Friday, March 23, 2007

Calling out

I percieve politics in a way of small landmarks rather than a network of meaning. So this is the approach I am taking in making my inquiries. Today I sent an email to each of the candidates. In essence, it requested action on addressing the causes of chronic disease in our nation, rather than how best to finance treating the symptoms. I'll post any responses here as I get them.

I see that Obama is initiating a campaign for local action towards change. It reminds me of the
Ask Not speech of JFK.

Not much developing from Romney.

In comparison of each guy's approach to health care, Romney promotes ideas that will grow insurance, medical, and pharmaceutical industries. Obama promotes healthier community design programs.

When the last presidential election came around, I had trouble believing that there would really be much difference in what came forth from Washington after election day, no matter what anyone was saying. What happened since then, really educated me.

I believe there can be a difference. I continue to hope.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

How to make politics interesting

This time, BiL and I decided we did not want to let the media pundits filter everything that comes to us about the 2008 election. Or maybe it was a very long drive back from Nebraska and we needed something to keep us awake for a few minutes of sandhills interstate between crane sightings.

Anyway, we each took on a potential candidate from both parties. I chose Obama and Romney. BiL chose Edwards and Rudy G. I am ahead, so far, with three facts on each of my possibles:
Obama:
1. Endorsed by Sarah Carter (Jimmy Carter's granddaughter)
2. Has been openly against the war since 2002; Has proposed a plan for troop withdrawal from Iraq.
3. His wife, Michelle, works with hospital community and diversity programs.

Romney:
1. Endorsed by Orrin Hatch, who besides being a Utah senator, writes music Pat Boone might like.
2. Great grandfather was a poligamist and was living in Mexico for that reason, before the Mexican revolution during which the family relocated to Utah. His wife, Ann, has MS and has been really active with programs for kids.
3. Is credited with saving the SLC Olympics from going bankrupt.

It's a start.

What I really want to know, and have not been able to find, are answers for both candidates such as:
1. What kind of car does he drive?
2. Is he oldest, youngest, or middle child of his siblings?
3. Does he go for prevention or cure?
4. Who is really his personal hero? His mentor?

I'll keep ya posted.