Pam Bondi for Attorney General...really?

The year 2010 has become one of the most critical election years in the history of our nation. The very existence of this democratic Republic and the US Constitution is at stake. Candidates from every reach of the spectrum have been diligently campaign for every vote. In return, we as responsible citizens must diligently research our choices and make wise decisions based on our value system. I noticed in the past few weeks a small number of "social conservative voters" have thrown their support behind Pam Bondi for Attorney General. Lets look a Pam Bondi through the lens of a social conservative.

In a review of Pam Bondi campaign website I could not find her views on items such as her position on abortion, marriage, adoption, or what was the basis for her decision making process. If these are views a candidate is passionate about, should they not be present somewhere in their literature or website? I was able to find in a press release on her website that she supports the temporary ban on oil drilling. Onward to the web-searches... here is what we found:

• Endorsement by Susan B. Anthony List- A pro-life women's organization that support pro-life women running for office. If two pro-life candidates are running for the same office and one is a woman, they will normally endorse the woman candidate.

• Would not answer whether she supported the "gay adoption ban" in the state of Florida, whereas, both of her opponents clearly supported this ban. (Suncoast Tiger Bay Club event Tampa FL).

• Did not vote in 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 02 & 08 elections. Not voting in the 2002 and 2008 elections are very troubling.

• In her personal life, she has been married twice and is now living with her 60 year old boyfriend. Yes, morality matters.

• Changed parties from Democrat to Republican in 2000. When asked why, she stated that she could not recall why she became a republican when she did. Could it be her democratic boss committed suicide and the State Attorney's office was on it's way to becoming controlled by a Republican?

Pam Bondi appears to be anything but conservative when it comes to social issues. You only have one vote...make it count.

"VOTE THEM ALL OUT" Was Their Battle Cry

As I sat intently at a local tea party event, I was thrilled with the excitement and passion the group had for changing our government. However, one of the rhetorical comments I heard time and time again was "Vote them all out", along with a roar of applause.

I then thought back a few years ago about Venezuela, a beautiful mineral rich country to which I have traveled on business a few times. I saw the rise of a socialist president, President Chavez, that was voted into office. Indeed, a democratic socialist that won the popularity of the people through extreme campaign promises. I then watched in horror as this want-to-be dictator methodically "for the people" began the nationalization/takeover of the private sector of the country. As the discomfort began to brew, and as the economy continued to tank in Venezuela; and as the people became more and more disillusioned, a campaign would ensue... "Vote them ALL out" was their battle cry. During this period of time, many conservative politicians were defeated as a result of this philosophy being used. Now Venezuela has turned into a socialist state on the brink of communism.

Now, in our own country, some politicians are using this philosophy as their campaign strategy, such as Don Browning for Congress District 6 Florida. Early in his campaign he was only using the "we need a change" platform. Now he is attempting to associate his opponent, Cliff Stearns, with Nancy Pelosi! Wow! How is Cliff Stearns like Nancy Pelosi? The fact is, they are nothing alike!

When Don Browning was asked if he would cut defense spending, he answered, "...Lincoln was losing the war so he sent Grant in...he was a heavy drinker ..so he (Grant) sent in extra whiskey..and solved the problem and won the war..." Don, I don't think sending in extra whiskey is going to help you win your election bid.

Candidate Trumped by Teen?

In a recent question and answer time by a local Marion County Florida Candidate running for County Commission, a teen asked the question "What are the core values on which you base your decisions" The Republican candidate replied "my work ethic". Hmmm, do criminals work hard? Is one's work ethic relative? My work ethic may not be your work ethic. President Obama appears to have a great work ethic. He has given more speeches than most presidents and has created a vast amount of policy as president. There must be a basis one governs by. Our founding fathers, as a nation based their decision making process on the Holy Scriptures. Yes, the Bible. The first Continental Congress spent over three hours in prayer and studied 4 Chapters of God's Word.

Another question was asked by a 14 year old teen at the same meeting to the same candidate, "What is your definition of justice?" His answer, "Well, I think everybody should have justice," (laugh) "next question."

Every single elected office is important. It is critical that we as voters carefully evaluate our candidates...and yes, our decisions should be made on character first and foremost...then experience.