Elephant vs. Donkey

I rarely debate politics, partly because there are people out there who eat, sleep and breathe politics, and could probably eat me alive in a debate.  I do not consider myself an expert in political matters (I am far from that), but I do consider myself more informed than some (I know this is a very sad benchmark, but what can I say?), and believe I have exercised my right to vote, responsibly.  Because of my governmental job, I have to be somewhat careful in what I write regarding the political arena, because I cannot come across as campaigning for any particular person or party, so I'm taking a more informative, vague role in this post.

I'm the type of individual that does not enjoy debates, but I do enjoy mature political discussions, respecting others' beliefs.  While I have my own opinions on who I think would make the better leader for our country, I can respect others' differing opinions, as long as they stem from a well-informed decisions.  To each her own, right?

I'm almost reluctant to say, that my more liberal days are behind me, and feel a slight, nostalgic grief towards my wilting liberalism.  When I was in college, I almost felt that spouting off liberal views was my way to rebel against my Southern Baptist family.  I'm not sure why A) I considered this rebellion and B) why I felt the need to rebel, but needless to say, this was my illogical conclusion of badassness, and yes, I'm making that a word.

While I understand that many are concerned with women's rights, and rightfully so, I feel the more pressing matter is focusing on fiscal responsibility and moving this country out of debt.  In this election, I feel you have to select your most important political issue, without having unrealistic expectations that someone can jump in there and "fix" everything, immediately. 

I  would fail myself if I did not mention my concern over this country's impending debt.  I'm not here to blame this on one president.  I'm wise enough to know that previous presidents are able to set events in motion for upcoming presidents, but I do believe that regardless of what was inherited, the fiscal turmoil worsened, and this country needs to be very concerned that whoever is elected, is going to turn this around.

I also realize that health care reform is another large topic during this election.  As someone who has worked in the healthcare regulatory industry for ten years, as well as worked in marketing for one of the largest insurance carriers in my state, I can say that regardless of what the government initiates, businesses are going to find a way to get their money - end of story.  Consumers will end up paying higher premiums.  Insurance companies will spend more time answering to federal government, leaving less time, for fewer employees, to create better solutions outside of raising premiums, and not just in health insurance.  Watch for increases throughout all lines of insurance.  Oftentimes ideas sound good in theory, but the reality is much different, because the government does not always understand the private sector.

I am worried for the future of our divided country, that is fiscally desperate and indebted to China.  Let's pray for God to guide our next leader of the free, but desperately indebted country.