Today is a big election day in our country, so the EHD team is out voting this morning (or maybe they voted by mail and they are eating bagels by a pool on a rooftop in WEHO and taking advantage of getting the morning off). So stop reading and go VOTE VOTE VOTE. Regardless of the results, it is projected that more people are voting this year than two years ago, which is encouraging. Participating in politics can be daunting, but not voting is not participating in our own future and that doesn’t feel good.
Who has voted and how are you all feeling? I’m excited. I’m nervous, but I’m excited.
I’d LOVE to hear of any Republicans who swung toward the left this time and why. I just listened to a podcast about it and it was very interesting…
BUT FIRST GO VOTE!! Then come back and tell us you did.
*If you already voted or are international and want some design content, head to the ROOMS section on the top of the blog and peruse all our content by room.
Best post ever! I voted.
Voted in NYC this morning. The lines were just as long as the 2016 election. There were a bunch of 18 year olds voting for the first time and they were so excited. It made me a little excited too. But also anxious
I’ve always been left of center, but my dad has always been fiercely independent.
This year, he started canvassing for the democratic party in his little Wisconsin town of 3,000. He did more canvassing than anyone else in town, so they deployed him to a bigger city nearby. I’m SO proud of him!
This is so awesome! Thank you to your dad for working so hard.
That is so wonderful to hear! You should be so proud of him – what a great guy.
Love to hear this!! I grew up in Wisconsin and I know there are smart progressive people all over that state! Yay for your Dad!!
Wow! I’m from Wisconsin (though in a city) and this is SO heartening. Good for your dad!
From small-town Wisconsin, now living in the city. YAY for your dad!!!
I grew up in WI and this makes my heart so happy. Your dad is the best!
My son is a freshman at the U of Wisconsin and voted for the first time. With the election SO close (Gov. Walker still has not conceded), I’m glad that he can see how every vote counts. Thanks to your dad for all his hard work! I voted too, in Illinois.
I have been vote by mail for years now. I went to a high school this year and helped to register and pre-register young voters. Mark your calendar Emily, your kiddos can pre-register when they turn 16!
Is anyone else a Christian who cares about people (even if we don’t agree with their lifestyle) and wants everyone to be treated equal but also values their paycheck not being depleted by taxes?? I struggle so hard with elections because I strongly believe in less government, less taxes, more state government but also HATE that that associates me with corrupt racist idiots. I live in GA which has been all over the news because of the governor race between Stacey Abrams and Kemp. Abrams is WAY too must of a Socialist for me and Kemp is one of those corrupt idiots. I wish someone else had one the Republican spot. As a state with state taxes I couldn’t trust Abrams to not deplete my paycheck even more and I ended up voting for Kemp. Now I am questioning my decision because of this whole tampering with minority votes. I know people will hate my response but this is a struggle every time I vote.
Living in the midwest, I see it as there’s always the state houses to keep a “too socialist” governor in check, but they never seem to be able to keep the corrupt idiots in check, in fact those ones seem to run rampant and ruin the state. So my vote would definitely have gone towards Abrams over Kemp (though in all honesty, it would have anyways) (and that’s even putting aside the added racists).
I think you have to consider what means the most to you and what will benefit your community the most, and vote for the candidate that best meets those requirements. Sometimes, however, people get so caught up on how one thing will affect ONLY themselves that they fail to see how the thing affects others. For example, paying higher taxes may be a bummer for you (“you” in the general sense), it can be a literal lifesaver for a huge group of people.
I will say, a politician who has already proven him or herself corrupt is not anyone you can trust. Someone who will abuse his position to disenfranchise entire sects of voters in order to win an election is not someone who gives a crap about using your money wisely or treating people equally.
I’m a Christian and this was an encouraging read for me this morning: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/29/opinion/sunday/christians-politics-belief.html
At this point I think fiscally conservative people that value small government and responsible spending have to honestly take a look at the Republicans’ record. If that’s why you vote for them I don’t think they have earned your vote.
I am a confirmed atheist and a left-of-the-left democrat, but I have nothing but respect for your views and your decision. This is what democracy looks like. Not that buffoon and his racist idiots spewing venom.
I appreciate your comment! Too many times people can only see their own sides and hate someone who disagrees with them even though you both may have the best intentions. And I agree, he is a buffoon and I did not vote for him. But also Hillary is a liar who only loves Hillary. I didn’t believe she cared about the people she was campaigning for, I think she just wants power. I completely disagreed with Bernie on almost everything but I totally believe he CARES about the people he is fighting for.
Thank you for your comment Rupali! There are wonderful, intelligent people on both sides of the fence here and I think the real battle is about bringing us together, not continuing the divide.
I’m assuming you mean President Trump. What exactly makes him a racist, in your opinion? And why is it ok to label this administration with derogatory labels, but not the previous one? Look closely at who is the racist.
