The United States of America is at a political crossroads, with tempers running high and opinions sharply divided.
As the country enters one of the most toxic election periods in recent history, it would be wise to approach the ballot box with level heads, voting not from emotion but choosing rationality.
It’s going to be a busy political year, with many decisions for the electorate to make.
First up are the party primaries, set for March 5. Municipal and school contests follow in May, and then the general election — which sees a president come to power — is Nov. 5.
While it’s been said politics is a spectator sport, it is not a full-contact competition. Let’s avoid a bitter political divide that sparks a “national divorce” — a second American civil war.
This is not the time for rash decisions and hurtful words.
What is needed is a cool and measured study of the issues involved, as well as observing how the candidates will weigh in on those matters.
These days, it’s hard to trust anything produced by the national media unless it’s a recipe or a box score. Meanwhile, the bombastic rhetoric from warring political parties isn’t much better. The wisest course is to rely on the information found in fact-checked publications such as this one. So much is at stake, and while claims that democracy is in the balance seem hyperbolic, there is no denying decisions made in the next few months will chart the course of this country for years.
However, there is no need to founder as the political season looms. Voters don’t have to be metaphorical lemmings, blindly following each other off a cliff when peer pressure instead of common sense takes over at the ballot box.
Don’t treat elections like a popularity contest, and don’t be swayed by the echo chamber of influencers seeking to push an agenda. Use your brain in the voting booth.
Before you cast a ballot, listen to the candidates when they speak. Decide how closely their views align with your own. Have a hefty dose of skepticism when politicians make promises. Do your research using verified, trusted sources.
Then, you will be ready to head to the voting booth to make an informed decision.
Agree? Disagree? Send your thoughts to [email protected]. We may run your comments as a letter to the editor, which we reserve the right to edit for length, taste and grammar.
Comment
Comments