Election season is ramping up and if you're anything like me, you're probably a bit overwhelmed by the vast amount of candidates lining up for the 2016 election. It looks to be an interesting and exciting year to say the least. With such a diverse group of candidates on the republican side, many of whom have a lot to bring to the table, it might be difficult to narrow down your choice. Here are a few questions to ask to help determine who has your support going into 2016.
1. What are their core positions?
A candidate can talk all day about how they disagree with other politicians' positions and yet never really explain where they stand on pivotal issues. It is important to do your research as to where they actually stand on topics crucial to the direction of this country. Do your research. Form your opinion. Know the in's and out's about each candidate's policies and plans for how to enact them.
2. Does their track record point to presidential success?
What is their political history? Do they have experience in politics or another area? It is a good idea to be familiar with their past involvements, jobs, or political pursuits. This can help you determine whether they have the potential to be successful in the office of president.
3. What is their voting record?
This could influence your opinion of them or trust in their current claims. Ideally, should they have previous political experience, their voting record will match up with their current positions and claims. In essence, this can help to determine whether they have remained steady in their previously stated opinions. If they are drastically different, that might be a red flag.
4. Have they proven credibility?
A candidate's trustworthiness is one of the most important factors in the decision process. The question of whether they have stood true to their values and beliefs is key. It is also vital to check whether they have followed through with any promises they have made while in political positions. If they didn't do it, then what are the odds they will do it now?
5. Can they ultimately win the Electoral College?
Unfortunately, while it would be ideal for us to be able to narrow it down to the perfect candidate, more often than not, they just simply do not exist. And when it comes down to it, we are forced to support the candidate most likely to win the Electoral College. While we must prioritize the values most important to us, we cannot be too particular with the smaller, less important issues. Because, in reality, there will never be a perfect candidate.
In the end, God is the one who will direct the path of this country. However, it is essential to be informed and know the facts about who we will be eventually voting for! So I encourage you to form your own opinions and confidently support your candidate in this extremely pivotal election season for this country. Because your voice matters.
