When I was younger, I tended to believe that I could pick candidates who had my core beliefs and would consistently lead or vote in accordance with those beliefs. As I aged, I came to realize there is no perfect candidate and all of them usually let you down some of the time. I then started selecting candidates who I feel will remain strong on the issues most important to me.

Currently there are some key issues and our core beliefs should push us to vote for one candidate or the other. There are some fairly striking differences. Ask yourself these questions about the current candidates for any office:

1. Is winning or losing the war in Iraq important to America?

2. Should there be restrictions on abortions?

3. Do you believe that additional taxes on corporations or businesses will cause the prices we pay for goods to increase or decrease?

4. Do you believe that additional taxes on corporations or businesses will increase the number of jobs available or result in a decrease?

5. Do you believe that the news media should elect our governing officials; because it is pretty evident they believe they should?

6. Do you believe that the money the government spends is your money?

7. Do you believe that “pork barrel” spending is a wise way to spend our money?

8. Do you believe that it is the government’s responsibility to take care you financially?

9. Would a socialist form of government be suitable to you?

10. Will the politicians in power next year do those things that will be good for America?

Larry Woody

Vidalia resident