I admire people who are secure in their political convictions, probably because I’m so insecure in mine. Looking at the glass half full, I guess I’m just open minded. I’ve always thought I was a conservative. I’m a registered Republican, but honestly I’m not sure why. I received a very poor political education. U.S. Government courses in my high school were a laughing stock, as was economics. Lucky for me I took ECON 101 in college to make up for those losses. I guess I should have taken some Government courses as well.

I guess the reason why I don’t know with which party I should align myself is that the media doesn’t tell me how the candidates (or parties) rate on the different issues. They tell us about their temperament, they tell us the polls, they tell us where they are campaigning and fundraising. It’s not just the media however, the candidates seem to be afraid to take a stance on issues. It’s as if everyone seems to think we should just vote for someone like a popularity contest. The party that doesn’t opposed birth control could probably win eventually because most people end up in the same party as their parents. I’m not content with that. I was taught to make an informed decision, but as hard as I try I can’t find the information I want.

Since the candidates won’t tell me what they’re going to do I’ll tell them (and you) what I want and maybe all of you (I think someone reads this) can help me decide which candidate will make me happiest. Don’t forget the third party candidates. It’s an easy thing to do since they’re not allowed in the debates and the media denies their existence.

Here is where I stand:

• I refuse to vote for a candidate simply because they belong to a particular party.
• I feel like a president should be able to make good sound decisions.
• I want a president who wants a balanced budget and wants to pay down the national debt.
• I want a flat tax or fair tax system.
• The tax code is way too complex and totally unfair, lets figure out how much money the government needs and collect it from all residents based on their income.
• I support a welfare system that helps those in great need and encourages individuals to improve their situation in as short a time as possible.
• I want better healthcare. The private system could work, but something has to be done about prices. I think I am for a single payer plan, privately administered.
• I believe in free trade and in a free economy.
• I don’t believe we have either currently
• I think we should tighten border security and I don’t think any illegal immigrants should have a free ride to citizenship.
• I think No Child Left Behind is a big joke.