This comment is intended respectfully Laura, and not meant to start an argument, but just to state some facts. I think there have been many incidences when Trump has been racist – asking for Obamas birth certificate, when Obama is clearly an American citizen, was a racist dog whistle. His insistence that the Central Park 5 are still guilty and should be executed, when DNA evidence has proven otherwise (he still refuses to back down on this). He was sued by the DOJ for refusing to rent to black tenants. He called African countries “shitholes” He refused to denounce White Supremecists after Charlottesville. He does not just get a pass for these things, all of these things happened, we all saw them happen, and they are all racist incidents. Donald Trump is racist. Secondly though – I don’t think calling someone a racist (when they are) is a “derogatory label” – it’s simply calling them out on something. To suggest you’re not allowed to, is like saying you can’t call a murderer a murderer – if they ARE a murderer, then of course you can. Calling him a Cheeto is a derogatory label. But calling him a racist is the… Read more »
You care more about your paycheck than people. Clearly a lot of Americans do.
Hi Jessica,
I do a lot for my community and fellow mankind so no I don’t care about it MORE than people. But yes, I work hard for my money (which isn’t even that much) and like to decide where it goes- i.e. supporting a child in Tanzania, supporting missionaries, my local community center etc. I don’t want the government deciding what to do with it for me.
And, dear Emily, there are lots of us who’d like to hear of any Democrats who swung to the Right. That is indeed a beautiful thing! Consider the brilliant Candace Owens and the entire WalkAway movement….. Also, a huge rebuke to those commenting here in a knee -jerk fashion about so-called “racist idiots” on the Right. Try to get a few fresh talking points, guys. The Leftist media beats the racist drumbeat 24-7, and that is just a cheap substitute for admitting “Our party has no ideas, no common-sense policies that are actually improving communities, the economy, and citizens’ lives!”
Amen.
Amen.
Truth
Bella!! I 1000% agree with your response to Jessica!
What is so sad is that I think we all care about a lot of the same issues on each side of the fence!! For me, I want my money to be spent helping others in a way that I know they will actually benefit.
Most of us would agree that the government is incredible inefficient and a lot of their individuals (on both sides) are untrustworthy… so why would we vote to give our government more power and more money? Unfortunately that just isn’t logical or realistic.
Listen, Bella. I wasn’t saying that you don’t care about people at all, but facts are facts. You voted for a candidate who engineered racist voter suppression. You voted for the party that supports the President while there are children in cages. So forgive me if I’ve offended you but your priorities are clear. If it makes you feel any better, you’re in the majority of Georgia voters-and by that I mean people in Georgia who got to cast their ballots because their votes weren’t suppressed.
You should also do more research about supporting missionaries. Are there better ways to help that don’t force certain ways of living, questionable rules and morals, or a specific way of life? What about preserving the culture and values of people different than you, while still making sure they have access to basic needs?
Or how are you supporting the child in Tanzania? Is this a short-term fix, or can you vote in political figures that will change their international policies to help build infrastructure in other places?
Temporary help with strings often does more harm than good in the long-run, ensuring that developing countries continue to stay that way. Ensuring the status quo is protected for the countries in power, just as the Republican party ensures that for the (generally) white, wealthy men in power in their own country.
I will never question my support of missionaries who are doing things I believe in. And committing to support a child in Africa so them and their families can eat and thrive and get a good education isn’t not a temporary bandaid. That is supporting this child’s future and who knows what impact they can make because of it.
Oy, I just want to point out that while it’s great to keep more of your money to decide to help people/communities in ways that aligned with your belief and passion, individuals’ finance cannot adequately fund infrastructure building, education, social services. Looking at countries with smaller or no government with no mean to build and maintain infrastructures (physical and human ones), well it doesn’t look too good over in those places.
Yes, she is a typical Republican. Me, me, me, me.
Hi Vicky, I actually spend a lot of time thinking and doing for other people. But when it comes to my hard earned money, I do care. 🙂
^^^This comment is why I have a hard time being left of center. Democrats can be so hard hearted, unkind & unhelpful.
Being a jerk doesn’t change anyone’s essential opinion.
I totally agree Paris, honestly the divide in our country is heartbreaking and I totally agree with what you said about @Vicky.
Hey, labeling is wrong. All Democrats are not mean. All Republicans are not mean. I will say, however, since this President was elected, I have been brought to tears and bullied for respectfully stating my opinion. I am a registered Republican but consider myself independent. Because of the treatment I have received from Republicans, it is quite likely that I will change my party. That is only my experience.
Paris, i think both sides of the aisle can be so disparaging and downright mean to each other. I mean you only have to turn on Fox News or listen to our president ripping democrats to shreds. I actually think leftists are nicer! But we all need to learn to accept that people will have different views from us that we don’t understand. I get not liking higher taxes when you have no control about where your money is going. If we don’t start listening to each other and compromising we will continue destroying our democracy.
I don’t think being left or right makes you kind. Being kind makes you kind. From a Canadian somewhere in the middle. ?
So what you’re saying is that ultimately you’d rather “associate … with corrupt racist idiots” than take the chance of paying higher state taxes? Sounds legit.
