July 25, 2024
As we head into the last few days of this election primary season, who we vote for is critical. Just as important as to who we vote for is how we came to our decision and why we are voting for them.
I am personally disappointed that yet again I am forced to conclude with many candidates, I am still left with having to choose between the least problematic of our options, rather than having the best of the best available candidate/s for whom to cast my vote. Why do we as voters, (in my opinion), continue to face this same dilemma every voting cycle? Why is it, there is never appearing to be a Best Candidate to vote for? A candidate that truly stands out as a servant leader in all facets of their life and holds true conservative Judeo/Christian values, at the forefront of everything they do?
Unfortunately, the answer to this question is multi-faceted. Here are some of my reasons I think we find ourselves yet again, falling into the definition of insanity:
- We as voters have given up our desire to learn about candidates and their backgrounds. We vote far too often based on talking points and a candidate’s personal likability rather than ability and qualifications.
- We have acquiesced our opinions and our scared vote based on opinions of others. Yet unless that other person is a true close friend, do we really know what might be their personal agenda or even hidden agenda?
- We tend to listen to others simply because they are a well-known individual or even a celebrity of some sort. Why are we not talking to, or questioning the candidate/s themselves?
- We have forgotten how to engage our candidates in meaningful dialog and question as many candidates as possible on issues of real importance. For many, it is because they do not wish to be seen as confrontational.
- We have allowed candidates to run and hide in the shadows rather than demanding each candidate speak truth to power by openly debating their opponent and put to rest negative or certainly perceived negative statements and biased information.
- They are not from here: How often have we all heard this as a reason not to vote for someone? Really? Just look around at those who are currently in office: As many of them are from here. Ask yourself, How have they voted on significant issues and concerns for,” We the People”? Have our candidates and elected officials been completely transparent with our Yavapai voters? (Yes, this is a rhetorical question). Are they truly the BEST Qualified for the job?
Remember longevity is not indicative of a candidate’s ability to perform or guarantee they have the needed acumen for a position of trust.
These are several of my reasons we continue down the same path of voting insanity every election cycle. Please feel free to add your reasons.
The fact remains: If we are to demand and expect better of our candidates and elected officials, then we must also demand and expect better of ourselves on how we as voters vet our candidates.
These are my thoughts alone. You are welcome to share or disregard.
