches that preach the Biblical view of homosexuality should not be forced to give homosexual people ordination to enforce their rights. Have your rights, I would tell any of my homosexual friends to their face, but don't infringe on mine.

Great Thoughts there Dan!

About the euthanasia and destroying the families. I think Terry Shiavo was in another state beside Oregon. And if abortion and (okay, Ill call it what it was)starving people to death doesn't destroy families, I don't know what does.

Of course my way's right. Everyone who disagrees with me on anything, even favorite color, must be wrong. ;)

"Okay, Dan, I have been carrying on with you a little bit, but the truth is that marriage was instituted by God. If they want to go against God, they have that right, but they should never call it marriage. That's like saying, "I'm a gigolo for Jesus!" It cannot be. Call it a civil union.
Churches that preach the Biblical view of homosexuality should not be forced to give homosexual people ordination to enforce their rights. Have your rights, I would tell any of my homosexual friends to their face, but don't infringe on mine. "

If you believe this is true, then nothing could undermine the sacredness of marriage. You just put the power in man's hands and stole it right out of God's. If God created marriage as a sacred covenant, nothing you or me or anyone does could take away that sacredness. We just don't have that kind of power.

I am usually not too biased till the Primary's are over with. This year, as in the previous two elections I find all the democratic candidates validated and good. I see an aura of evil around the Republican candidates. Just more self-serving, deceitful 'grabbers'!

Step 1: Remove Bush from office.

E. M.
If what I said about marriage was my own opinion, that would be judging. I am merely stating what the word of God says. True gluttony is a sin too, If I said that gluttony was acceptable, I would be lying. So why is it wrong for me to state that homosexuality is a sin and that marriage is sacred to God? I could quote you chapter and verse and will if you sincerely want to know the truth. But I think we both answered Dan's question here. We are too polarized.
Personally, (And I'm certain many will disagree here) I think I'm too polarized for the devil's comfort.

Great Thoughts

I am fighting for rights of others, for the children of abuse! Am I to polarized? Nope I'm not enough child abuse is still here.

I see there's some polarization going on here right now! I'm going to speak MY truth that forgiveness and compassion are required in these situations and that reconciliation is the ultimate destination. I pray that those with closed hearts find a way to crack theirs to let just a little light and a lot of love in. So may it be... And so it is!

E.M.
It's easy to call people names.
I, too, have friends who are homosexual, friends who drink, smoke, lie, and do a lot of other things I don't approve of. Just because I don't approve of certain behaviors doesn't mean I don't love the people. But I would be dishonest if I called myself their friend and didn't tell them that I believed their behavior was wrong. I don't rag on it any more than I'm sure you don't rag on any of your friends once you tell them that they are wrong about something. Someone that I love more than I love my own life even has struggles with homosexuality.
God doesn't want to strike people dead. He wants them to stop doing things that he knows are harmful to them.
Oh, and as for "slavery and sexism" I know you didn't! I'm a woman preacher in a majority black church!

Deb A. Get real! My daughter is left-handed. About the other, I don't know. I didn't watch that. Were they a man and woman who loved each other and loved God? Otherwise, I'm sure it was a sin.

E.M. I love you and I'm going to pray for you. But I am never going to agree with you that God was wrong.

Congrats to you Dan H. you are featured on the Home Page of Gather!!

Thought provoking questions, I can honestly say as a registered independent, I vote for the canidate who has the qualities that I would like to see in our President.

Wow, this got heated quickly! I try to not 'polarize' myself. I have an odd belief system. I am both really libral and very conservative. Right now, I like Ron Paul. That doesn't make a whole lot of sense as I am Pagan, Pro-CHoice, Pro-Gay Marriage, and Pro-Euthanasia!!

Funny, how self-righteous so many so called free thinkers are!

But we could call one another names all day long. I'm not going to be convinced that sin is righteousness.

