Interview

What do you think three of the biggest issues in the election are, in order of most importance? Why do you think this?

The most important issue, I think is the economy because it’s so far reaching and affects everyone. Next is the war in Iraq, like most people I would like to see an end, but I don’t know what the markers that will indicate it is time for us to leave. Lastly, we need to stop just talking about alternative energy and to start trying different options.

Why do you think Joe the Plumber is discussed so frequently?

He put a face on the small business owners that are getting taxed and legislated to death. I feel that the health of small business is the canary in the coal mine. They are a good indicator of our overall economy. Joe the Plumber hopefully made politicians realize that the numbers they spout have a human impact.

Which are some of the issues you agree with the candidate you are most likely vote? What are some you disagree with?

Well I’m most likely to vote for McCain. The areas I generally agree with him are on the economy and health care. He wants to give tax incentives to companies that invest in technology and make it more affordable for companies to operate in the US. I believe Fair Trade is good for foreign nations and for us. It helps us to forge positive relationships and may slow immigration. I also like the idea of a portable health plan with a rebate incentive.
I am concerned about his persistence about Iraq and his stance on abortion. I wonder if he will drag his heels on Iraq because of his military background. I mean everyone likes to focus on their area of expertise. While we are in Iraq he can look like a war hero again. I disagree with his stance on abortion, we need to increase family values, encourage families in America and make it easier for a woman to carry to term. To do this services need to be put in place to support mothers and children rather than make decisions for her.

What are some of the topics you would like to be discussed more by the candidates?

I don’t want more discussion of issues, but more in depth discussion, to see if they know how their going to get it done. The candidates always talk about what their going to do but never how their going to do it.

What are some of the changes you would like to see in America after the election?

I would to see campaign reforms before the next election, so it doesn’t come down to who has the most money wins. So I would like to see maximum amounts be placed on how much money a candidate can use, because this has been the most expensive election ever and if there is a cap on the money than maybe they’ll stop running negative ads.
I would like to see stability in the economy, because like I said before because it’s so far reaching and affects every one. Another thing I would like to see is Cooperate America and private entrepreneurs to focus on alternate energy sources, hope fully it would help stabilize our economy.

During the interview I got the feeling her opinions were solidified and informed. I also got the feeling that she wants American self-sufficiency and that this come about through alternate energy sources, small businesses and getting America out of Iraq. Like most people she forms her opinion through information received through TV, the internet, reading and from people. Her stance on the government is that it doesn’t have all the answers. She told me she feels this way because she thinks that America does better if the government doesn’t get too involved in social issues. This idea comes from her experiences with failed government programs.