Choosing a Candidate

There are many factors to take into consideration when choosing who to vote for in the coming elections. Of course there are the issues that interest you the most and where each of the candidates stand on those concerns. But in the election mode, so much posturing takes place, it is difficult, at best, to discern who is and who is not sincere. There are those who vote strictly by party, but I feel those are of a dying breed. And some people vote for a candidate because they "like" that person. There is something about them that connects with them. There is no way to determine which one of these are better or even IF one is better than the other, but there is a way to combine these methods to help find who is the best candidate, at least in your opinion.

First, list 5 characteristics that you appreciate most in the people you know. Also, list 5 of the characteristics you appreciate least in the people you know. Now take each of the candidates and check which characteristic you see in each of them.

Second, list 5 characteristics you feel are necessary to make a good, strong leader. Match them accordingly to each of the candidates.

Third, write down the top 3 issues you are concerned about that can be influenced by the particular office for which the candidates are competing, with a pro side and a con side. Match each of the candidates with where they stand on each issue. Keep in mind which ones are more party influenced than others and remember their position in the race for the office may not be the same as their position once they take the office.

You will probably have more than one candidate who seems worthy of your allegiance. One thing to keep in mind is that sometimes the people we like most, are not the best leaders. You may love to go bowling with your bud from work, but he wouldn't do well as the CEO of your company. Likability is great, but it takes more than personality to govern.

Some people say the coming presidential election could be one of the most important in many years. Personally, I don't see that. Yes, we are at war (with someone or something), the economy is wavering, health care is out of control and social security is about to go bust, but don't these things happen about every 4 years? Wouldn't it be nice to elect people who actually DID do something about these things after they were elected? Remember it takes more than just the President to change things, so look at each candidate in every race for each office to choose who is the best fit. Using this method to pick for whom you place your next vote may be a factor in doing just that.