The "Other" Political Parties

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After last night's debate (or political debauchery, whichever you prefer), I am more confident than ever in my Presidential choice. I am frustrated by a political system that has limited itself to only two, viable political parties that are polar opposites. There are at least three additional parties that fall somewhere in between that vast crevasse of political leanings and should be just as viable: The Constitution Party, The Green Party of the United States and The Libertarian Party.

For me, like many others, this election has become one of choosing the lesser of two evils. I can't ... no ... I won't cast my vote based on who I fear the least. I've given too much of myself to this country to disrespect the political process in that way.

Add to that the fact that, with the electoral college in place, and living in a "Blue" state, my vote for anyone other than Obama won't count anyway, I've decided to vote my conscience rather than voting for a candidate who doesn't meet my needs.

Anyone know this guy? My guess is that you don't, but he will actually appear on your Presidential ballot in November. Meet Bob Barr. He's the Libertarian Party Presidential candidate. His general position? Smaller government, lower taxes and more freedoms. More specifically, he shares my views on many of my critical issues.

Education - "School reform starts by shifting control over education from government to parents. We must abolish the Department of Education, eliminate federal grants and regulations, and begin moving power back to the states and local communities."

Entitlement Programs - "Government should stop acting as the welfare agency of first resort under the guise of providing social insurance. In general, private charity should be the first resort for anyone in need. The process of welfare reform begun by Congress in 1996 should be continued to reduce even further people’s dependence on Washington."

Health Care - "Today’s health care problems are complex, but the solution is not socialized medicine in any form. Countries that have nationalized their medical systems inevitably ration care through the political system; costs are driven down only by denying needed care."

Border Security and Immigration - "The border can never be completely open or completely closed. But the starting point of any immigration policy is to secure the borders to the extent possible. Equally important, we must end government benefits and services for illegal immigrants. The U.S. also should reconsider the policy of “birthright” citizenship."

There are many folks out there who are comfortable with making a choice between McCain and Obama, I am not one of them. If you share my disdain for these two candidates, take the time to research the "other" candidates - the ones who just might be far more centered, pragmatic and realistic.

Exercise your right to vote, but don't let the Republicans and Democrats fool you into thinking they are your only options.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~