Every four years, we here in America, suffer the onslaught of information that accompanies the impending fall election. Now it seems, we are getting the same major onslaught of political ads and partisan rhetoric for this mid-term election. Now realize that this is an election for Representatives and Senators at the national level as well as local and state races. No presidential or vice-presidential candidates. That said, the commentary and commercials have been flying not only at the state and local level, but at the national level.
I will borrow a phrase from Dickens here: Bah HUMBUG!!!
I have come to realize that what we see on TV, hear on the Radio and read in our papers (the few of us that still subscribe) regarding politics is ALL so laden with slant and spin, that you just have to turn it all off. Turn it off NOW!!!
Enter Tivo. This is the coolest thing since sliced bread (whatever that means) or at least since Color TV. Here is what I suggest. Fast forward every political commercial, and use that downtime during your favorite show to do a little research on the folks who would have us hire them to run our country. Don't forget that not-so-small fact. These would be "leaders" of the free world, work for us. So let's act like bosses. Would you hire someone to babysit your kids without checking them out thoroughly, or at least getting awesome references form a trusted friend? Of course not. You and I exercise due diligence in our private and business lives, but when faced with the most important duty of any citizen of this great nation, we defer to Madison Avenue blather.
So, if you don't have Tivo, get it. Then you have no excuse for voting without good information. We are so quick to say "I just don't have time for that." "I trust so-and-so the news anchor..."" REALLY?
Would you trust them to pick your babysitter? I thought not. Lots is at stake in any election. Don't just show up and vote based on the mutual mud slinging and misdirection, rather, inform yourself. Find out how these people vote on issues important to you. This info is available on all sorts of site, like the congressional record.
A side benefit to Tivo... NO MORE GEICO COMMERICALS!!!