I don’t think its really honest or intelligent to assume that individuals who value small government, freedom, and a just taxation (which was one of the main reasons America broke off from England and became the country it is today – refer back to your high school textbooks if you need to for this one :)) are “corrupt racist idiots”. That the exact opposite of most Republican’s that I know. Majority of the Republicans I know serve in their local communities, give 10-25%+ of their income away to help those who are hurting and suffering and care very deeply for others. Most often I would say they don’t think that we should give more money to a government that is incredibly inefficient and often untrustworthy (on both sides – as you are clearly stating yourself). It is actually very simple… why give more money, power, and control to an inefficient government when you could more effectively use your money to help those around you? It just doesn’t make sense. Be passionate about those you say you care about… but don’t confuse passionately “helping others” with calling others who have different ideas of helping the hurting – racist, idiots or whatever… Read more »
Thank you for your honesty, Bella. Maybe you can volunteer some time to help ensure that people of color in your state are not deprived of their right to vote. That would be a nice gesture and help keep Kemp in check/honest.
Hi Kate, thanks for your comment! That is a wonderful idea. Atlanta is a beautifully diverse city and there are many opportunities for that! My favorite place to volunteer is the Atlanta mission with the moms and their kids.
Bella – I’m sure Jesus would also be way more concerned about take home pay than human rights as well. How very Christian of you.
Honestly, I don’t think Jesus is thrilled with either party because, hi we are humans and we suck. I also think he hates abortion so…
Bella,
I thought your initial comment was brave, but now you seem to be trolling all of us who are here for Emily’s posts on design, food, family, entertaining, etc.
Maybe we could get back to Emily’s post, which was “VOTE!” Emily didn’t specify a party or a candidate, nor did she throw the abortion wild card into her post.
Kel — united we stand, divided we fall. We have to find a way to collaborate with one another and find common ground, otherwise the country we live in will only become more polarized. Even though I disagree with Bella’s choice, I don’t think making snarky comments is doing anyone any bit of good.
SB- while I appreciate your level-headed comment, I couldn’t help but point out the hypocrisy in her comment. I smell a Fox News watcher.
Hi Kel, actually no, I’m more of a CNN girl 🙂 thanks for another snarky comment though.
Kel, Jesus would never advocate making people pay “at the tip of a sword”. His word and teachings were all about being charitable and helping others as a way of life in ways OF THEIR OWN CHOOSING, which is what Bella and others have been saying. Having the government literally confiscate money from those who have earned it and then calling those people SELFISH if they object is really the height of hypocrisy.
This makes total sense to me. I’m a Democrat who believes in smart government, smart taxes, and treating all people equally. I also dislike corrupt racist idiots. We all have to stay in dialogue and work together to create a better, more representative system where none of us have to regret our choices. Happy Election Day!
Thanks Erin! The older I get the more centrist I become. As I said, I struggle every time and just have to ultimately do what I think is best. That doesn’t always mean I make the right decision. If only their were a LEGITIMATE third party we could cast our votes to.
Third party. yes!
I, too, am a Georgia resident and voted for Stacey Abrams, but I will admit that I am a little worried about what might happen with taxes if she gets into office. I’m a registered Democrat who has sometimes voted for moderate Republicans, but I just can’t vote Republican right now, for Kemp or anyone else. That being said, I understand your struggle. As Erin says below, we need to stay in dialogue, and honesty about difficult issues helps. So thanks, Bella, for being honest.
“Fiscally conservative; socially unrepresented.” Hear that all the time from people I consider intelligent, thoughtful citizens here in Houston, so you are definitely not alone in the struggle.
I’m legitimately asking (not criticizing)…how much do you expect policies from different parties to affect your paycheck? I (maybe naively) assume that I am so squarely middle class that I won’t be effected and therefore vote more along the lines of social issues. I figure the very wealthy and very poor are the ones that would see a direct change.
Lindsay- the problem is that candidates don’t say how much things cost because they don’t want you to know how much taxes are raised. My issue with the state of Georgia (and city of Atlanta) is that my state income tax is already 8.9% and yet, where is this money going to? Our schools suck, our roads and infrastructure systems suck. City of Atlanta home taxes DOUBLED this year for many people (which sent everyone into a tizzy) because the government had failed to raise them for YEARS and we got hit in one big swoop/ What are they doing with what they are already getting from me? I don’t trust the GA government to use my money correctly as is it right now so I certainly don’t believe they’re going to use it for these wonderful sounding platforms Abrams or other Dems have.
Hey Bella! I just wanted to say thanks for letting us in on your thought process. I can see how you feel like you didn’t really have a good option in a race of extremes, and that’s a bummer that you couldn’t place a vote that you felt excited about today. :/
I have a difficult time when anyone mentions their religion when discussing their politics. Someone doesn’t need to be a Christian in order to care about people or want everyone to be treated equally. I think we can all agree that just being a Christian doesn’t ensure those qualities in a person (or belonging to any other religion for that matter). I understand that for many people their religion lays the framework for their actions, so it becomes difficult to differentiate between religion and their politics when voting. However, the separation of church and state is vital to making America a safe place for all people, no matter their race, age, sexuality, OR religion.
