general wisdom

I've spent a lot of time trying to decide who I would vote for in the upcoming Presidential election. I've talked to Republican and Democrat friends about why their candidates would be the best choice. I've talked to friends whose judgment I admire and who I know are informed and thoughtful. I've visited the candidates' websites and read their positions on issues that I'm concerned about. I've watched debates and read the news. I've also had several discussions with Sam about why we choose the people we vote for. On what points do I need to agree with the candidate I choose? Is it OK to vote for the candidate we respect more, even if we disagree on some fundamental points? Are those points really fundamental, or are they just the arbitrary opposite stances the parties have come to hold? How important are the tone of the candidates' campaigns and the choice of running mate?

I'm still not sure I know the right answer to those questions, or even if there is a right answer. However, when I saw this video of Colin Powell explaining why he endorsed Barack Obama, his reasons rang true with me, and are a much better summary of why I'm going to vote for Obama than I think I could give. And so, I second your endorsement General Powell.



And I also second this endorsement from my niece Isabelle, daughter of Ben and Amy, who will mostly likely not be voting for Obama.