How to Decide on a Political Candidate

The two major political parties in the United States--the Democratic Party and the Republican Party--have been in power for a very long time. It often comes down to the candidates from these two parties that make the final cut when it comes to the popular vote. Keep an open mind from the start, however. Don't assume that you have only as many choices as the mainstream media says. The power to vote and change the entire country rests in your hands. Stand up and be informed as a gift to yourself and the world around you. Deciding on a political candidate can be done wisely and effectively with a bit of forward thinking and research.

Instructions

1. Learn about the experience, work history and biography of each candidate. While what each candidate stands for politically and has accomplished professionally should ultimately be your deciding factors, it's natural to want to know the man or woman behind the politician. Time spent on looking into his past will be a great investment. Study each candidate equally so that you are able to weight the scales on perspective on each candidate.

2. Listen to the debates. Most candidates debate one another before an election. Listening to what they believe, how they express themselves and how they react to opposition will tell you a lot.

3. Consider the candidates take on key issues that are important to you as an individual. Some are only concerned with the economy. Others are worried about times of war and peace. It all depends on what matters to you. Whatever that is, make sure that you are able to find each candidates opinion and track record with the topic. Write and ask (or call) each candidate's office if the information available is not sufficient for your interests and needs. Most campaigning politicians will have a staff that will get back to you on most concerns.

4. Read about what each candidate plans to do to help, save or improve the economy. This will ultimately affect everybody.

5. Cross check each candidate's statements. You will know she is a liar if she states different beliefs to different audiences. See if she has been proven honest. Independent research will show that liars are sometimes protected in search of an even bigger story. See if your candidate is honest. If she is lying before election, chances are the downward spiral will continue.

6. Keep track of all debates. Follow agendas. Watch how each candidate campaigns. Some candidates reveal tricky and dishonest parts of themselves by using vicious attacks on opponents. This may influence how you feel. It may not. Simply being in the know will help you make an informed decision at the polls.

Tips & Warnings

• Reserve judgment on each candidate until you've learned what he truly stands for and what he has accomplished so far towards his goals and beliefs.

• Don't bring up your choice of candidate into casual conversation at the workplace. Politics and religion are often the two taboos when it comes to the working environment. Keep your politics to your personal time.