Right on !
Bella – i think many intelligent people struggle to not become ‘single issue’ voters, but often end up swallowing our distaste on some aspect of a candidate in order to vote for the issue that rises to the top for us.
I feel your pain on taxes. I’m independent and try to assess candidates on their merits. I’m leaning left this year bc everything coming out of the Trump world for me is horrendous as a human being. But in Illinois, the democratic candidates for various offices are proposing tax policies that literally will drive me to reconsider whether i can afford to continue to live in my home. Tax policy has immediate consequences for our day to day lives. Hard to step outside of that.
Bella, thank you for your comment. It has sparked a great discussion, and I am so thrilled to see most people engaged in a respective, supportive dialogue. In that vein, can I ask you a question that I often wonder but don’t know anyone to ask? (Sorry in advance that it’s on the super-controversial topic of abortion. I don’t mean to offend anyone – but the issue was raised, and I am legitimately curious.) I 100% understand having a personal view that abortion is wrong. It’s not my personal view, but I understand it and agree each individual is entitled to her own opinion. However, I cannot connect the dots between having this personal opinion and voting for a candidate on that basis, when it seems highly likely that said candidate has engaged in that act (or paid for it), and/or has expressly engaged in a number of other “moral sins” in the public sector? Regardless of what rhetoric the candidate might speak on the topic of abortion, why is it worth voting for the candidate on that particular issue when this or other traits of the candidate are totally out of line with conservative Christian values? Thank you in… Read more »
Amanda, thank you so much for this question. I have long wondered the same thing and would love to better understand people’s thoughts on the matter.
And cheers to Emily for this post and letting us all talk in the comments—I live in a very liberal city (/bubble), and while I’m staunchly Democratic, I really value the opportunity to learn how other women from around the country make decisions about politics. Especially when most are contributing such thoughtful and respectful comments.
Happy voting day everyone!
Hi Amanda! Interesting question! I wonder why you say most of these candidates have had or paid for an abortion procedure? Currently 1/4 of women have had an abortion in their life (sorry if this statistic is slightly off) so that leaves 3/4 of women who have not. So I don’t think it’s necessarily fair to say that candidates whose platform is against abortion are hypocritical in general. I’m sure many of them have been through that situation but I don’t think the majority have. For those who have had an experience with abortion and still choose to run against it, I have a few thoughts. 1- perhaps they regret the decision after going through it and feel strongly against it now. 2- from an evangelical standpoint maybe they were for it before and then became a Christian (or other religion) and found they could no longer align their beliefs with abortion 3- they are actual hypocrites and politiatians who only care about themselves. I think we can all agree that BOTH sides are full of straight up politicians who care about #1. For me, I am morally again abortion. If there’s a heartbeat, you are a human and your… Read more »
Thank you Stu! THIS
I would also like to point out that people who are real life Jesus loving people are NOT the same as Christian Conservatives who have been caught in lies and deceit one too many times. It all just points to a broken world and broken people and what I believe is our need for Jesus.
Can I add one thing? It’s really disheartening to see so many of you talk down about government employees- many folks in my family (including my husband and parents) work hard, for much less than they would in private companies, because they feel a calling to help the people of this nation. I urge some of you to get to know government employees and not just read the headlines on the few idiots who make the news. It takes a village to make sure the lights turn on, the water works, people are safe in emergencies, and so many more things we take for granted.
YES. I’m also a fiscal conservative, but very socially liberal. My beliefs in fiscal conservativism come from my background – I’m a CPA who minored in economics in college, and believe wholeheartedly in private industry and private charities because I can vote for or against them every day with my dollars. I try to research candidates and honestly would love to vote for many of the independent candidates if it didn’t feel so much like throwing my vote away. One thought I’ve had is that fiscal issues are 100% impacted by politicians, but social issues are really driven by how the population feels – Obama changed his views on some social issues between his first term election and his second, mostly because that’s how trends in society went. I honestly think most politicians, especially seasoned ones, will say whatever they have to on social issues to get elected. I believe the really important thing for social change is for people who have a platform to SAY what they believe in, because we will naturally become more liberal in our societal beliefs over time if that happens. Maybe that’s just an excuse for me to vote on the issues I understand… Read more »
Jessie and Bella,
When it comes to giving the money you believe you have earned, why do you believe you are the best people to decide who deserves the money? Why do you believe that the people who specialize in social and civil services are defrauding you of your tax money? Do you believe that you are the neediest in your community- and deserve to see a 100% ROI on your tax dollars back to yourselves? If not, why are you upset that you don’t see where the tax money goes?
