Pre-boomers hold the key to the political future

Posted on August 3rd, 2010 by admin

Too often people complain about the state of government and how it does not represent their views and provide for their needs. This kind of statement is usually followed by the individual throwing up their hands and sealing their fate by saying something like, “But I’m only one person, so there’s nothing I can do about it?” The answer is, only you have the power to affect change.

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As you know, every member of the United States House of Representatives, all 435 of them, is up for election in November. A third of the 100 Senators will also be on the ballots. And, many state and local candidates will be fighting for your vote this fall as well. With the economy in trouble at all levels, along with a host of other concerns, this election gives every citizen the right to choose who they want to represent them. So, there really is something each of us can do.

If you ever thought term limits was a sound idea, this is the year to put that concept to work. In political parlance, this is known as a mid-term or off-year election. This means there is no national activity such as we have during presidential campaigns. Of course, lots of national money will be thrown at various races so that the party in power remains in office. At the same time the party on the outs will pour national dollars against candidates they believe can be defeated. Since there’s so much at stake, like it or not, money will play a big role in every key election.

But this is not the year to allow past party loyalties, clever ads or slick orators to influence your decision. Rather it is the responsibility of each of us to learn about the issues and the people who are running, both the incumbent and the challenger. Then decide who is best qualified to serve you.

Once you have come to a conclusion as to who you want to support, volunteer to help them win; because if they win you win. They need both money and people power. Even if you can’t afford to contribute, the excuse of not having time or not being a political animal does little to help your choice become the choice of others. There are lots of things you can do that don’t take much time; many tasks can be done at home in your spare time, just ask the people at campaign headquarters about them. It’s not necessary to put signs on your lawn or car; you can help while remaining anonymous.

New Seniors are going to account for nearly a third of the votes that will be cast in November. This means those born between 1930 and 1945 have the ability to change the outcome of virtually every race for every seat in the US House of Representatives as well as affect the results of many other campaigns. If the boomers turning 65 in the next few years join in, you can expect to see a new political landscape.

Positive change begins with you. So, if you are tired with politics as usual, getting involved is a small price to pay. Besides, many who have been reluctant to volunteer have learned to like it. The important thing to remember is that you hold the key.