There is something very, very scary when the only thing the public can say about the candidate they plan to vote for is something negative about the candidate they’re not voting for. I’ve got Democrat friends and I’ve got Republican friends, and I am noticing (even more than in 2004, if to be believed) no one really knows in detail (or no one is talking about) what their candidate stands for. They just know (superficially) why they’re against the other guy.

Few times in this this election cycle have I heard someone say, “I stand for a limited role of government, even though it might adversely affect my portfolio/job/services I need, and that’s why I am voting for McCain.” And defent the pros and cons of such policies.

Or, “I stand for a redistribution of weath to provide healthcare to all citizens, even if it costs me more in taxes, and that’s why I am voting for Obama.” And defend the pros and cons of such policies.

I have so much more respect for people who can defend either side of a position meaningful to them rather than bash the cosmetics and soundbites of another. Taking the time to learn an opposing position makes us smarter about our own. Chastising, insulting, or degradating another position (or candidate) does nothing to solve the real problems we face.  And you wonder why you get mostly cosmetic, fluffy, soundbite-oriented candidates?

BECAUSE THAT’S THE ONLY THING YOU’RE INTERESTED IN.