This years' upcoming Presidential Race has left me feeling that I had no choice for president, as I have not been a strong supporter of either candidate. I am definitely a conservative, however I have never cast my vote for a candidate just because they are the chosen one running on the conservative ticket. The biggest reason for McCain not having my full support is that I feel he is the most liberal of all the Republican candidates that ran and his short-temper that he displayed during the presidential race 8 years ago. It saddens me that the conservative party has chosen the most liberal Republican candidate to represent our views and values. I have been struggling with if I would go ahead and vote for him just because he is the chosen Republican candidate to help keep Obama from being elected or if I would just sit this election out.
Senator McCain's VP choice definitely surprised me and at first I was disappointed that he didn't choose Mitt Romney even though I had my doubts that they would be able to work together. Once it was announced that it was Governor Palin, I started my research to find out more about her. Of course I love the state of Alaska, but that wouldn't weigh in on my decision, and she was not governor when we lived there, so I didn't know anything about her. I was impressed with her when she spoke when they announced she was the VP choice and also with her speech at the RNC the other night. She seemed to represent my conservative views and I liked her fiesty spirit and that it was obvious she will be able to "hang and stand up" to the good old boy politicians. I liked that she is a mother, a successful woman, basketball player (my favorite sport) and also so down to earth. I was really feeling good about supporting the McCain ticket even though I really didn't want to support him.
But there are a few things that trouble me about her. That she could choose such a demanding job that will leave her very little time to spend with her family and especially her special needs baby. I respect her for being supportive of her pregnant teen-age daughter, but it also concerns me that she would take this job knowing that her daughter's pregnancy would be played out in the National Media. As a mother, I could never do that no matter how prestigious the job may be, because my most important role is the one of Mother and I would be willing to sacrifice my ambitions to ensure that my children and family's needs were met first.
Even though I would not make the choices she is making as a Mother, does that make her less qualified to serve as V.P.? Does this mean she is not as conservative or hold the values I was looking for in a presidential candidate conservative ticket? Will she lose my vote based on how I judge her as a Mother? The answer is "NO".....because I started thinking, am I looking for someone that will make a good VP or am I looking to vote for someone solely on whether I judge her to be a good Mother? I still feel she will make an excellent VP and still represents most of the core conservative values that I hold dear. So for now, I am still leaning towards the McCain/Palin ticket, but will continue to research and learn more about her during the rest of the campaign and during the debates.
I would like to hear your opinions on Governor Palin, it helps to hear all views in order to make an informed educated decision.
9 comments:
I feel where you are coming from Cherie. But, we have to remember that we don't know all the intimate details of how her children are cared for. But, one big thing I have to remember is she doesn't have the gospel. I think she is probably doing the best she knows how to with the knowledge she has. I have wondered if she feels a sense of a need to make a change in the world while trying to do her best as a mother. Some people are called to such miraculous things in their life and are willing to rise to the occasion and unfortunately sometimes it takes away from family. I'm not saying that I exactly approve of how she goes about doing things concerning her family, but I sure do admire her for taking on such a huge challenge and having the guts to try to make a difference. I've realized in my 33 years that we are all trying to fulfill our dreams and make a difference in the world while trying to raise our family. It can be a grueling balancing act. - Just my opinion
Cherie, I enjoyed you analysis, you make for a real good political pundit. As for my commits on the Governor of the “Great State of Alaska” – Sarah Palin…
“Sassy Lady”
I like her wit, sarcasm and sincerity, courage and strength. My opinion, she showed us a new model of female politician. Her family stories were genuine and real. Her commitment to special-needs children was moving. Her contempt for special interests was obvious.
She is very impressive up close and has a freshness and newness in her perspective that reminds one of a cold, bracing, clear Alaskan wind! Wakes you up and feels good.
So now, as an independent voter, I will watch to see what happens...love you, scott
Very insightful Cherie Lynn - I am impressed. I hadn't thought of some of the points you discussed. Gives me more to think and brood over in the coming weeks - I enjoy reading your blog and thanks for the moral support you are giving me right now - love you! Lisa
I think we would all be better if all the great mothers out there shared a bit more of themselves with their communities. I always thought, "who in the world would want to be president?" and I am grateful that there are people willing to have every aspect of their life and decision they made publicly scrutinzed. I am also excited that our children will grow up in a world where they will know they can do anything regardless or sex, race, or religion. I am very excited to see her on the ticket!
i agree and ditto everyone's comments. i personally am estatic to see a strong female in politics WITH integrity, it is a refreshing change from Hillary (just my opinion) who doesn't seem to be seeking the role for power but truly for the benefit of the nation, people. I feel the pregnancy makes it seem more real, the struggles we all go through. We may teach abstinence, but that doesn't mean our children won't make mistakes- but we still love and support them. And I agree with Cecily that she is doing the best with what she's been taught to do. I like how you said we are not judging her as a mom but as a VP. She might be able to change the world of special needs, thus benefiting families in that area throughout the whole nation and the future-she is sacrificing some to try to bring about change for the better for all moms, families. Great post Cherie!
can i just say "ditto" to your whole blog, very well written!
I appreciate all your comments and views! Gives me some different perspectives to think on. Thanks!
I am very excited at the prospect of Governor Palin being in the White House. I too have researched and I love what I see. In my opinion, she is the epitome of a Christian mother trying to make the world a better place for her children. Her political "career" began as president of the PTA where she worked so that her children would have the best education possible. From there she saw corruption in her city and ran for Mayor. Now she is Governor and during this time she has had a baby. To me that says that she is not putting her family on hold for her career, but that her family is a top priority in her life. Also, her daughter is recently pregnant...could she say to her daughter "you are the reason I refused the chance to be vice president" That could have been even more devastating. Just my thoughts
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