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Today, I attended an organizing event associated with the Obama 2012 campaign and other fellow democrats. Yes that is correct I am a very proud member of the Democratic Party. I am African American, however, that doesn’t automatically make me a card caring democrat. What makes me a democrat is my belief system, which is the reality that there is a need for government in our lives and that programs like Social Security and legislation for affordable health care are needed in this country.
Over time it seems that a great divide has formed between the two main political parties in this country. Republicans are deemed as far right and excessively conservative and Democrats are far left and excessively liberal. There is no middle ground where we can come together as citizens of the same country to ensure a better nation. Constant bickering in Congress slows down and sometimes stops any legislative progress from occurring. Then there is the strong-minded belief of individuals who are against any agenda that President Obama puts in motion.
I personally do not understand the intolerance against one of the most intelligent and forward thinking President’s that we have had in some time. It makes me angry when I see the disrespect that is given to President Obama by members of the Republican party including current Presidential candidates, it is really so hard to show him respect. Other nations are watching what we do and I am shamed for what they are seeing. Ironically the citizens of this country think that because President Obama seemed to do the impossible when elected that he has a magician’s wand and could wave away 8 years of the Bush Administration’s negative impact on this nation.
For those who may have your doubts let me list out just a few of the accomplishments that have been made by President Obama, who has been in office for 3 years and 1 day as of the writing of this blog.
- Signed into law an economic plan that saved America from a depression, restored growth, and created or saved as many as 3.6 million jobs.
- Signed into law landmark health insurance reform that holds insurance companies accountable, gives people and small businesses greater control of health care, and improves the quality of health care for all Americans.
- Fought against Wall Street lobbyists to sign into law historic consumer protections and financial reforms that shield American families from unfair lending practices from credit card and mortgage companies, rein in the excesses of Wall Street, and work to prevent future financial crises.
- Reformed the college loan system by ending subsidies to banks and using the money to make college more affordable. He also invested in community colleges that are providing Americans with the skills they need to succeed in today’s economy.
- Rescued the American auto industry, which saved millions of American jobs and helped GM and Chrysler become profitable again while repaying taxpayers.
- Repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which makes it possible for individuals to serve in the military regardless of their sexual orientation.
- Helped women get the equal pay they deserve by signing into law the Lilly Ledbetter Act.
- Ended the war in Iraq, initiated a responsible drawdown of forces in Afghanistan, and ordered the operation that killed Osama bin Laden.
In conclusion, I would like to say that no matter your political party affiliation, it is important to stay informed and engaged in the process. From the recent Iowa Caucuses it was shown that every vote can and does make a difference. In addition, unless you have been living under a rock you know that from both the 2000 and 2004 Presidential elections victory can change based on a legal decision. It is up to all citizens of this here United States of America to take ownership in their future, so again I end with be informed and be engaged in the political process.
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PaisleyPerspective 