Politics - Educate Yourself

Politics is a hot topic, but it is even more important today, as this is an election season. We have seen the various presidential candidates and what they have to offer. Many of you know who you are going to endorse and some of you are undecided. But, after you watch the news and read various articles, have you ever taken a step back and thought about the various political terms that you hear on the news? Do you know what the terms mean? Over the last several months, I have attended some of the various political events. After talking to some of the attendees, I've assessed that many did not know the candidate's background nor were they familiar with some of the “basic” political jargon.

Example, are you familiar with the following terms:

· Conservative
· Republican
· Democrat
· Blue Country
· Red Country
· Purple America
· Kool-aid Drinkers
· Liberal· Red Wing
· Left Wing

There are more political terms, but these are some of the basics. It is not a bad thing if you do not understand these terms. But, it is vital that you become familiar with them, as doing so will assist you in making an educated political decision. Not to mention, the election process should not be a popularity contest. It should consist of the various issues, the candidate’s background, their political history and what they stand for, etc. But, in many cases that does not happen. The next question is why would someone attend a political event, if they do not know what is going on? Many people that I talked to noted that they had hoped to meet certain people and make some business connections, network, etc.

Do not get me wrong, that is not a bad idea, but you must also know what is going on around you, from a political perspective as well. Please note that I am not endorsing anyone in this article. I am hoping to encourage you to take the time to better educate yourself on the political process. You can learn more about the various political candidates and the process by:

· Reading more about politics and the candidates.
· Watching the various political debates.
· Assessing what the candidates accomplished.
· Assessing their political experience.
· Knowing their platform.
· Go and listen to them speak, if possible.

Voting is a right and do not take it for granted. In order to properly exercise that right, you must equip yourself with the tools needed to make an educated decision.

Please do not vote for a candidate because your friends and relatives have decided to. Select a person that you have properly assessed and feel will do a good job for the American people, no matter what race or gender they are.