Politics Need to Get Social

I recently read an article on George W. Bush appearing on Facebook to promote his new book. At first, I was confused. I didn’t realize that Facebook provided a platform for people to promote things. However, as much as I hate to admit it, I think it’s a great idea. I would like to see more politicians reaching out via social networks. This would be a great way to connect with younger Americans. Obama used social networking to get elected to office; however, he hasn’t used them again. If he were to use Facebook, Myspace, Blogger, etc. to speak on political issues I believe he could get a strong following of young adults. The biggest cause of noninvolvement from this group is simply being unmotivated to dig out issues and information. If government was presented in a method that is understandable and easily accessible, I believe more people would get involved. George W. Bush is using facebook to promote a book. Why can’t Obama use it to explain his health care plan in words that are relatable to young adults? Why didn’t recent candidates during elections use any method of social networks? There is a whole genre of young people that are left out of campaigning and if someone could tap into the social networks, I feel they would have far greater support and more votes.

Debate of Our Own

I really enjoyed reading Rick Trevino’s  opinions on the Perry/White debate debacle, especially considering we have different viewpoints. I believe that campaigning is a mix of media, speaking, articles, etc. that lets the people become more acquainted to the candidates. For the incumbent to basically hold an ultimatum to his opponent and fail to show up to a debate is rude. He is voted for and working for the people. To deny the people the right to hear a debate seems unjust. He wanted White to disclose his previous tax records and since White wouldn’t, Perry stated he wouldn’t debate. I feel as though that is for the people to decide. I believe that we have an intelligent voting pool. If a voter sees that White refuses to disclose something then they will make their own decisions based on this action. Perry is not some God sitting on a thrown that we all bow down to. He is a man that wants to get elected.

I do see his point and it is valid. I suppose that this situation hit me on a more moral level then thinking about the strategic move it in. Strategically it may have been very smart for him to not show. However, I personally don’t like the man at all.

Stop Harassing My Ears!

                I would think that politicians would use a 45 second commercial spot to give us as viewers a reason to vote for them. But instead I find smear campaigns filling my television. I watch television to get away from the real world for a bit. If Patrick Rose had a campaign commercial that said “I’ve done a good job…I’ve done this and this and this”, I’d think “Wow, that’s basic and honest”. But instead I get “Everything said about Patrick Rose is WRONG! His opponent has spent X amount of money and said X and X that is false and unethical”. Do you know what this makes me think? He cares more about being an asshole to his opponent then he does about being honest about issues. It makes me think that he hasn’t done enough in his term to stand on his actions alone. Is this true? I honestly don’t know. I do know that his “serious/mad face” is highly amusing.

                Thank you politicians for filling my “me” time with drama. Lord knows we could all use more bickering and drama in our lives. The last thing we need is someone with honesty and sheer ambition to make a difference in government (/sarcasm).  The bottom line is that it’s easier to say what your opponent did wrong than what you did right. You think that if you can show that they are bottom of the barrel losers I’ll vote in your favor. I would vote based off of principle alone if politicians would stop using kindergarten playground- fighting techniques. Say something meaningful. Here is a thought….why don’t you do something that shows us something. Give your words some action behind them. Volunteer, be honest, have integrity, and fight with dignity.

Dear politicians, I would really like for you to quit ruining my shows with your whining.