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November 07, 2007
Endorsements (and not)
Two notable endorsements were announced today in the presidential campaign.
Former GOP candidate and current U.S. Senator from Kansas, Sam Brownback, threw his support to fellow Senator John McCain (R-AZ). I am a little surprised by that, because I might have thought former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee to be the recipient. I still have a lot to learn about politics.
Former Christian Coalition president and one-time U.S. presidential candidate Pat Robertson endorsed Rudy Giuliani. I'm actually less surprised (or disturbed) by this than are a lot of observers. A believer in authoritarianism such as Robertson would naturally try to suck up to the perceived frontrunner, who, even though his views on social/cultural issues are different, is still the boss. Or something like that. Call me out (just not angrily, please) if you think I'm off base. (After writing this, I found a comment to pretty much the same effect here.)
Turning to more local matters: I have decided that I will not make a public endorsement in the Tennessee Senate, District 10 race. My vote will be a private matter. I will continue to try to help inform my fellow 10th District residents about each of the candidates, and I consider them both to be worthy of holding the position.
When I was out doing my candidate interviews, I glibly offered to one of these guys that he, his likely general election opponent, and I will have to get together for a beverage after this is all over. The candidate didn't miss a beat and retorted (but with a smile), "when this is all over, I'll invite you and [the other guy] to Nashville to have a beverage with me."
Sure, each man wants to win, and only one of them will. But my point is that both Andy Berke and Oscar Brock are likeable, and more importantly (from all I can tell), trustworthy individuals who will serve the district and the state with honor and respect, even if each would cast certain votes with which I would take exception.
It is critical that you, if you're registered in District 10, get out and vote. Throw those hit pieces you get in the mail from the state parties into the recycling bin, but pick a candidate and vote. Vote early if you have to; even though I'm not early voting's biggest fan, I am glad it is provided for exceptional circumstances. But I hope to see you out a week from tomorrow (that is, on November 15), because that's when I'll be voting.
Presidential Elections , State Senate Elections | By joe lance | 05:47 PM