My sense of the current candidates is that they are limited by marketing and compromise. Today, politics is about getting the most publicity and the most votes. Hence, politicians are limited by what sounds good and appeals to the most number of people, regardless of whether it is best for the country. As a result, the politicians never take a strong stance or make a clear comment. At this point, it’s just a popularity contest.
Generation X
Age: 32
Profession: PhD candidate in Public Health at Tulane University
I’m excited to vote in the 2008 election! It’s been many years since I could say that.
(Although I have voted in every presidential election since I’ve been eligible—even when I lived overseas.) There are two candidates I’d be honored to have represent me.
And before it’s all over they may even appear on the same ticket!
I spend the majority of my work life outside the U.S. as an HIV researcher.
With either Clinton or Obama at the helm, I expect a lot fewer questions of the “What the @%$# is your President doing?!” variety. When I’m in the U.S., I reside in New Orleans, so I’m ready for regime change at home, too!
The issues I care about are the future: healthcare, environment, education, and foreign policy.
The Baby Boomer
Age: 60
Profession: Retired Teacher
I will vote for the Democratic candidate.
The issues I care about are the war in Iraq, energy, gun control, religion in government, future commitments to social security and Medicare, medical care for everyone, the erosion of America’s status in the world, immigration, and abortion rights.
Every election is, of course, enormously important in a democracy. It seems to me that the 2008 election is critically important for the future of our country and the world. The issues are so huge and global that we must elect someone who has the capacity to be truly a world leader.
I have not decided who will get my vote yet, but I think any of the current Democratic candidates are competent leaders and are in support of what I believe in. I also think John McCain (despite his position on the war) is a fine man and has served this country admirably.
