I've talked briefly about political parties before, and I'll address it once again. I don't care which political party you stand for. Both value different things, have different visions for America's prosperity. Which is fine, because practically, you need a bit of both to truly have a balanced and efficient country. What I don't believe, however, is that either political ideology is inherently worse than another, and doesn't support basic human rights and happiness.
People, on the other hand, are very different from ideology. They change their mind, act without reason, and altogether can be very hypocritical. Which is why it's impossible to entirely base your vote on a person that says they represent a certain party and their ideals. Not only are you assuming they follow those ideals to a T, you are also assuming that you support those specific ideals to a T, which can actually prove to be even more faulty.
Instead, take a look at the candidate. First, evaluate his/her experience. Have they been in a position of leadership before? What actions did they take in that position that benefited their constituents? If they made mistakes, did they fix them and move on? Learn from them? It's so important to do a thorough background check on your own. And please, for god sakes, take everything the media tells you with a spoonful of salt. Even channels are skewed based on political parties, and you can't fully trust everything they claim without some evidence or context, which you must find out for yourself.
Next, introspect. What do you want out a political candidate? What problems are you keen on fixing, and how do you want to see that action played out? Think well and hard about your own political agenda before you jump to conclusions. Though the parties may be strictly separated, we are all a mix between the two, including you. So really think about what you care about, what affects you, as well as your community. Needless to say, in times like these, its so important to focus on the common good than just yourself. Write your thoughts down on paper or on your phone, so you don't forget, and you can keep updating, and revisiting.
Once you've understood your own vision for society, compare it to all the candidates. And I mean read, listen, and interpret what they say they have done, and are going to do, by yourself. Don't rely on snippets provided in the media; they may not tell the full story. Research and find the full clip, the full speech. And only trust yourself, and maybe those closest to you. People will try and convince you left and right, spitting facts and opinions, and there's no way to know which is which. You are your best friend in this.
Lastly, consider the candidates' charisma and speaking ability. Do they connect with their audience? Are they sincere, genuine, passionate about their role? Especially for higher offices, like governor, senate and of course POTUS, you must feel a connection to them. And any good leader, no matter the political party they represent, will cater to the entire population, not just their party, their specific group of supporters. Because they are serving that entire city, state, and country, not just a potion.
In the end, political party is just a vision of reality, that no one leader is going to live up to. It's up to you all to educate yourselves, understand the candidate for who he/she is, and truly make the right choice for yourself, and your community.
So get out there, and vote. Because it matters.