I know that God's people are not supposed to be contentious, and for that I apologize.
Those who love the truth will hear it and those who don't won't.
I started on this thread, just kidding around with Dan, because nobody appeared to be taking him seriously anyway.
I stayed on here, arguing, because I always try to persuade people from believing things that will harm them in the end. I do care what happens to people.
And if I weren't 100% persuaded that the word of God was true, believe me, I wouldn't waste my time. I would spend all of my time reading pleasant novels and hiding from the world.
You guys are probably just being mean and hateful because you care, too and you want me to understand. And I can respect that. What I can't do is agree with you.

it is primary eletion day in florida

yikes....political talk......

Ok, here goes....

I think when political parties first formed there were major differences, however now the lines are so blurred we have Libertarian, Independent, Republican, Democrat; Liberal Repulican, Conservative Democrat.......(you get the point). I think it's hard to be truly polarized now with everyones views swirling in and out of the original definitions of what these parties were about. I took a candidate survey to see who was closest to my views, well, 30/30/28/32 is not a high percentage of common political views between me and the candidates. Sure, we have our favorites, but then there are also several of us who shrug our shoulders, ponder who to vote for and with that on election day they had a button for "Eh." or None of the Above.

A friend of mine used to say she never votes, it only encourages them.

"Were they a man and woman who loved each other and loved God? Otherwise, I'm sure it was a sin."

Bethany, are you saying that married atheists and agnostics are living in sin no matter what gender they are?

How can you be so sure what is and is not a "sin"? Until you prove to me -- via tape recording on your answering machine, or registered mail from heaven, or a videotape -- that God has directly issued to you, personally, a list of what is and is not sinful, I'm going to keep on being an "evil" freethinker who disagrees with almost every word you wrote.

Dan, to answer your question, yes, I probably am too polarized. There's not a Republican on the planet I'd even consider allowing to run this country after the total FUBAR they made of it over these past seven long years. Yes, the Dems need to develop more backbone, but if it weren't for the Shrub and the Repugnant -- oops, Republican -- Congress -- we wouldn't be in the shape we're in now.

This comment is to let you know that this content has reached ten comments, and as such has been removed from Comment Speedway! Congratulations!

"Yes, others who disagree with me are corrupt. But they do have that right.
Even God gives people the right to choose to be evil if they want to be.
He doesn't give me the right to call myself righteous, though, if I don't choose to stand up for righteousness."

I'm still dealing with me being corrupt for disagreeing with you which has the effect of shutting you off all together. I have tried constantly to allow all thought processes to share but have gone thru about seven years of listening to people try to out yell the other to "make" them believe their way. When George Bush said those who disagree with him are against him and are not patriotic I watched in amazement as people picked up that sound bite and cursed those of us who felt he was wrong. I watched in amazement as people hung their faith on one or two issues and ignored the lies, the pandering, the distortions, the misrepresentations and a whole list of other negatives about which they refused to acknowledge. I have no problem with anyone's religion but I wonder if they really pay attention to the sort of influence they seem to wish to have over the political system. While they are waiting for the second coming of Christ to appear as a candidate who will meet their every need they are lambasting every candidate who doesn't fir their needs. They too often narrow down a potential candidate's qualifications to such an unrealistic quality they distort the real issues. I have yet to understand how they can feel the issues which are so important to them should over shadow all others. They ignore financial, organizational skills, track records which have shown they have attempted to stem loss of jobs, housing issues and many other qualities which are good for many but...because that candidate doesn't share their belief in abortion or marriage he/she is no good. I applaud anyone who has a conviction and sticks to it but I abhore anyone who can even allow the words from their mouths to tell me I am "corrupt" because I do not agree with them. I believe in an all inclusive God and do not put others down. What one believes is not any of my business and certainly should not be fused into who we elect to lead this country. We are not voting for a new minister, priest, rabbi, eman or any other church leader. We are attempting to choose the very best leader of our country and the world but certainly will not achieve that as long as too many use their personal beliefs as a measuring stick for others and the candidates.

