The Search for Truth in Politics

This year we face another election. As free Americans, we again assume the responsibility to study the issues, evaluate the candidates, and cast our votes. Because this responsibility can sometimes seem overwhelming, I offer four suggestions to help us feel more confident in our decisions:

1. Evaluate candidates by what they represent, not by what their opponents claim. Whether you are seeking truth about science, religion, or political ideology, it is always better to acquire information from the source rather than from its enemies.
2. Study incumbents’ voting records. Choose those issues that are most important to you and see how they voted. (Legislative voting records can be found at http://www2.state.id.us/legislat/legislat.html.) If you do not agree with or understand their votes, contact them personally and ask them for an explanation. Our local public servants are among the most accessible in the country and will address your concerns honestly and courteously.
3. Do not depend on the media as your only source of information on a candidate. Even those dedicated to accurate reporting have neither the expertise nor the time to explain all aspects of an issue or a candidate. Political opinions as expressed by talk shows and newspaper commentaries do not claim to be unbiased or objective. Their audiences are attracted by controversy, not necessarily by truth. Again, if you want to know, ask the candidate.
4. Beware of political extremists. Ultra-liberals would have unlimited government provide all our wants and needs, regardless of the cost to taxpayers. At the other end, the ultra-conservatives oppose taxes under any conditions; if government were to die a slow, painful death, they would dance on its grave. Practical approaches are often required on budget, tax, education, welfare and other issues. That is why those who take residence in the extreme wings of American politics (Right or Left, it doesn’t matter—both are equally ineffective) will never solve the problems we face in this state and country.

I love the political process! I thrive on the challenge of bringing opposing views together. I like to debate an important issue and watch the faces of my colleagues as they gain new understanding. I enjoy the intrigue of diplomacy and the brilliance of true statesmanship. When it comes right down to it, politics is about getting things done. Speeches, editorials and patriotic rhetoric are fine, but without results, ideals have no real value. Solutions require a practical, pragmatic approach founded on honorable principles.

Pragmatism is America’s most distinctive philosophy. It is based on the principle that an idea is a function of its practical outcome. It is common sense achieved through cooperation, leadership and diplomacy. It is an active way of thinking that has made America prosper. With courage and initiative, good politicians get things done. As we cast our votes again this year, those are the men and women we must seek.

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