My 2 Cents... by Nathan R. Starnes

I know Staci has been forced to pacify concerned friends and family that her husband has lost his mind, and or religion, for supporting Barack Obama for President. Well, I thought I would take the time to tell you why I am voting for Mr. Obama. I believe Obama is what’s best for our nation, which is facing challenging and confusing times that require even-tempered, clear-minded leadership. When the partisanship of this election finally subsidies, I believe Obama is the man who can reach reasoned conclusions, reach across the political divides, and reach out to the common American.

So, please indulge me as I explain:

Intelligence and pragmatism. I have been impressed by the intelligence of Obama’s campaign over the last several months. He continues to make intelligent and measured decisions, a quality I think is important in a confused and conflicted world. Obama carefully and steadily guided his campaign and managed to defeat the “Clinton political juggernaut.” Obama has demonstrated time and time again his ability to identify a weakness in an enemy and attack in measured doses without bravado or stupidity.

I find Obama to be fluent about the problems facing America, and in particular, middle America. The problems we face are enormous and multi-faceted. Obama consistently details workable solutions. Conversely, McCain lays out flat one-liners or purely reactionary responses to Obama’s plans. I have not heard any clear and persuasive solution on his part.

A responsible fiscal policy. I acknowledge that neither candidates’ position is perfect but I have a difficult time ignoring the financial problems in America. The income gap between the haves and have-nots in America is shameful and continues to grow wider and wider. I certainly don’t advocate for a “Robin Hoodesque” rich giving to the poor scheme. Rather, I believe in enriching the poor and the middle classes thereby lifting all. It would be reverse Reganomics . . . “trickle-up” economics if you will. Over the last 50 years the wage gap has increased the most under republican leadership. It causes unrest and hatred in the country. Obama speaks to this and it's important.

Clear and Powerful Leadership. The last month have seen two men fumble and bumble their way to delays in the financial rescue of our country. Mr. Bush gave one heady speech over the radio to the public that was unconvincing and McCain “suspended” his campaign to push himself into the spotlight that ultimately derailed delicate negotiations. We needed a leader to spell out the gravity of the problem before us. We needed someone to convince the American people to act swiftly and courageously in supporting their congressman on passage of a financial rescue that may have been too little too late in stopping a credit freeze that may see us fall into the worst economic times the country has seen since the great depression, it remains to be seen if the bailout will work.

There is something to be said for a Leader who inspires confidence and can communicate effectively with those he or she leads. Obama inspires confidence as was evident when nearly 15,000 people flocked to Taco Bell Arena in Boise, Idaho for a political rally emoting charisma and political rock-star appeal.

Intelligent International Policy. McCain argues that foreign policy is his strong point and that he brings experience to the international arena, unfortunately I don’t believe that he would have any unifying effect in international relations. Obama’s visit to Germany a few months back was inspiring. I believe America holds an important moral ground on the world stage. Bush has tarnished that in large part because he doesn't know how to talk to people coherently. Obama's willingness and ability to inspire through rhetoric and find common ground is what America needs to bolster its tarnished image to the world. I find is scary to think how McCain’s smugness displayed during the debates would resonate during political discussions with the leaders of Iran or North Korea.

American men and women continue to sacrifice their lives abroad and it is maddening. McCain is looking for any excuse possible to stay in Iraq. Any setback and he'll be ramping up our involvement in the name of victory. His rhetoric on this subject frightens me. We need to responsibly hand over control of Iraq to Iraqi's. An intelligent and measured withdrawal is necessary and America must get out as quickly and responsibly as possible.

Yes, I am a practicing, faithful member of the LDS Church and yes, a faithful Mormon can vote Democrat! President Faust, a former apostle of the LDS church, was a democrat. More importantly however, I don’t believe it is productive for a religion to align itself solely with one party. Each fall the standard letter is read from the pulpit stating that the Church does not align itself with any political party.

I recognize that neither candidate is without flaws but I believe a reasoned approach, viewing the totality of the individuals and campaign are required. I certainly disagree with Obama on certain issues, but I find that I agree with his approach and policy and many more. I will not be held hostage by a political party based on discrete issues and abrogate my responsibility to truly judge the candidate by the entirety of their message. Hence, Barack Obama will be receiving my vote on November 4th.

Let’s be honest, I live in Idaho and my vote for Obama counts for little in the big picture. I also realize that many disagree with my position and I wrote this not to convince but to help others understand my position. Please don’t hold my political views against my wife, she had no idea what she was getting into when she married me! J Also, I don’t need you to send me slanted and inaccurate comparisons between the political candidates… I have done me research, hence my writing this piece. Thank you and “good night now!”