3/27/08

Hope for more than politics as usual

by Beckye Randall

These first days of early spring always seem so full of promise and possibilities. Maybe this year I’ll actually put in that vegetable garden. Or even follow through on my goal of going for a daily walk in the mild evening air.

Even politics seem hopeful at this time of year. The campaigns of the presidential candidates are still relatively civil, and the shrill blasts of local politicians and initiative advocates have not yet begun.

Actually, I believe the upcoming presidential election offers more hope than we’ve seen for quite some time. Although this publication won’t endorse a particular candidate in this or any other race, the choices to be made nationally are refreshingly optimistic.

Think about it. Right now Democrats across the country are deciding whether to vote for a determined, brilliant woman with a history of impressive achievements or an inspiring, intelligent man who embodies integrity and strength.

Republicans are being represented by a moderate, a war hero who has spent his life serving the public by building coalitions and staying true to his beliefs, even when that meant going against his own political party.

With candidates of this stature, I can only hope that the dog days of August and September won’t turn their campaigns into wilting, whining finger-pointing noise.

We finally have some candidates who may be able to rise above the 10-second sound bite and the hints of scandal. This presidential election may deliver a person to the Oval Office who is actually... wait for it... presidential.