Four Generations: How Will You Vote?

For the 2008 election, there’s excitement in the air. I can feel it. I’m talking about it with my parents, my friends, and with twenty-something activists who are doing at least one thing pertaining to the election in preparation for change.

I wanted to find out which issues were at the forefront of women’s minds, so I asked women across four generations how they might vote in the election, what their sense was of the current candidates, and which issues will be pushing them toward the polls. Here’s what these women had to say.

The Millennial/Generation Y

Age: 26

Profession: Attorney

Though I am undecided about which candidate I will vote for, I care about the following issues:

1. Foreign Policy. With a trillion dollar debt, a waning reputation, and an emotionally disparaged people, American needs to end the war in Iraq. It is decimating our economy, moral base, and ideals as a nation. Not to mention, we are massacring thousands of Iraqis and Americans. Any candidate that votes to continue the war has lost touch with the American people and the world. I will only vote for a candidate who will end the war in Iraq.
2. Domestic Economy. Inflation is rising, the American dollar is at an all time low, and unemployment is on the rise. These are strong indications that the American economy is waning. Fundamentally, the poor and the middle class will be hardest hit. As a result, we need a candidate with a strong understanding of the economy and one who is going to take measures to actualize economic growth.
3. Abortion. As an attorney and feminist, I believe that a woman’s right to choose should be protected to the fullest extent of the law. I am not commenting on the morality of the issue, but simply believe that women should have the right to make decisions regarding their bodies and their lives. In daily life, I cannot assert my opinion over another’s life, so why should I, or anyone else for that matter, impose their opinion on a woman at the most critical moment in her life? Fundamentally, women can make their own decisions. As a result, abortion issues and candidates stance on such issues are a primary concern to me. I am particularly wary of candidates who claim to protect women but are really limiting their freedom of decision.