Opinion
Look beyond the hypocrisy in politics
Story by Emma Schmautz | April 17, 2008
Montana Kaimin
During this spring season of local political rallies, primary debates and campaign commercials, keep the blue and red glitter out of your eyes.
Candidates make grandiose promises of sweeping change – from claims they can create a government that cares for the needs of every American to pledges that they can drastically limit the scope of our government.
None of these promises can be accomplished in four or even eight years.
Democrats speak of universal healthcare but present no feasible method to pay for it. Republicans talk of cutting taxes and social programs but offer no alternative to people currently dependent on welfare systems.
Both sides are guilty of hypocrisy.
Republicans often run on a platform of freedom but then fight to limit abortion and gay marriage rights. Many Democrats demand the immediate withdrawal from Iraq but champion military action in Darfur.
What American politics needs is a strong shot of realism – not just from the candidates but also from the constituents.
When watching upcoming presidential debates and listening to candidates’ speeches, ignore the catch phrases, campaign slogans and cliché sayings. Break through the murky rhetoric to understand what they are truly advocating and ask yourself if their pledges are feasible.
To the screaming Obama fans who treated his Adams Center rally like a rock concert, to the McCain enthusiasts who claim their man can end economic recession, to the Hillary aficionados who believe the first Madam President will usher in an era of glorious change and to the Ron Paul devotees who sent over 200 messages of ardent hate toward the Kaimin after our apology for lack of Paul coverage – beware of false prophets.
Political activism, participation and excitement is healthy, but worshipping a candidate as an idol you are sure can change the world will only lead to disappointment.
Regardless of your political philosophy, be ever skeptical and cautious. It is one of the oldest rules in journalism, “If your mother said she loves you, check it out.”
No matter how much you support a particular candidate, know that he or she is not a god, nor will his or her opponent ruin the stability of America for years to come.
Don’t be fooled by impossible promises.
Being realistic and being honest with yourself are the strongest tools when deciding which candidate is best for you and for America.
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Comments
I’m sorry you got ‘messages of hate’ after apologizing for not covering Ron Paul. Not his fault, though!
Also, he does actually give statements about ‘bridging’ from the current programs, but is rarely given enough time to discuss more than the ‘end goal’ which, compared to what we have now would cause dislocation.
On social security, for example, he would dramatically cut interventionist spending abroad to cut taxes and restore our monetary system here, and to FUND what he calls our ‘promises to our seniors’ - the vested social security interests. The kids would be let out of the program to put their money where it would actually be there for them when they retire. He’d rather leave it in their pockets, but in this political reality I suspect we are talking about investment accounts, if you look at his health plan (a bill CURRENTLY existing in Congress, no need to wait until after the election to support it.)
He has a plan to get from a to z on each point, but is marginalized with statements such as ‘will abolish social security’ which isn’t helpful in getting him airtime to discuss them.
I always have been wary of false prophets. So what are you going to do when you actually hit on an honest candidate with a 20 year voting record of walking the walk? His record is amazing. I hope you have time to look into him. You really owe it to yourself.
Posted by spinnikerca on 04/17/2008 at 10:00 am
To the author:
Your apprehension and rationale are solid and true, however when practicing the rationale, what candidate does it personally lead you to? Just curious.
Posted by RobBass on 04/17/2008 at 2:51 pm