I want to know why we always seem to have a religion discussion enter a POLITICAL one. My opinion is that religion and politics should be kept separate at ALL times. But that's just me.....

GOOD point, Ann.

Religion should be a private and personal choice.

I enjoy the comments as much as the article.

Religion and politics are personal. I don't argue with anyone on these subjects. Everyone has the right to their own opinions. I only wish it will all turn out okay. Things could get worse.

We are ALL MEDIA-IZED.....Almost impossible to get to the real TRUTH without listening to Air America, subscribing to The Nation, and Alternet. WHOOPS, guess I am a radical liberal,huh!

There are so many issues and points of view to listen to and it is difficult not to have a one track mind when our major media sources limit the responses of our candidates and which candidates we are exposed to at all.

Sarah G.....I agree.

Teresa H. " I'm continually amazed at people that believe faith is something others should put on the shelf just because they don't believe. If someone has a faith that comes and goes that easily I wouldn't want them as president of the local Rabbit Lodge, never mind president of the country. Where on earth did this concept of "keep your religion at home" come from?"

My opinion only here......... I don't think your faith should be put on a shelf at all. I just don't think it has a place in the political arena. Believe what you want, just don't push it on me. I think if a President who was ONLY or ALL about his faith were to get elected into office, they would use their position to INFLUENCE people to believe in THEIR faith. I don't NEED that. I know what I believe and do NOT need someone to try and convince me otherwise.

I listen to what everyone has to say with an open mind. I do not agree nor disagree with them. I keep MY opinions to myself. Saves a lot of arguments that way.

This concept of "keep your religion at home" came from the one who hates true religion, of course.

I'm not polarized, but my state is. Washington is one of those states when you vote for 1 party, or your vote isn/t counted. I think it's against the constitution, but who am I?

Whatever happened to the separation of church and state?

I simply prefer not to make statements about things I simply do not know enough about.

I am non partisan anyway ;)

I like to think I have an open mind and yes, I so listen to others opinions. I may or may not agree with them and vise versa but it certainly gives one food for thought. If we were all of the same mind and opinion, wouldn't we be clones?

Your final statement is a loaded question. Very much your opinion. Both "poles" feel what they believe is best for the nation. They seem to be very much opposite one another, although there are similarities that no one wants to admit. This is a very meotional topic. Good luck!


Aesop for Today January 29

I'll be true to myself and do what I decide is best. Good questions!

Yay Dan. I dont think we have ever been so polarized as we are now!! there are so many choices of acceptable realitys.....therefore.....more people to be opposing.
EM & Bethany, thanks for your entertaining interactions........
By the way, that self righteous attitude of "truth", in etc.......is the very reason 'i will never call myself a Christian. Though there are many Christians who do follow Jesus's non-judgemental, forgiving & non-condescending, non egotistical, kind compassionate &humanitarian ways.......UNfortunately, there are so many people who call themselves Christians who are hate-filled and believe in the paper pages of a book that has been politicized & altered. Unless you can read the original texts.....you still havent read 'the truth' anyway.....I believe it is idolatrous to worship a book!! I believe God possibly existed before these words were written....and still possibly exists now. So where are the updates from 400 AD onward? Why has God stopped 'telling the truth'. I dont think God has stopped at all.
Anyway, I think Jesus would be pretty annoyed at how some people use hatred&violence against others, in his name. And judgement. Because saying "these people are free to sin & be evil"....etc IS a judgement. I think you're attitude seem quite evil Bethany!! You are saying some people are this n that.....what is truth. You cant just go picking bits out of the bible!! If you think it's literally intended, i suggest you stay home & cook & clean for your husband (and his extended family). I suggest you remove yourself from society for a week while you menstruate. If someone steals, hungry for food or not, cut off their hand. Oh and i sure hope you dont eat pork or bacon or any other cloven hooved animal. By the way.....you should be covering you hair in public.....come to this of it....i think computers are a bit 'worldly'....so maybe you better burn yours & stop mixing with all those bads apple friends of yours. You know what it says in the bible about that.....
Its silly.....cos Jesus hung with bad apples & it never seemed to rub off on him. What is it? Is God about revenge, hate & righteousness? Or is he about forgivness & compassion? Or could it be that the people who wrote the bible were actually expressing their experience of God in a certain time & we know better now? So if you wont let Gay people marry, Im afraid you will have to get looking at the other rules that YOU believe in. ALL the rules in the bible!
But its up to you. Thats choice. And if theres a God .......what if he says "why didnt you accept Gay people?" you say "it was in your book." he may say "so many people wrote that & twisted my words; why wont you think for yourself with the brain i gave you. like my son did!! i know he caused some trouble with the traditionalists, but at least he used the freedom to think that i gave him"

