It makes sense. Why turn away potential voters and supporters over something that doesn't matter?

On the other hand, do we only want candidates who have the insect-like ability to specialize strictly to three talking points? Do we want empty suits who are devoid of depth, capable only of the grip-and-grin with farmers, auto workers, and retirees?

For my part, I have decided that I will not shut the blog down. In fact, I will not downgrade it to become a mere campaign trail diary with pics representing important demographic groups and bland musings on the beauty of the local landscape. I believe there is a desire for well-rounded, human candidates.

For your part, I will ask you to consider the grounds by which you will dismiss any candidate out of hand, or worse, publish negative commentary about their candidacies.

Sure, if it turns out that the candidate is a child molester or some other monster, have at 'em. If you have a genuine policy difference, have at it by all means. No decent candidate should ever have a problem with people of good will who take an opposing side. I know I appreciate it in a good dialogue. It makes me sharper for having to consider the opposing view more carefully.

We've so narrowly defined our tolerance parameters that we tend to drive away good people who might otherwise take part in the process, leaving us only with candidates capable of ignoring the public. Not exactly a recipe for future responsiveness or representative government.

When we are left only with candidates who really don't mind being described as 'evil' or 'stupid', what is that you think you have before you?

If you find yourself underwhelmed with the choices before you, consider the way candidates are treated, and how tolerant you are of innocuous things as relates to them. How the public reacts to candidates has everything in the world to do with who they are and how they present themselves.

This original entry is distilled from several items at my blog, Kole Hard Facts. I will not use this forum to direct you to my campaign website.

Ed:LisaM