Why This Election Matters?

I have to confess, this election has been the most intense and exciting in my adult life considering I am only 30 years old. But wait; before you dismiss that, I may be onto something here. Look, nobody is saying that previously held elections lacked excitement and intensity, but we have to acknowledge the insane volume of money and public involvement these elections have drawn. Also the country is in a different state; we are at war, our economy is not looking good, trust in government is at its lowest and our international reputation is in shambles. So, considering all of the above, a lot is at stake this November.

I feel that for the first time, regular Americans are really listening, some may be experiencing primaries exhaustion, but in general, Americans are tuned in more than ever for two important reasons: The candidates’ profiles and the issues at stake. For the first time, a black man and a woman are real candidates for the Presidency, and this, you have to admit, it’s pretty damn exciting for this place we call home.

For many Americans, the real baby in these elections, are the issues, because they don’t generally go away, do they? Liberals hope to capitalize on the public’s anxiety with health care, and the Democratic candidates are pretty consistent and specific about this, in the hopes of finally achieving universal coverage after six decades of trying. What do Republicans have? Well so far the conservative issues are not yet on the agenda, in part because McCain has not have to grease up the conservative machine just yet, that role does not flare up until Democrats have a legitimate candidate. In fact, Republicans will have to face a different electorate this November and the issues they are banking on, like terrorism, security, tax-cuts, are taking a back seat. In effect are other primary issues that have voters anxious and concerned, like the economy, global warming, universal health care, high education costs, trade agreements and the war in Iraq, and these issues are at home with Democrats.

That is why these elections matter, for the first time in many years, they are personal and they are solidifying the American electorate.