Why I voted for McCain

Last month, I mailed in my ballot for John McCain. You may wonder why I, someone who believes in things such as universal health care, stem cell research, gun control, and equal rights for all would vote for a Republican. This election is bigger than all of the issues and political parties combined. This country is facing an economic depression and conflicts abroad. It's about doing what's necessary to save America. It should not be about party affiliation. I've compiled my reasons for supporting the best Republican presidential candidate that we've had in a long, long time below.

Experience
McCain has 22 years of experience in the Senate for Arizona. Experience is of integral importance during these times of crisis (unemployment, foreclosures, stock market instability, 2 wars against terrorism, security). McCain is a tough man who has fought and will fight for America and Americans. If he can resist the Viet Cong in HaNoi for 6 years, he can certainly fight the corruption and mismanagement in corporate America and the government. He will certainly stand up to the special interests groups.
Contrast that with Obama's lack of experience. Obama hasn't even finished a Senate term and he's running for president. He's the least experienced presidential candidate ever. Being able to deliver a speech or raise hundreds of millions of dollars does not qualify Obama to be president. Yes, Sarah Palin may not be so experienced, but I'd rather have an inexperienced vice-president than an inexperienced president. The Oval Office is not the place for on-the-job training.

Bipartisanship
McCain has a history of working with members of Congress from both parties. Obama certainly has not. This isn't about Republican vs. Democrat. It's much bigger than that. We need someone who can work with and stand up to both parties. We need a maverick in the White House. Obama thinks that he can move into the White House with his lack of experience and fix all of America's problems with "hope." We need action and not speeches or promises.

Civil service
McCain is the candidate with a history of serving this country and the American people. McCain has served his country as a naval aviator as well as a member of Congress throughout his adult life. How has Obama served his country? How has Obama served Illinois? We need someone who will put country first rather than himself first. That's the major problem in our political system.

Economy
McCain has the right economic relief plan for working Americans as well as corporations. He will not raise taxes on those who can not afford to pay them. He has the expertise to properly manage our economy and create new jobs for Americans by drilling for oil and finding alternative energy. This will reduce our dependence on foreign oil and create jobs for America. We need oil and nuclear energy rather than pressure guages for our tires. Raising taxes on citizens and corporations at this time will not solve the economic crisis. Increasing capital gains tax doesn't encourage people to invest. A McCain administration will cut down on wasteful spending. We need someone in charge who will ensure that our tax dollars are spent wisely. We need someone with a plan to grow the economy rather than redistribute the wealth.

Leadership
We need a leader who has the strength and expertise to lead us through these rough economic and social times. McCain has been a leader in the U.S. Navy as well as the Senate. He has stood up to members of both parties. What leadership experience does Obama have?

War
Everyone knows that aside from our economic problems, there are two wars that we are involved in. We need a commander-in-chief who has the expertise to make tough decisions. As much as I disagree with Bush's pre-emptive war in Iraq, I know that the troops need to be properly funded and they should return home when the mission is complete. An immediate withdrawal of troops and slashing of funding will only endanger our troops and Iraqi civilians even further and ultimately be more costly. Furthermore, an immediate withdrawal will only require a return to the region in the immediate future.

Character
McCain is an honest and honorable man. During times of crisis, people often forget about the importance of values. Values and strength of character are even more important during tough times. We can count on McCain to do what is right rather than what is popular.
Obama certainly has not been completely truthful about his ties with Ayers and his pastor. How can anyone trust someone who has been friends with a terrorist? How can anyone trust a guy who has delivered racially offensive sermons over the span of 20 years? As Hillary stated, one can not choose his family, but he can certainly choose his friends and religious leaders. Obama disassociated with his pastor and church only after the footage was repeatedly aired on national television. His church ties made him less popular with the American people so he abandoned his church and pastor.

After 8 years of a Bush administration, America deserves a president who is truthful and competent. Aside from all of the issues and problems, ask yourself, "Who do you want representing the U.S.A.?" "Who do you trust to handle foreign policy and diplomatic relations?"