The decision would not be so difficult to make if there was actually some honest person running for the Presidential position.

From what we are seeing in the news out here i australia......your election campaignes seem to very showbiz.....grand cliches......etc. Our last election was won by a man with none of that showbiz stuff! He won because in a time of war, pain, financial stress, the last thing anyone out here was going to listen to was lofty windy airy speeches. He won because he didnt bag the opposition. He just spoke policy. Boring? Yes.....but I think we are over politicians spending time & money on waffle when people are dying &struggling to live. But it is traditional in Australia to not believe politicians shiny speeches. Maybe its cultural? Out here the majority of people vote for people they doubt are telling the truth. We just try to choose the one who seems to lie less....and may actually have some ethics& get the job done. Here's hoping.
On the polarization, our last Prime Minister loved to divide & use fear, ignorance, etc. He wouldnt sign kyoto. He wouldnt say sorry to our aborinal community. The new guy said he would. He passed his intention to sign kyoto to the governer general in the first 2 seconds as Prime Minister. He is saying sorry next month. Mayb this will put to rest some division....I dont thoink he likes the fight. ?He seems to be solution oriented. Im sure he isnt perfect....but so far he has seemed to be alot moreinto the job than the last guy, who was Bush's buddy, who seemed to like the showbiz.

My husband says he has electile dysfunction; The inability to become aroused over any of the choices for president put forth by either party in the 2008 election year. Is it possible for women to have it too? ;))

I think we need to abolish political "parties." They are not fun and should not be called parties. They are more like gangs.
Candidates should run on their own merit, gaining support if and when they prove themselves worthy.
Bear in mind that those who disagree with you are not necessarily "polarized, uninformed, single-issue, foolish people."

Perhaps, Dan, the polarization in the country is a natural result of polarizing forces at work.

If the choice comes down to "good" and "evil", musn't people be polarized by such a decision? One cannot desire good and really consider supporting evil out of a sense of fairness.

What has happened in the United States over the past seven years (the emasculation of a government "of the people, by the people and for the people" and its replacement with a hollow shell that exists to cut taxes and flow the remaining public funds into private hands through untendered contracts -- the reversal of more than 200 years of policy based on the concept of 'no first strike' in favour of the Bush doctrine of wars of agression -- the abandoning of war veterans to sub-standard health care and job prospects so that private providers of health care services can make more profits -- the violation of numerous international treaties and agreements, many of them actually written by American administrations of the past) has been evil in the eyes of many: evil acts committed willfully and intentionally by men and women of evil intent.

To support that, or consider giving support to someone who still professes some allegiance to that, is to condone the evil.

The Democrats are not the embodiment of good, not by any stretch. But evil is evil and one cannot support it or even consider supporting it in good conscience.

Ann yes: >>I think Jesus would be pretty annoyed at how some people use hatred&violence against others, in his name. <<

I agree. The people who vote down rights for gay families are in essence, taking stability away from children. It's pathetic.

