And now, its time for some politics.

I’m totally stealing this idea from The Keyboard Biologist’s latest entry.

I like to think, that despite all appearances, I’m actually a moderate. My boyfriend is a moderate Republican, and I’m a moderate Democrat. We’re very close on most issues – we’re both pro-choice, pro-gay rights, believe in “fiscal responsibility”. I’m actually far more “states rights” than he is. I’m against the dealth penalty, although I think he’s for it, in limited circumstances. He’s probably more of a hawk than I am.

I voted for Gore in 2000, and he voted for Bush. I was against the Iraq war from the beginning, and he was in favor. We both agree now that its been a disaster.

We’re both voting for Kerry.

I find it fascinating how people decide to vote for candidates. When it comes down to it, we don’t weight every single issue the same. I put far more weight on the social issues, which is probably why I identify as a Democrat. Kevin puts far more weight on international issues, and that’s why he identifies as a Republican. Kevin told some folks when we were at a party that any candidate that can get both of our votes are going to win. Heh.

Unlike a fair number of my internet friends, I do believe that most Republicans are good people. However, I do believe that the current administration has hijacked the Republican party. I don’t see how a fiscal conservative could vote for Bush. I don’t see how folks concerned about security and our standing in the world could vote for Bush. I do see how folks who are very concerned with moral issues, such as abortion and gay rights could vote for Bush – not that I honestly believe that Bush actually cares about those issues. Anyone see the video of Bush flipping off an aide?

I think this administration is interested in only one thing – their own enrichment and their own extreme ideology.

Kevin’s reason for voting for Kerry is because he feels like Bush illegally invaded Iraq.

I have many reaons for voting for Kerry, but I’m most concerned about how Bush makes decisions. He doesn’t invite disagreement and open discussion. Things like facts or research are discounted in favor of “instinct”. Here’s a good article that summarizes some of the problems. I found that both and had fascinating, and yet scary, glimpses of how decision making happens in the Bush administration.

I’m also disgusted by all the various dirty tricks that Republicans are using to depress turnout. Go Check out DailyKos if you want more information – they’ve been talking about it there all day.

So, I’m exhausted. I’m terrified of Bush winning, but i’m trying to keep a sense of perspective, and realize that god forbid, if he does win, the nation will survive. It’s been through worse. I just hope a lot of people turn out ot vote, and that a lot of people wake up to what is happening in this country.