Demand more from our leaders

Every few years, almost on cue, religion seems to enthusiastically enter politics as though this country should somehow become a theocracy with democratic overtones instead of a democracy separated from religion by its Constitution.

As a Christian, I gladly accept and proclaim Jesus’ role in my life and salvation, and wish for others the fulfilling life possible when filled with His Spirit.

As a citizen of the United States of America, I declare and defend my right to form my own political philosophy, and make my own political decisions. Moral choices, when they arise, are made prayerfully and seriously in accordance with the written testament, my conscience, and my intellect (such as it is.)

Thus it is appalling that religious faith is used as a basis for supporting this or that candidate in this or that race.

How to determine where one’s vote should go is a challenge for voters vitally concerned with the future of the country, not only at the highest national levels, but at all levels. If honesty is to be the only criteria, then we’re indeed lost. Though it is necessary to bite ones lip and cast the vote for the least objectionable candidate, then we should stop the nonsense of allowing our representatives to say and do outrageous things because they are of the same party. When we demand more of our leaders, more integrity, more diligence in understanding our needs, more empathy for the powerless and needy, then and only then will we see those qualities we revere in the leaders we select.