I would like people to look at their candidates and their issues and ask themselves, will what I'm backing actually serve to better a person's life? Will it lead to further happiness or less sadness? Often, when a person is a single-issue voter, the answer is no. Well, when you vote, think about others besides yourself since you're not the only one affected. Every person, with each unique life and personality we have here, will be affected by these choices. Strive to think for others and serve your fellow man and woman.

I don't believe in any of them! :)

Dan, this is a very thought provoking subject. Seemingly, the above conversation goes further in answering the questions your thread posed than the individuals themselves. We as a people have a tendency to quickly resort to name calling when someone expresses and opinion that is different from the one that we share. Once the name calling starts it becomes increasingly harder to gain a consensus. Thus we have Red States and Blue States, abortionist and anti-abortionist, homophobia and homosexuals. The Red States believe that the Blue State are evil and corrupt and the Blue States believe that the Red States are evil and corrupt. The abortionist believe the anti-abortionists are evil and corrupt and the anti-abortionists believe the abortionists are evil and corrupt. The homophobic believes that the homosexuals are evil and corrupt and the homosexuals believe that the homophobics are evil and corrupt. Rather than one group being evil or corrupt, it could be that they simply share different views. Let us then sit down and reason together. How can we develop policies that benefits the common good? I believe that this can be done without trashing those who share different views than my own. The name calling and trashing the opponent is a relic of the 20th century that is best left in the old century. The 21st century calls for new approaches to resolving the problems that linger from the 20th century. We must quickly solve the problems of the past so we can beginning to enjoy the wonders of this brave new world.

Having been a Libertarian for many years I haven't had to worry about who became president, I just knew I didn't vote for him. But this year scares me. On the Democratic side we have Hillary Clinton who with her husband helped to put a lot of the current problems this country is facing into action a few years ago. Obama doesn't seem too bad but he too is a Democrat and I just don't trust them. Who I do find interesting is Mitt Romney. His father was governor of Michigan when I was young and he was a fine governor, we weren't facing bankruptcy while he was in office. I have to believe that the man instilled some of his qualities into the son. Romney has a lot of the same beliefs that I have and when I look at the opposition, McCain I shudder. I'm just waiting for him to go off of the deep end again. The man definately has anger issues. Not someone you want for President. And while we're on the subject of President, I don't like Bush any better than the next guy but I have to admire him for one thing-- he lives green. His whole farm is heated and cooled by water and has all of the green improvements a residence can have. I think this is very commendable.

I have lived under the shrub regime for 7 long, terrible years--the only 2 things he knows is "9/11" and "Juhezzusss is my personal savior".
I've watched as we have allowed No child's behind left in school damage schools--and schools are only allowed to teach abstinence if they take federal funds for health education.
I've watched as my networth went down, but the top 1% went through the roof--we are the only country where CEO's make over 400 times the employee....and the only country where a CEO can bankrupt a country and get over a million dollar(actually $6M for countryside) bonus and severence pay.
I've watched as the christian taliban have tried to take over this nation as a "christian" nation, disavowing the separation of church and state and what this nation was founded on--principles of government, NOT christian mythology.
Can I get along with the other side? Only when they show respect for beliefs other than their own...and that doesn't happen a lot.

I'm a fairly new citizen. Not polarized. Cynical. Amazed. Shocked even. But no, not polarized. Maybe I haven't lived here long enough.

I think the country is in general...unfortunately, as to the national election there is no candidate I would vote for. I believe in a middle ground and none of those running offer that. I think that regarless of whomever is elected the country will become more and more polorized...people's beliefs are vast and different and usually unwilling to look at the other side of things

I like a lot of diverse viewpoints myself, I just like to see people talk and get to know the other person; instead of just stereotyping them. the crap you hear in the media just stereotypes and divides people, instead of bringing them together

Dan-I am not polarized in any way-except maybe my religious tolerance has been pushed to the edge. It is my hope that we keep church & state separate ALWAYS. Balancing the budget-here's a way: drop congressional/presidential million dollar pension packages. Of course then no one would actually want to run for office. I hope whoever gets in there has some fiscal sense. As for who has best ideas?-right now they all do-let's see who wins & if he/she follows through on his/her promises.

