Presidential Views More Important Than Race

Managing Editor

   While some concentrate on each race and their power to vote, a presidential candidate’s view on economic stimulus, homeland defense and poverty issues seem more important.

   In last issue’s commentary entitled, “Blacks and Latinos Using the Power to Vote,” Chad Newton missed the point of why black votes lead a candidate to victory. I don't believe the supposed numerous blacks and hispanics living in the United States to be the cause.

   According to the United States Census Bureau, 12 percent of Americans consist of people of African decent, 73 percent comprise Caucasian people and 15 percent include people of  Hispanic origin. So how can blacks and hispanics be the deciding factor in the presidential election? I believe more blacks and hispanics vote because they want to see a change. Both races occupy a large portion of low-income groups, although all races feel the pain from the currently increasing gas and food prices. I know I hurt every time I even pass a gas station or decide to get a cheeseburger for over $3. Being a white, single mother of 3 children, I feel the pain.

    According to EconomyinCrisis.org, the personal savings rate in America hit a post Great Depression low of negative .5 percent in 2005. People spent more money than they earned. This shows America’s slow decline from holding the previous title of  super power.  Let me remind you, current President George W. Bush took office as president for a second term in 2005. Our economy could not get in its current shape primarily because of President Bush. So, you might want to take a look at former President Bill Clinton and many other former presidents.

   Putting race and past presidents aside, some people are not even sure where each candidate stands on important issues. These issues will change our country’s welfare.  To me, it doesn’t matter who you want to vote for, but it’s important to know why you chose the candidate.  You should choose according to candidate's strengths and how they plan to improve our nation. Not because of the pigmentation of his skin, age or whatever personal achievements or blunders they made in the past. It doesn’t matter if McCain ranked in the lowest half at a military academy or if Obama’s pastor occasionally preaches radical ideas.

   Look at the real issues at hand and what each candidate offers. If you go to each candidate’s Web site and take note of where they stand on issues such as their economic plan, government reform and how they plan to deal with national security, you can make your own responsible decision.   

“Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company”- George Washington

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