I know I’m a little late but wanted to respond to this with a few points in case you hadn’t thought of them Bella. 1. You live in a red state that I presume (too lazy to check) has a red house and red senate. This is our checks and balances and having a blue governor wouldn’t mean anything would happen to your taxes unless all three agree. Unlikely! 2. Assuming your Christian statement is a point about abortion. The best way to reduce abortion is actually not to outlaw it. It is to increase sex education (not abstinence only education) and to increase access to health services. You can guess which party supports which. Outlawing abortion just means desperate people have them illegally. Colorado is an interesting case study on access to birth control and abortion rate if you’re googling. 3. Voter suppression feels inherently un-Christian to me. What is one party so afraid will happen if poor black people vote? We should want everyone to vote so we have a representative government. 4. Back to taxes. The way you’re talking about your income indicates to me that you don’t have a very high income. Therefore nobody is coming… Read more »
Hi Jem! I think many of your points are very well thought out and logical, and I appreciate you making them in such a manner – it’s helpful rather than attacking. I’m a CPA who lives in Kansas, and just wanted to throw a clarification out there about the Kansas tax policy so that you have all the facts. Kansas did not reduce/eliminate corporate taxes – it eliminated “pass-through entity taxes,” which refers to the taxation of a legal structure that is most typical of small businesses owned by individuals (this legally CANNOT be a publicly traded company, with a few very limited exceptions). On the surface, this seemed like an appropriate way to help small businesses without giving a tax cut to large corporations, but many people, including lifelong Kansans, were unaware that the largest company in Kansas, Koch Industries, is a “pass-through entity.” Yes, that Koch – as in the infamous Koch brothers, who are staunch supporters of right-wing extremism. This was basically the “Koch brothers’ tax cut act”, and while it helped many other small business owners, it left Kansas with a huge budget deficit and didn’t spur the economic growth that was promised in return. I… Read more »
I usually vote with the economy because if it is not humming then jobs follows. Love the current economy and the policies which have really boosted it along.
Also the preciousness of life of a baby is another issue very near to my heart. I am glad the Senate was not lost by the Republicans.
The Kanaugh hearing was huge as well. As a mother of three boys- I found it disgusting how Dianne Feinstein treating Kavanaugh. The Democrats and the Democratic activist embarrassed themselves.
Still like following your designs:)
Voted by mail! I voted like my body, voice, child, friends, safety, wages are at stake.
I’ve always leaned moderately right but voted for Beto. And since I didn’t know most of the other candidates prioritized by: all women, then third party candidates, then alternated between Reps and Dems…I’m skeptical and figure most people in politics are self-serving, so we might as well have diversity! The Daily podcast interviewed white Evangelical women yesterday, and I could relate to everything they said. It’s a great listen because I think it better represents how a lot of conservatives feel rather than the craziness you see in the media. It joked that many conservative evangelical women are voting for Democrats and not telling their husbands…which is exactly what my mom did! I don’t understand how any Christian can stand by and justify most Republican stances. For many conservative Christians I know, abortion is a non-negotiable. But as the interviewee on The Daily said yesterday, I value ALL lives (immigrants, minorities, etc), not just unborn babies. No candidate or party is going to align with your views 100%, so there will always be compromises. What motivated me was largely the Kavanaugh debacle and the Republican response to it (Lindsey Graham particularly just makes me want to throw-up). When Trump mocked… Read more »
Amen.
Your last sentence says it all. Why can’t we just have good, kind people in office?
YAY Beto!
Thank you for everything you said… it helps me so much to better understand the diversity of Evangelical perspectives. We all just want good people in office!
Agreed about having a candidate on the ballot with good character you feel happy to vote for and support. Now if only at least one of the two major parties could find such a person for the next presidential election I won’t have to write-in a name like last time!
This really resonated with me as an evangelical women. I voted democrat and of course told my husband! This morning as I was walking to the polls I was thinking about just what you said – I grew up in a republican household where we voted based on things like abortion. How the stakes have changed. “No candidate or party is going to align with your views 100%, so there will always be compromises. ” – so true. The Republican response to a lot of issues lately have been sad and honestly revolting. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and views <3
Hannah, have you listened to yesterday’s episode of The Daily? It was exactly about women in your position! In any event, I’m sorry you had to compromise on something that was very important you, but just want to say I really respect your giving thought and consideration this election season and having the courage to break from the party trenches to do what you believe is best for our country. I think we could all use a bit of that courage these days, because man, these trenches are getting DEEP and are starting to separate us from one another….
@JILLIAN Yes I just finished it! It was enlightening and encouraging to hear we aren’t alone. Hopefully it makes a difference this time around.
I am an evangelical Christian woman, 31 years old, and a married momma… and I have historically leaned slightly right/Republican. However, I have been voting more independent and sometimes slightly left of center:Democrat since Obama. I will be voting today mostly for either all women or independents,… I just can’t, in good conscious, vote for the malicious republicans pigs that are currently our options… they are just far too corrupt and out of line right now, even if my views are indeed usually more conservative… ? not today.
I’m in Florida so you better believe I voted!! and yes, I align with your views Emily!!!
Today was my first time voting democrat. The Georgia R candidate comes across very similar in personality as Trump and I absolutely can’t with my right conscience vote anyone like that in. I’d rather have a GOOD PERSON in office that I have disagreements with fiscally or maybe socially than someone I see as prideful, arrogant, lying, manipulative, and fear mongering.
GOD BLESS YOU.
