By VERNON N. KERRLos Alamos
Why do I belong to a political party?
We can pick a reason but most likely the reason is that the party we pick is the one our parents belong to. A political party usually represents the values of the home. Chances are that if grandpa and pop were Democrats, you are, too. There is not a lot of hard thinking involved in registering in a political party.
In the beginning of our nation, our first leader, George Washington was opposed to political parties because he felt that they would lead to non-productive political bickering and divert energy away from necessary and productive work. Indeed, that is the case today. Currently, Congressional Democrats are engaging almost exclusively in trying to unseat a duly elected President. In doing so, the Progressive wing of their party does everything possible to skirt our Constitution.
Political parties have value despite their shortcomings. They provide a source of support for political platforms and candidates. The values espoused bring people together in a common bond. Candidates represent values and people support candidates for how they demonstrate those values. It does take a little work on the part of the voter to study candidates and their positions. Sometimes people vote on unreasonable premises. When I was running for State Representative, I once had a person vote for me because I had the same first name as his father!
Sometimes people change party affiliation because of a certain candidate’s stands or positions of that party. These people are the “cut and runners”. They would rather run than stay and fight for principles they believe in. Parties can be subverted and come under control of radical elements to the detriment of the party. This is difficult, but not impossible, to counter.
Many people are not informed about our government and our country’s founding. More study should be devoted to this in our schools. Voters should educate themselves before the election takes place. If you find a candidate you agree with, volunteer to work on his or her campaign.
Don’t give up the opportunity to participate in supporting your values and positions. Get involved, speak up, and your voice will be heard.