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Originally Posted by irateplatypus
the silver lining of the issue is that perhaps for once we can have some empirical evidence as to the veracity of these political charges. hopefully the truth of the matter will be decided by research and forensics and not decided along party affiliation. i think that would be a breath of fresh air to us all.
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I share the hope, but doubt that it will be the reality. Every day I have people tell me that they wish that Kerry/Bush would talk more about their plans for office, but every day I see Kerry/Bush talk about just that. The media doesn't want to waste valuable space with an old man droning on about the details of a Medicare plan or the intricacies of foreign relations. It is much more scintillating to put up Swift Boat Vets and Fired Administration Officials smearing all kinds of allegations across the airwaves, and talking heads to play badminton with the hot potato of the moment.
The people of this nation have to take responsibility for their government. The mainstream media has invalidated itself as a worthy source of objective analysis. This isn't some tin-hat thing, and I don't believe the media is in some pocket and being used for some big conspiracy. Certain outlets certainly are, but that is to be expected. No, it is merely the reality of corporate media.
Personally, I make my decision almost entirely on the basis of what I personally hear the candidates say, what I feel they are likely to achieve if elected, and how well those are aligned with my personal views. If a candidate shares my positions and is likely to achieve what I consider to be positive actions in office, I support them.
Do candidates lie? Sure, but at least it is direct from their mouth, not a lie turned over, disected, spun, and painted before delivery. It is up to me as a voter to analyze the statements of the candidates and determine their accuracy and how they affect my vote.