Hey Dan did you move your fozen butt article?

For one thing, listen to an opposing viewpoint. Consider making progress instead of trying to convert someone (esp. politically).

Dan, I may be a little polarized, but not completely. I don't have any idea whom I'm going to vote for, but I know whom I will not vote for.

In agreement with some of the comments above, and it total disagreement with other comments, I believe that the separation of church and state is a vital part of this country and our Constitution. We need more discussion by the candidates of real issues, like health care, education, foreign policy, and the economy. When the candidates or their parties ignore the issues and pander to particular religious groups, they are fomenting polarization. News media seem to love this polarization as much as some campaigning politicians, perhaps because it apparently simplifies things. It doesn't help the country, however.

To some people religion and politics are inseparable. The Taliban, for instance. I have nothing but respect for those who live up to their own principles, but all too often I hear people being called vile names - like "evil" and "corrupt" - simply because they disagree with a very persistent and very vocal minority.

Tell ya what, evangelizers and proselytizers, I'll try to be keep my temper with you provided you quit trying to make me live by your beliefs.

A lot of people have very strong opinions on politics but most of it is just that, Opinions.

Politics have become way too polarizing in recent years, to the point that NOTHING can get done because both sides won't budge on ANYTHING.

What ever happened to the idea of a Statesmen, that would put personal and local interests aside and worked for what was best for the whole country, not just one small segment of it.

The special interests throw so much money at the politicians and sway them away from the general good to something that only benefits the few. Maybe if we found a way to take all that campaign money out of the picture, things might have a chance to settle down.

A long time ago someone said that we had the best congress that money could buy, and it has only gotten worse since then.

Reading these opinions makes me even more certain that political parties do not serve the best interests of the American people. They have too much power and cronyism.
In order to run for office with the support of a "party", a candidate must espouse every issue in that party's platform. That seems unlikely.
I believe we need to abolish the political gangs and open the field to all to compete.
Fund each candidate equally and may the best candidates win.

I best agree with E.M

Yes Dan....How many people actually vote for the canditate that may help them personally, rather than voting for the greater good. A country shoud be judged by how they treat their weakest, poorest, oldest; their criminals too. That is civilization. Until the lowest are cared for, there is no stability or wealth. (You may live in your mansion but its no fun stepping over bodies of beggars on your way out of your gate!)
So I like to think people think of such things when they vote. We are only as civilised as how we treat those who we find difficult.

I don't like religion and some of these opinions are why (one persons actually). Some great viewpoints here. Everyone is suppose to have equal rights even if they do not agree with me. But thats in a perfect world I guess.

I will vote for the candidate that I think is best to lead this country. I do not like all the advertisements though. It makes me not want to vote for anyone that I have had to listen to 500 times before elections.

I'm writing in my canidate if they don't put him on the ballot

No.

I'm complete non-partisan. I vote the issues not the party. I'm registered as an Independent. And I'm also not allowed to vote in the primaries. So much for impartiality.

Polarized?!!! Can WE have a moment of silence? . . .

Those of us who have the opportunity to VOTE (and WILL VOTE) . . .
Let us ALL stand together and pledge allegiance to the flag . . .
(Remember those days?)

THE PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE

I Pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America
and to the Republic for which it stands,
one Nation under God,
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

-- "ONE NATION, UNDER GOD, INDIVISIBLE, . . ."

Too tired to be polarized after this thread.

Blessings everyone!
Rene A.

interesting topic. truth be told no one candidate is best for everyone. The best we can do is write to local, state, and federal entities. Tell them what we want and vote accordingly. Politicians have the ability to make change happen. Neither party is completely wrong or right.