Most people probably won’t read this post until the debate is over, but Saturday night on ABC (at 5pm in AK) there will be a debate between presidential candidates. I haven’t watched a debate since the early fall, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the candidates have changed (or, preferably, remained unchanged). With the early states caucusing in the late winter I realize that a candidate will be handed to me before the primaries, but it’s still fun to examine the options. If you miss the telecast, you can catch the online feed on Yahoo.
There are several sites on the web which gather information about candidates. One such site is 2012 Presidential Candidates which has interesting information on several issues. Lately I’m remembering the election 8 years ago when I was finishing college and an economics classmate was lamenting all the “single issue voters” who in his mind were unenlightened idiots. Now I find myself in the position of choosing from a handful of candidates who (at least on paper) support my view of the abortion issue, and trying to determine who is genuine in their stance, and who is merely political. Which candidate really has what it takes to support not only this issue, but truly understands the economics of running a country successfully? Give me a candidate who both understands the value of God-given, god-imaged life (from sperm-meets-egg), and supports a Smithian view of economics, and I’ll show you one smart cookie.
December 9, 2011 at 3:00 pm
I’m not as concerned with abortion as I am with freedom. I know, that sounds terrible, but hear me out. The abortion issue is not something that is really on the table… and I’m not sure how Roe v. Wade is going to be thrown out. However, u`ltimately, I don’t think that’s the problem. People always have the choice NOT to abort their children. It’s a heart issue… and we can legislate all we want, but until people have God’s revelation of truth and right is there any point in feeling good about certain legislation? Look at what the war on drugs has accomplished? Not less drug use. I think a ban on abortion would accomplish the same. (Please don’t take this argument to say that I’m not 100% pro-life… I just think a different solution would be more effective. I would do whatever I could to help someone bring their baby into the world.)
That said, I think someone that stands for personal freedom would make a great president. Personal freedom to make healthcare choices, money spending choices, drug and alcohol use choices, parental choices, etc. etc. etc. … I am very concerned by the increased level of government involvement in people’s everyday lives. Living in Seattle one gets to see first hand how ridiculous it can get.
I’ve been reading Econ Log for a couple of years… GMU profs… most of whom are libertarian and they always have interesting things to say. They are very much fans of Hayek and his economic perspective. I think you would probably find Hayek to make a lot of sense. Anyhoo, enjoy the debate! Always fun to chat econ and politics.
December 9, 2011 at 5:59 pm
Sally, I knew you would be the first to post! Good reminder about the heart issue being at the core of atrocities. I do struggle with that being an overwhelming thought when I survey the course our country is on. Then I remember that, in the end, Jesus will return and reign forever at the right hand of God. And, although it is impossible to legislate morality, on this single issue I am compelled to vote in whichever way may result in less children murdered. And while those candidates who hold to this position do not always hold to solid economic principles, I am thankful that there is usually an economically sound candidate who does. Of course, they’re usually not electable. I’ll have to check out Econ Log. The Austrians are right on
Sally, when is your presidential primary? Are you like us, just sweeping up after the party?
December 11, 2011 at 10:19 pm
Washington isn’t having a 2012 primary. They voted not to do it to save the state 10 million. It matters not, I’m voting for Ron Paul. One, he wipes the floors with people in debates. He totally knows what freedom is about and he’s consistent… always has been. It’s so insanely maddening that the media completely ignores his existence. I think if he got any air time whatsoever he would be polling much better. Additionally, he’s the only candidate that isn’t pretty much an exact cookie cutter of what’s already in Washington. Having lived 15 minutes from Mass. I wouldn’t vote for Romney if someone paid me. His healthcare plan is the worst ever and is bankrupting the state. And Newt? That guy is a crook. Perry can’t speak in a complete sentence and although well intentioned, Bachman is a mess. She reminds me of Palin. Neither one has what it takes to handle the highest office in the country. Sadly, economically speaking there’s so little difference between Dems and Reps that it’s laughable. No one governs on principle anymore, it’s all catering to the populist whims of the moment. No matter what they say on the campaign trail, when they get in office it’s all… keep me in office. To heck with what I said to get here! Except Ron Paul… and I respect that.
December 12, 2011 at 8:21 am
I love how you say it Sally, I think I’m coming to the same conclusions. Admittedly, I was holding out some hope that although Romney appears to be a democratic in Republican’s clothing, he might possibly be a much more different candidate than he appears. Kind of a silly hope, huh? Ditto the Bachman comment. Did you hear her “Newt Romney, Newt Romney, Newt Romney” address on Saturday? Oh dear, Mrs. B. This might be the first election where my hubby and I will be split, he can’t bear the thought of decreased military spending
My only thought on Mr. Paul is wondering how in the world he will be able to accomplish anything in the White House when his positions are generally so drastically different from those of other legislators. It won’t stop me from voting from him, but I’m curious.
December 14, 2011 at 7:16 pm
Romney… All you have to do is be in Massachusetts for an hour to know you never want that guys as president. It’s the WORST managed, most highly regulated state I’ve ever been to. Ridiculously so. I can’t believe he goes around bragging about their healthcare plan.
I’m not so worried about cutting defense spending. I don’t think there’s an area of government that couldn’t stand to see some budget cuts. I don’t see the military as something that is perfectly efficient. They are, after all, government funded. But that said, I don’t think that Ron Paul is anti-military, just anti-nation building. I think there are some misconceptions about Ron Paul’s stance on the military. I would encourage Kevin to look into it more. One other thing I’m stoked on about Ron Paul is his attitude toward the Fed. That institution has gotten completely out of control. I’m with Milton Friedman, replace it with a computer and save us a few kabillion
December 13, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Can you do me a favor and ask Randy if he got (both) my emails reminding him of his Secret Santa? He left a VM for me on my cell while I was out of the country and I don’t have his phone number. I sent an email a few weeks ago when Kevin asked and then re-forwarded it to him yesterday. Would appreciate it!
December 13, 2011 at 8:21 pm
It’s been a while since I’ve told you, but Lee, you’re the best!! I can’t wait to see more of your blogging from your trip. I look forward to your witty anecdotes.
December 16, 2011 at 8:58 pm
Lee, Randy said for you to tell me who he has so I can do some shopping. I don’t mind at all. Thanks for doing this.
Carolyn