Letter to the editor: Before voting, think about what you stand for

Apparently, some folks are having a tough time deciding who to vote for in the upcoming election. Allow me to suggest some thoughts that might make it easier.

If you haven’t noticed, crucial votes taken in Washington (gun control, abortion, climate change) usually end up decided along party lines. So, if you remind yourself that you are voting for the ideology of the party, not just the individual candidate, you’ve taken a big step in making a decision.

You can feel confident that if you vote for Democrats like Sen. Bob Casey (the every-six-years version of Punxsutawney Phil), you’re going to get the unsecure orders, liberal abortion policies, climate change regulations, opposition to school choice and attempts to disarm the citizenry that you favor.

If you’re still wavering, ask yourself, “Can I name two major pieces of legislation Casey has introduced in 17 years?” If so, he’s your man.

If you’re leaning toward someone like Dave McCormick, (an accused carpetbagger), you probably support less restrictive gun laws, school choice, legal immigration, leaving abortion decisions to the states and using American gas and oil. Ask yourself, do you really know his background or where he lives? If you’re still satisfied, most likely, he’s your guy.

Now, apply this same thinking to the presidential election. Ask yourself, “What do I stand for (not who)?” Look at the party’s platform, then expect to be dragged (happily, I assume), in that direction.

Tim Kaczmarek

Natrona Heights