We all have our own reasons for choosing the way we do, and I can’t remember a time in the past that I have spent so much time contemplating my choice for an election that is still a year away. I mean there was a time when I would listen to the media, watch a few debates, listen to my colleagues and make a choice. Boom, I would pull the lever and cast my vote and not think another thing about it. There were times when I patted myself on the back and times when I kicked myself in the rear for the choice I had made. But since I became a Tea Party member that has all changed. I will no longer regret my choice, no matter what happens. Why? Because from now on I will rely on me, myself and I to determine my candidate and I will use reason, determination and careful consideration before I cast what I now believe to be a most precious privilege, entrusted to me by God, and that is my vote.
There are a lot of good candidates who have thrown their hat in the ring for the 2012 presidential election, many whom I respect as a person and admire as a business person. But, this campaign is very different for me because I now need something more than that. I now have new perspective and insight that I didn’t have before. Two years ago I became involved in the Tea Party movement because for the first time in my life I started to truly realize that government spending was way out of control and the more I learned, the more I became alarmed at how much our country was changing at every level and I didn’t like what I was seeing. My distrust was not about parties at all. I realized I didn’t trust any party, democrats or republicans, and these were the people who were supposed to be governing the affairs of my country and my future. As a Tea Party member I’ve learned that true research pays off and I started to look beyond the sound bytes and forget the media which was full of lies. Doing my own homework enabled me to shine the light of real understanding on every issue and made me a much more informed voter. I soon became the thing politicians fear most, an informed voter.
After careful consideration, a lot of prayer and my faith in God’s guidance, I have made my selection for 2012. I choose Newt Gingrich as my candidate and now I’ll tell you why. I honestly do not feel we can afford to take a chance with inexperience at this crucial time in our nation. I’ve looked at many issues such as the economy, job loss, bailouts, earmarks, healthcare and more. I have taken the time to really listen with a discerning ear to each candidate speak, especially in town halls where I can hear more than a 30 second clip and I have considered the character and ability and experience of each candidate to see which one aligns more closely to what I believe is best for my country. There has been no other time I can think of in the history of our country when wisdom and proven leadership ability has been more needed than it is now. I personally do not believe we can afford another disastrous term in the oval office. Newt’s “21st Century Contract for America” does what I’ve wanted from a candidate for years. It lays down a specific plan in black and white exactly what he will do, when he will do it and how he will do it, and in terms I can understand. It provides accountability and speaks to the true effectiveness and qualification of the man.
My final formula for vetting the candidates, and probably one of the most powerful for me is passion. I seek a candidate who is passionate about his country, passionate about his faith and passionate about his commitment to turn this country around. I found that passion in Newt Gingrich. His love for this country is tangible. You can actually feel his love for this country and for the Lord whenever he speaks. The bottom line is, I believe him. He doesn’t need notes or a teleprompter. He is genuinely concerned about the direction of this country and sincere in his dedication to take her back to her founding principles. That means more to me than anything else since I need that assurance to know the intentions and actions the candidate will take when faced with obstacles and issues I could never be privy too. Mr. Gingrich to me represents proven leadership, vetted ability and sincere devotion to this country, and at this juncture in America I cannot accept anything less.
God bless you all and God bless America!
PS – If you feel like I do, click here and sign up for web updates to STAND WITH NEWT!