Why I Created OBAMACAIN

The most disturbing aspect of this election for me has not been a republican issue, or a democratic issue, but a US political culture issue. Along with many of you, I feel deeply saddened that in the process of electing a leader into our nation's highest office, our candidates' representative campaigns stoop to the lowest levels. Yes, we can argue which campaign is worse, but for me, that discussion would only distract us from the fact that at least in some way, both sides are guilty, and that ultimately, this is an American problem. Furthermore, due to what I believe is a failure of our education system to raise voters who have the capacity to think critically at a higher level, these embarrassingly dishonorable methods work on the majority of American voters. Solving this problem is beyond my ability, but I must do what I can to help rectify this situation.

As a result, I have started this blog and have invited Republicans and Democrats to participate in a reasonable discussion about this very important election. This is not a place for smear or misleading soundbites. This is not a place for tabloid-like attacks on either candidate or party. This is a place for reasonable people who exercise their patriotism by listening, learning, presenting their point of view respectfully, and getting closer to the truth behind what informs (or should inform) our votes. We will almost for sure not all agree. That is not the goal. But I believe we make progress if we understand better why we do not agree.

Because we will be discussing politics, perhaps it is unavoidable that active persuasion will be involved, but I ask that users approach this site with an eagerness to learn from each other. Questions are greatly encouraged, especially if they are asked in order to learn about an alternate perspective. If possible, I would like to invite passion, but not anger, into this discussion, as I believe the second causes us to become at least somewhat less rational and less willing to learn and understand each other. I sincerely hope this site will be productive and enlightening for everyone involved.