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Our greatest leaders always have provided the American people with a clear vision for how to move our country forward. They were chosen because they saw beyond the petty issues of their day to a show us a larger picture of what is possible. They brought us together because of bold words and actions that were more uplifting than divisive. Each was an advocate for the principle of respecting human dignity upon which our nation was founded. Among them, Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and both Roosevelts come to mind.

Being human, every leader also has flaws. Washington had a volatile temper, Jefferson died as a slave holder, Lincoln was prone to depression, Teddy Roosevelt romanticized war, and FDR at times failed to support the rights of minorities. Yet each was able to inspire the majority of Americans to make our country a better place.

When we vote we have a choice: we can choose leaders who serve the interests of all Americans, or who those who primarily serve the agenda of corporations and the privileged few. In 2008 we elected leaders who we hoped would turn around the effects of years of poor decisions that brought us a huge financial downturn and moved us backwards in many areas, including education, the environment, and healthcare. We must choose between those who will take us along a path that benefits our country as a whole, or those who will return us to a downhill spiral.

Our constitution states that the responsibility of our government is to “promote the general welfare.” This principle can guide us in every area where government functions.  When voting, we must consider the ideas presented by candidates – as well their records – about the issues that will shape our future.

A few questions to consider when deciding where to put your vote:

1. Which candidate(s) promote the best interests of all Americans – the common good – over the interests of just a few influential individuals?
   
   
2. Which candidate(s) have an innovative approach to increasing jobs, because as employment rises so do the number of consumers who will stimulate our economy?
   
   
3. Which candidate(s) promote education for every child that will truly prepare them to live in a world that is becoming more complex and technology oriented?
   
   
4. Which candidate(s) have demonstrated an understanding that the destruction of our environment also destroys the resources upon which we depend, as well as many lives?
   
   
5. Which candidate(s) understand that providing healthcare for all is cheaper than our current system that spends one third of costs trying to deny coverage?
   
   
6. Which candidate(s) show respect for others and their viewpoints – even those who are not in the majority?
   
   
7. Which candidate(s) participate in dialogue with others to find solutions to problems?
   
   
8. Which candidate(s) promote full disclosure of sources of campaign funding?
   

Candidates who show us – in principle and by their record – that they will work with others to move us together in a clear and positive direction based on our country’s principles, rather than focusing on the shortcomings of others, deserve our vote.