Thank you!
I stood in the pouring rain for an hour to vote in DC where I have no voice in Congress. #taxationwithoutrepresentation
When I moved to the DC area in 1990 I really wanted to live downtown. But, the corrupt DC government and not being able to have a representative in Congress were two of the main factors that kept me from doing so. I understand the historical reason why there is no Congressional representative and support that position, but didn’t want that for my personal life. We’d love to have you in Virginia if you decide representation is an important enough factor for you, too!
I voted, and I was so excited to see a line going out the door when we got there!
The artist’s name is “Libby” VanderPloeg.
I was in line right when the polls opened at 7 am and still had to wait 35 minutes before casting my ballot. It was worth the wait!
Over the summer my dad passed away. Up until his untimely death he was Treasurer of the Dems group in his rural GA county. I vote every election anyway, but this time I cast my ballot for those who couldn’t and like him no longer can.
YES!!!
I voted by mail but will try to avoid the news today. It’s too nerve racking.
So nervous about outcome of this election. Almost nauseous worrying that this will turn out like the presidential election where I was so optimistic because of the positive polling, only to be devastated by the final result. This time we must vote in droves to put the brakes on this runaway train.
what was the podcast? I’d be interested to listen too!
Me too. Would love to listen.
The podcast is “The Daily”. It is a half hour report on topical issues from The New York Times. I believe the episode being mentioned is from Mon. or Tues. Nov. 5th or 6th.
The podcast is “The Daily”. It is a half hour report on topical issues from The New w York Times. The podcast mentioned is from Monday, Nov. 5th
I voted! Brought my 2 year old with me to drop off my ballot and get a sticker. Trying to instill a love for democratic participation early! Thanks for this post.
I voted for lots of different parties: Republic, Democrat, and third-party. I voted based on the approach, philosophies, and qualifications of the individual candidates. I am unaffiliated and I will remain that way (I live in a Democratic area of a Republican state). I think we should just work together more.
I live in a Republican state. I’m a registered Republican so that I can vote for the least worst candidate from that party. I vote my voice, so there are times I vote Republican, but we’ve had some doozies here lately in everything from Governor to County Commissioners (nothing like a scandal involving the FBI right before the election!) so I want my say in the primary race for the Republican party.
Biggest voter turnout I’ve ever seen at the time I go. I always go early, before work and usually am in and out in 15-20 minutes, even on Presidential election years. So, I was so surprised to pull in the parking lot and see a line out the door. Thankfully they did bring the line in to wind through the warm hallways instead of keeping everyone out in the chilly wind, but no other complaints from me. Just glad to see so many people getting out during a midterm election. It took me an hour this morning to get through the process and I would have waited longer if necessary.
VOTED! A week and a half ago. Almost wished I’d waited to vote today.
Voted. Registered Republican in Philly suburb but voted mostly Democrat as I find Trump’s message to be shameful and not a voice I want for our country. I will cheerfully pay more in taxes for women’s rights, human rights and a respectful tone from our politicians.
Yes, go vote!!! I always vote first thing on my way to work at 7 am so the day doesn’t inadvertently get away from me. Lines are never long and it’s a great way to start your day knowing you’ve participated in our wonderful democracy. We ALWAYS take the kids with us to show by example how important voting is and your civic responsibilities should be taken seriously, plus they love getting the “Future Voter” sticker. Leading up to election day we spend parts of our dinner conversations discussing the issues, not only the candidates but also the fiscal items, bond referendums and state constitutional amendments that will be on the ballot. Since my husband and I lean to different sides of the political spectrum, it’s easy for us to present both sides of issues and reasons why people would vote differently. After voting this morning, on our way to work we listened to the latest RadioLab podcast on an alternate voting method used in different countries. Very interesting but also alarming their reporting that more and more people no longer consider living in a democratic country important. Please teach your children how special and fragile democracy is! After I… Read more »
Hey Emily,
Would you mind sharing the link to the podcast you mentioned? Thanks!
The podcast is “The Daily”. It is a half hour report on topical issues from The New York Times. The podcast mentioned is from Mon. Nov, 5th.
I voted by mail a while ago and I’m so nervous I’m going to throw up. I’ve always been progressive but my liberal bubble was popped in the worst way when Drumpf was elected. I just want to know that our state (OR) and country care about people first. We have a sanctuary state repeal on the ballot here and I am SO NERVOUS. I’m babbling. I’m a mess.
I voted over my lunch hour today. I didn’t get a sticker because they had already RUN OUT! Woo hoo!!!!! I grew up in a very Republican household, but today, I voted for Beto. We have had such indecency in office; we need a moral person who cares about people more than $ and corporations. We need good examples for our children. I will probably pay more taxes, but I’ll be able to sleep better at night.
Yay Beto!
Share the podcast please?
The podcast I think people are asking about in “The Daily Podcast” From the New York Times, Michael Barbaro. The podcast from Nov. 5th. “White, Evangelical and Worried About Trump”, it’s worth the read.
Question to anyone –
Do you think that people who disagree with you (on these political issues) are rude, mean, uncaring, evil people?
