by Quintino Johnson

Created on: September 06, 2008   Last Updated: October 27, 2011

"Don't you dare call me a democrat or a republican! I am an independent. I cannot stand being grouped with democrats or republicans." That was me, the spectator. I placed a keen eye on each candidate about two months prior to Election Day. My evaluation criteria (not in order of precedence): personality, appearance, perceived intelligence, communication skills, proposed plans, perceived trustworthiness, and perceive integrity.

During my short period of actively exercising my citizenship and seriously dedicating time to research issues and positions of the aspiring office seekers, I have voted for both republicans and democrats. I have yet to vote for a third party independent candidate. I estimate my voting record results in a 55/45 split favouring the democratic candidate.

Lou Dobbs, I regretfully rescind my independent party distinction in favor of affiliation with the Democratic Party. One day, I may look to start a new party, or support a third or different party, but for now, I am going to caucus with the democrats.

Why?

Liberty.

Investment in America.

Opportunity.

Freedom from arbitrary or despotic government or control is what liberty means to me. In my opinion, I will best be able to pursue this freedom under democratic officials. From my research I conclude that a majority of republicans say they are for free enterprise and liberty. What that really means is that they support large corporations dependent on government contracts and privileges, and in my opinion, corporate welfare. Look at the recent bailouts and corporate cover-ups.

With the democrats, I see a passion to level out the playing field.

Investment in America. Republicans say they represent free trade, private ownership, sound money, and low taxes. During research I often found that to be deceiving. I found that republican congress men & women, senators, governors, and presidents ran up high budgets while lowering taxes for all. Lower taxes sold as relief from paying for someone else to have a free ride on the bus ride of American prosperity appears to be the republican trademark. At the same time, as deficits run high, they use the deficit as the sole reason to cut investment in America.

* I perceive the Republican Party affiliates to be strongly against the following: investment in the public education system and aid to aspiring college students with the grades and work ethic to succeed that would otherwise not have the resources to attend.
* Universal healthcare for kids. We do not

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