Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Florida Primaries

Today's Florida Primaries were interesting to say the least.

On the Republican side, Giuliani appears to be on the verge of dropping out of the race while McCain is pushing ahead and starting to make a case as the front runner for the Republicans. On the Democrat side, Clinton beat Obama.... badly. Congrats to Hillary, but it really means nothing. Because of Florida trying to get in their primaries before "Super Tuesday" all Democratic delegates are null and void and not counted into the race for the nomination. Neither candidate spent much time in Florida for just that reason. Only 4 states are allowed to hold their primaries before Super Tuesday and Florida is not one of them. For breaking that rule, the Democratic party will not accept and Florida delegates at their convention in August. This basically means that Florida would not play a part in the 2008 election unless the Democratic nominee acknowledges them, which they would be stupid not to. Florida has proved vital in past elections (need I remind you of CHADs??) and to turn a deaf ear on them could prove suicidal politically.

Also - The next round of debates are this week. Republicans on Wednesday - Democrats on Thursday. Both are on CNN starting a 8pm. Tune in and get involved!!

Silly Democrats... Go Obama....

On the home front - I start my career tomorrow. I was offered a position with the Music and Arts Center as an Educational Sales Rep in South Jersey. It's a good start in a growing company - benefits, company car, nice salary... I can't complain. Plus, I'll be able to continue teaching marching band in the fall which is excellent.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Election

I have participated in the last 2 Presidential elections, but never really followed too closely. I voted based off of opinions of my Dad as well as the LITTLE bit of research I may have done.

This year I have jumped in with both feet. I have been watching a lot of stuff on CNN and reading on the major news internet sites about the different candidates, their positions and beliefs. I don't consider myself an expert on Politics in any way shape or form, but I do have this message: GET INVOLVED. Do some reading, find out who backs you up as much as is possible in modern politics and GO VOTE FOR THEM. Vote in the primaries and the major election. Just go out and do it.

I am not one to preach Republican or Democrat, but I will admit I am registered as a Republican. Basically, my Dad is 100% Republican and when I registered, I figured I was supposed to vote the same way. No offense Dad, I appreciate the fact that you have gotten me interested in politics at all! However, this year I have done the research and done my reading. I am supporting Barack Obama for the next President of the United States of America. That is all I am going to say about that, you can like it or dislike it and you are more than entitled to your opinion.

I just want to reiterate my point from above. Read a little, Watch a little, take 5 mins a day and check CNN.com. DO NOT just go into that booth blind in November. If you are not registered to vote, DO SO NOW to ensure your eligibility for the 2008 election. Another source I found helpful to point me in the right direction was The Electoral Compass. It will ask you a series of questions about different issues and then tell you who most supports and least supports your views. Take the quiz and take your time, really think about the 20 something questions. It will help!

GO VOTE!!