Next president: Which one do you choose?
By: Milo A. Nickel
In the next election, amid the turmoil of grave problems that threaten the very existence of our country, our ideals and our way of life, we will go to the polls in November to elect a new president.
What kind of president will we elect? What qualities of leadership? What kind of ability, intelligence, broad brushed experiences will we judge a candidate on who will hold the most important and difficult job in the world?
Strange as it may seem, there is an absence of serious concern by the majority of our people. We are so accustomed to assuming everything will work out as it always has; we give little thought to the grave dangers that exist in this country and in the world.
We are so preoccupied with our own problems we are prone to “let George worry about it.”
At this time, it looks like we will have to vote for McCain, Obama or Clinton to be the next president of the United States and the Commander in Chief of the armed forces.
What criteria do we consider in making decisions? What qualifications, experience and track record does a candidate have to have in order for us to vote for him or her?
Without being critical, it seems odd and somewhat disappointing to me that in this great country of ours we can’t find better qualified people capable of being a world class leader. I think one reason is the news media. Why would anyone with experience and great ability subject themselves and their families to the redundant abuse of the news media?
All the remaining candidates running are good people but in my judgment none of them are outstanding chief executive officers with proven track records. Perhaps one will evolve but the chances are slim and none at this point in time.
Most people will choose a candidate based on their looks, their color, their gender, what church they belong to, whether they are rich or poor and just about everything else except on the basis of who is capable of doing the best job. Can you imagine choosing a quarterback for the Saints this way?
Who can become a world class leader? Who can protect us against the terrorists that want to destroy America, who will reduce the size of government and not expand it?
Which will reduce waste in spending and reduce taxes? Which can insure victory and oppose defeat in the war? Which can provide a strong economy with job opportunities for all?
Which one will protect the second amendment and the right to keep and bear arms? Which will provide health care to all Americans without the burden of socialized medicine that always results in the decline of quality medical care for all? Which one will resolve the immigration problems on a fair and humane basis but first on what’s best for our country long term?
These are some of the more important issues that affect every American. These are the issues upon which we should make informed decisions and not frivolous, personal likes or dislikes.
Many believe we are at a cross roads in America. The stakes are awfully high. I don’t believe we should let George do it but from the look of things that’s exactly what is likely to happen. We are too busy to be bothered.
We have ample time to study the issues, decide the most important issues for our country and vote for who is the best person to lead us. We have until November, but I suggest you start now!
If the past is any indication, only half of you will vote in what could be the most important election in your lifetime. A scant 26 percent of the people, one out of four, will decide who the next president will be in November and what the future holds for all of us. Sure hope you are one of the 26 percent, but I wouldn’t bet on it!
That’s my story and I am sticking to it.
(Milo A. Nickel is the former President and COO of Louisiana State Newspapers.)