I don’t. I would guess that 99% of the people here equally want to fix problems, but have different ideas of how.
Well said!! And no, I do not feel that way either.
But, reading all the responses above saddens me because so many respondents felt the need to attack the respondents who may not have shared their views. I don’t understand why that is………
Exactly…I would think most Americans have the same wants and desires. As adults, I would think we could work together to achieve this, and be respectful to one another while doing it.
I used to think that people who disagreed with me were simply that – people who disagreed with me. However, I have been insulted, bullied and brought to tears in the past two years because of having a different opinion. Let me see, I dared to ask someone to show some empathy for the gays who were upset that Trump was elected. It got so vicious that I sobbed. I have been condescended to and told I had the mentality/knowledge of a middle schooler because I disagreed. I expressed an opinion on a friend’s facebook page and another poster told me to STFU. I go out of my way to be polite and never call names. So, lately, I do often feel that people with other opinions are mean because they are being mean. I often try to avoid discussion but, to be honest, I struggle with that because I don’t want to sit on the sidelines and watch things happen that I disagree with. If someone I disagree with and I have a respectful exchange, I always thank them for it.
I don’t! I think everyone is entitled to their opinion. Just because you vote Republican doesn’t mean you hate minorities and just because you vote Democratic doesn’t me you want your taxes raised. Not everybody fits into every box and we have to let people speak and be heard and understood! Unless you’re a KKK or White Supremacist then I don’t think your voice matters TBH.
But they’re really not just political issues. They’re identity issues too. I mean, laughing at a sexual assault victim (as Republicans did during the Kavanaugh hearings) is rude, mean, uncaring, and evil. I don’t think that a simple evil/not evil dichotomy does much good, but Republicans have been doing some pretty damn rude, mean, uncaring, and evil things.
Jenny…you can’t lump all people into one group by saying, “Republicans have been doing some pretty damn, rude, mean, uncaring, and evil things.” I’ve been verbally attacked by many Democrats for admitting I’m am conservative and voted for Trump. I’ve been called some pretty horrible & horrific names. I would never be inclined to think ALL Democrats behave in the same rude manner. We simply can’t lump all people together like that…communication breaks down and we’ll never get anywhere.
Like Stu said, unless your KKK or a White Supremacist (and I’ll add the hate group of Antifa) all of our voices matter. 🙂
So Tracy, you seriously think that just not being in the KKK/being a white supremacist makes everybody ok? You need to face that if you voted for Trump, you voted for a guy who condones sexual assault, racism, and—relevantly—voter indimidation. That’s a pretty bad thing in my book.
Hi Jazmine. YES, I do think the people in the current administration are rude, mean and uncaring. I’m half middle eastern and half Latina but I was born and raised here. This is not the first election I’ve participated in but it’s the first one where I’ve been afraid to voice my opinion or sometimes go out in public. I live in a red state and I’ve experienced such vitriol since Trump came on the scene (even before he got elected). People have harrased my family and called us names and people we thought were friends now share posts on social media about how we immigrants should go back to where we came from. I lived through 9/11 when the backlash to Middle Eastern people was bad (our local mosque was vandalized) but nothing is as bad as this. The president and his party have contributed to that. If you can’t see that, please open your eyes to how your fellow Americans have it in Trump’s America.
Thank you V, Tracy, Jonel, Stu, Jenny, and Zara. I appreciate your sharing your views.
I definitely think there are people on both sides who have been rude, mean, and uncaring. I kind of feel like they are individuals, though. (As opposed to – as soon as I hear that they disagree with me, I automatically label them as rude, mean, and uncaring.)
I have family members on the opposite pole as I am, but I know that deep down, we both care about people and want good outcomes.
Thanks for reminding us all! I early voted and am heartened by the amount of people I’m seeing on social media posting about it. Hoping for a brighter future for us all!
Voted here in Oregon with my 18 y/o granddaughter. We took our ballots to the ballot box at our courthouse to celebrate her first time voting. And I love Oregon’s vote by mail system!
Voted blue for the first time ever in the state of Texas because I value all lives. The podcast you mentioned is my friend, Tess. So proud to know her.
Tess is so brave! Her conversation with her dad is the kind of conversation I haven’t been able to have with my folks, so it was almost therapeutic for me to hear it and relate SO MUCH to their dynamic. I’ve been sharing that podcast with all of my friends.
I voted last week. Here in Florida, we have a very close race for Governor and I wanted my vote to count. While I don’t particularly care for either candidate, I voted Republican. The Democratic candidate wants to increase corporate taxes (which will likely cause some companies to leave the state and cost many people their jobs), institute a state income tax, reduce Homestead Exemptions on property, repeal Stand Your Ground laws and he’s not very fond of law enforcement (to put it mildly). I don’t mind paying my fair share, but if you work or own a home in Florida…you will soon find yourself footing the bill for the masses who do not work.
I’m appreciative of the opportunity to vote and am grateful for it.
