A vote for the future

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November 6, 2012

A vote for the future

Anonymous The Cullman Times The Cullman Times Tue Nov 06, 2012, 01:38 PM CST

CULLMAN — “General Motors, General Mills, General Foods, general ignorance, general apathy, and general cussedness elect presidents and Congressmen and maintain them in power.” — Herbert M. Shelton

Today arrives with great anticipation for two men — one an incumbent president, the other a challenger to all that has happened over the last four years.

And no matter who wins today, if that is truly decided without legal feuding, the country stands to remain polarized through its representatives in Congress.

The election of a president is much like a party. Everyone feels the excitement and waves the party colors until the votes are settled. The losing side takes a brief rest and plans for a better day. The winner glows with joy, enjoys a brief honeymoon and move on to the thankless work of leading a nation.

In recent years, presidents have faced an increasingly difficult Congress. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress have embittered the public with their deadlocks on key issues. Compromise, for the good of the nation, has largely dropped out of existence.

The situation in Congress has left presidents vulnerable to rounds of criticism, sometimes undeserved, because of the stubborn party stances in the House and Senate. That’s exactly why elections are important.

While Americans understandably choose candidates that best suit their political beliefs, party politics is not always the answer to good government. Those who are flexible in their approach to government and offer some appreciation of different views are more successful in governing a nation as diverse as the United States.

By all means, vote your choices today. The presidential race has become heated. The local probate judge race is drawing a lot of interest. Some important amendments, including one of local importance, need attention today.

But above all, vote for someone you trust. Who will lead and be fair when complex issues arise. This day belongs to the people. It’s our time to speak about the direction of communities and nation.

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