Election Fever

It is that time of the year when we are bombarded with election fever. Signs appear on lawns, poles, fences and every available open space saying vote for me. It is exciting for some and really should be for all to make sure we have the correct people in place to represent us on the numerous elected positions. It is a sad state of the country when sometimes 20% of the voters elect people to important positions.

I personally am very interested and excited by elections and politics in general. During the past few days I was able to have a visit from no less than five people who are running for office. I love these encounters and I like to play the devils avocate with each.

I have a set of rules when dealing with people who are offering their services and seeking your vote. First I feel you have to understand the scope of the office or position. Every sought after office has limits as to their power and responsibility. Every canditate must understand this and limit their promises and plans to fit their elected position.

When a candidate faces you just listen and say nothing. This is the first test for a winner. How much is about them and how much is about the saught position. When they run out of steam wait and see if they engage you. What do you see as issures etc. This gives you insight as to the type of person you are committing to.

Take over the situation and ask them how they feel about your issues if you have any and listen carefully to their answers. If there is a real contensious local issue find out their stand and see if it is consistent with their public stance. Find out if they are a team player or a loose cannon. We need people who can work together. If their plans are outside their responsibility challenge them. If they bad mouth other candidates can them. Make them accountable for past decisions and keep a sense of comic relief when you see flaws so apparent you could not support the person at your door. Respect all people who are willing to put themselves out there to represent you and be polite when people appear to be out of their league but still trying to make a difference.

This time of the year is important and at least we should be among those who want to participate in the process. You dont always deserve what you get but we do not have grounds to complain if you don't do your part. SO GET OUT AND BECOME PART OF THE SOLUTION AND VOTE.