First, I wonder if governing a state or city would truly make one more qualified than one who has management experience and knowledge of national and international issues. It's a lot like running a business and I think there are many people could handle it.
Does anyone know how many Presidents we've had that were actually Governors or Mayors first? I'm not so sure that experience in the city/state has made them better in the White House. In recent years, maybe more have been in higher offices, but I don't think anyone's quite "prepared" to tackle the issues of a nation. Sure, the Pres has the power of veto, but he also has teams of advisors to help him learn the ropes and discuss the potential repercussions of decisions. I'd rather have someone who can intellectualize and has vision, making informed decisions than someone who, in my opinion, has a warped viewpoint and can make decisions that may negatively change the course of the future for my children.
I hear ya, Shani, on her daughter's pregnancy. It's relevant but it's not.
But since you brought it up, you probably know I have three daughters over the age of (almost) 15 and I've always been open about sex with them, allowed them to participate in
sex ed in school and encouraged them to come to me when they're in love and feel ready. My now 25-year old came to me to ask what I thought when she was 18 and in love. I didn't preach at 'em or forbid them; I discussed and taught them to prepare for reality and respect themselves.
Yes, they do make their own decisions. But they're based on being armed to make choices in the
real world, not by sheltering them from it. As far as I'm concerned, it's up to the parent to guide and teach, the schools (govt) should help to reinforce.
As for taxes, check out what yours would be. I think I posted this elsewhere, but it also contains links to plans from both sides.
ObamaTaxCut.com