Politics. Everyone seems to become overly opinionated when it comes to politics. Are you a Democrat? Are you are a Republican? How do you feel about foreign policy? What about gun control? How do you feel about abortion? And let's not forget the military. If you are anything like me, these questions become rather redundant. However, as November 8th approaches, it may be time to actually begin to research these things if you have not already.
There are three remaining candidates in the Presidential race. Well-known politicians Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are duking it out for the Democratic ticket, and hot-headed businessman Donald Trump is the lone candidate standing for Republicans. This is all pretty common knowledge. However, in the last month or so, the candidates have really brought the heat regarding their hatred for one another. Yes, the two sides historically have different opinions on basically everything. Yes, Hillary and Bernie have differing ideas, even with both being in the same party. And yes, Trump is truly unlike any candidate to ever run for office. However, they bash each other to the extent of becoming superfluous. They each compete for media time, with Trump leading the pack since July 2015. As much as these three are on television, you would probably think people would realize we must soon elect a new President. We must elect someone to lead our country and work to get America out of the trillions of dollars of debt we soak in as well as someone to put their trust in the military. Here are a few things to think about when you cast your vote in November (which is much sooner than it currently appears).
1. Sit down and actually read their takes on foreign policy, gun control, healthcare, etc.
Ladies first! Mrs. Clinton's stances are here. Next we have Mr. Sanders' beliefs. Finally, Mr. Trump's opinions are available here.
2. Think realistically.
After reading each of their stances on the same issues, which one do you truly think will best aid the nation? Do not vote for Hillary just because she is a woman. Really read about the woman. What does she say about abortion and tax write-offs? What about the email scandal? Some things truly cannot be unseen. The same can be said for Trump. Just because he is a Republican does not mean you have to vote for him if you identify as a Republican. And though Bernie is the least double-edged sword of the trio, you should still research his opinions as well. However, keep in mind that the likelihood of fully agreeing with any one of these candidates is slim.
3. Pray.
Please pray for each of these candidates running for President. They each will face unknowns in the remaining months of the race, and the winning President will welcome an alarming amount of backlash from naysayers and their opposite party's politicians also in Washington, D.C. Whoever is elected President will represent our country as whole. Is it not wise to pray for the elected leader of our nation? In 1 Timothy 2: 1-2, KJV, the Lord commands us to pray, saying, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” Is this not what we, as Americans and Christians, should strive for? Should we not seek to lead quiet and peace-filled lives which are godly and honest?
In short, this election might be one of the most grueling and media-consumed elections to date, but fundamentally, it is our jobs as registered voters of America to elect someone we feel will benefit the country as whole. It is our jobs to research each candidate while keeping a realistic sense about each. And, it is our job to pray for these candidates and seek guidance from God as November comes increasingly closer.
