I think I would have an easier time with the competitive nature of this election and have more respect for the GOP and its followers if it were an honest conversation.
Unfortunately at it's core, that is simply not to be.
The most enduring case in point is the Obamacare argument made to the public by the GOP and it's various mouthpieces. The GOPs public campaign against Obamacare is fundamentally dishonest in it's reliance on such mistruths as death panels, being gov't run, resulting in higher premiums based upon studies from Koch funded entities, leading to worse medical services for the public, etc.
And it is but the most obvious of examples.
Today we hear the new GOP argument that Obama refuses to work with those across the aisle, which is again, an out and out lie.
I remember back when Bush won and he summarily announced that bipartisanship meant Democrats coming over to his side of the aisle and the GOP's positions. For the last four years we've watched the GOP leadership led by McConnell, Cantor and Boehner publicly vowing not to give the Obama administration any legislative victories no matter the cost to our country. And that's exactly what's transpired at the expense of real people. In the last four years we've had more filibusters and legislative blocks than ever before (Remember the GOP cries of "Up or down vote?) To every jobs bill, health bill, education and veterans bill. Anything with the stamp of Democratic leadership on it no matter how sound or beneficial to our country.
Clearly there are many such examples. Sadly more than necessary to make my point.
Dear GOP, rather than obfuscation, run on what you believe, and let this be an election about policy and character and direction.
It would be so nice if we could let the public make an informed decision based upon their own desires and principals rather than being tricked into handing the GOP power. But we've clearly passed the point of no return. We now live in a win at all costs political system where the costs could not be greater.
Behind the obfuscation of the GOPs policies "lies" a group of advisors who's background and positions are known, and it's not good.
If there's any case to be made to the public that moves beyond the "he said, she said" of the debates, beltway news shows and craptastic commercials, it's that the public needs to take a good look at and understand exactly who are behind the GOP candidates, helping them shape policy and often pulling the strings. Only then will the public know just what lays in store should Romney and his party be successful. And I honestly don't think a majority of the public would support many of those policies.
So what can you do? Ask the question. Ask the question on boards, in letters to the editors, to your friends and fellow employees (and employers). Ask who is behind Romney and would you support their policies?
Are you ready for another rush to war in the Middle East with Iran or in Syria (as opposed to working towards solutions with the club of war held back until absolutely necessary?)
Are you willing to let millions more go uninsured and thousands die because of lack of decent or any medical care?
Will vouchers solve our medicare or education problems?
Can you support making everyone currently under 55 wait a few more years to become eligible for Social Security? Say at 67 or more years old.
Will entrusting the wealthy with more of our countries finances result in our economy growing and people being put back to work?
If only this were an honest dialogue.