The political season is in full swing. The different candidates are under constant examination by each other, the media, special interests, and their constituents. Periodically, someone accuses this or that person of flip-flopping on one issue or another. This accusation is intended as a challenge to that person's sincerity and depth of conviction.
This sort of exchange may get traction with the voter, but I think it is highly overrated. Over the course of my life, there are many subjects on which I have changed my opinion. Sometimes, it was because I simply matured. Other times, I received new information which altered my perception. For example, at one point in my life, I considered myself to be a Democrat. At a different period in my life, I was a card carrying Republican. Today, when someone asks, I say I am a political cynic.
If we are going to relate honestly with ourselves and with political candidates, we must allow that there are times when people will change their minds. The only people I know who never change their minds are closed minded boobs, people so arrogant they believe their first judgment is always right and never needs to be reconsidered. Do we really want such persons serving in elected office? I don't! In fact, one of the characteristics I look for in leadership is the ability to receive and consider advice.
So, it doesn't bother me too much when I hear that a particular politician who once embraced one position is now advocating something different. What I want to know is how that person explains the change. I want to know where that person stands on the issue today and why. I'll make my voting decisions based on how closely I agree with the candidate's position in the present.
That's my two cents.
Wade Houston
September 4, 2007
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1 comment:
I thought this was going to be about the flip flop shoes.
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