Voted via mail 2 weeks ago. Feeling meh. I live in KS and this is a huge election for us. I basically want to go to bed and forget about it. A lot of people are terrified of what it will mean for our state if Kobach is elected (Trump loves him, nuff said), but are there enough to get over their party line BS? Likely not… However, I did enjoy taking my daughter to vote in our primary election – it was her first time – she’s 18. I helped her sign up to vote by mail – we’ve got to make it stupid easy for kids to vote, otherwise they won’t.
I have always identified as an Independent. When I was a registered Democrat, I often crossed the aisle to vote for the other party. I registered as a Republican several years ago but, due to Susan Collins and her vote on Kavanaugh, I voted a straight Democratic ticket this election with one exception. I did vote for Angus King, an Independent who caucuses with the Democrats. Ever since the last election, I have been horrified by our President. I emailed Susan Collins to tell her that her actions had consequences and that I was tired of her not doing what the people whom she was elected to represent wanted. I am nervous but excited as well. The lines at the polls were VERY long and I am hopeful that others are speaking up against the hate that is happening in our political world these days.
I’m an independent who more often than not votes republican but no more! Changed my party affiliation and voted straight democratic this time. “He who shall not be named” and those who won’t stand up to him in the Republican Party changed all that for me
I voted last week. Democrats all the way! Go BLUE!!!
I voted!! But it honestly worries me how few people I saw at my polling station!! Hopefully more go and cast their votes!
I grew up in a Republican household (though my mother was staunchly pro-choice and always believed that the right to choose would never be abrogated); the politics were mostly fiscal and had nothing to do with what we’d now call “social issues” (we didn’t care whether someone was gay and want to get married or wanted to have an abortion, for example). During law school, I became a democrat because the social issues, to me, are a lot more important than any fiscal issue ever could be. Lots of commenters state that they voted republican because of taxes and I frankly find that shocking and dismaying. The way this message translates (to me) is that they care more about their take-home pay than they do about fundamental rights for citizens who live in this country. And I understand that many people say, “Well, I want to use that money to donate to organizations in which I believe.” Okay, fine, but did you actually do that with your tax cut? Could you even identify your tax cut? I pay a lot in taxes. My husband and I make in the mid-six figures. I’d gladly pay more if it meant that everyone… Read more »
Anybody here from Canada or Europe or somewhere with universal healthcare? What is your experience with that system? Has it been good or bad? Something I worry about as a Republican is Dems wanting to change our healthcare to something like that. I’ve spoken to some people from universal healthcare systems and they have all told me they hate it. They have to wait months and months for surgery and can’t even choose the best doctor! They are just given whoever the government decides and have to wait forever in pain. I definitely think we need something better than what we have now but with the rising costs of healthcare I’m DROWNING since Obamacare came into effect.
I’m curious to read these responses as well. From what I’ve seen, on admitedly left-leaning boards, are Canadians and Europeans who admit their systems have flaws but would never trade universal healthcare for what the United States has. It may be true that people in Canada or the UK have to wait longer for certain treatments, but in the US, if you can’t afford the treatment, you may not get it at all. Prior to Obamacare, if you had certain pre-existing conditions or had maxed out your lifetime benefits, you were out of luck as far as insurance was concerned – unless you could get it through an employer. To me, there is no excuse for propping up a system that forces people to choose between seeking medical treatment and paying their bills. Obamacare has many problems, and it was rushed through, but it also does good things. There is so much data about universa healthcare out there, there must be a way to look at the different models, find what works (in a country similar to ours in size, demographics, etc), and modify it for the United States. I think if Congress could stop posturing long enough to determine… Read more »
Hi Stu, I’m a Canadian and also a health care worker. I am so grateful for our system. While I acknowledge its flaws (long wait times for *elective* procedures, no universal dental or vision coverage…) I am able to treat anyone who walks into my emergency room and get them the urgent care they need, regardless of their social or financial standing. I cannot imagine having to turn someone away, or know that they did not seek care due to financial fears. I work with an incredible group of well educated and caring professionals, many of them immigrants. A lot of the push back I’ve seen on line from Americans who reject the idea universal healthcare seems to be about, “my taxes shouldn’t pay for *that person’s* treatment”. That may be a cultural difference. Most of my neighbours see the value in paying taxes to help create a healthier society over all, as that benefits everyone.
Hi – British person here. We have the NHS and it’s a pretty revered part of our society. Yes, there are issues with wait times and our options aren’t always as extensive as they might be BUT our healthcare is free at the point of access – money isn’t even mentioned. I had never seen a medical bill until I lived abroad and I found it incredibly stressful to have to think of money at such a vulnerable time. Peoples opinions differ on tax/ government spending etc in Britain too, so I’m anxious not to speak for everyone. However, I have never heard a single person say that we should get rid of the NHS. People certainly get frustrated at the strain the system is under (which is pretty massive at the moment) but the solution is generally thought to be putting more money into it. It becomes a matter of debating for solutions to raise this money, not a matter of whether we should have universal healthcare. I’ve read that polls show 2/3 of the public would be willing to pay more tax to support the level of funding needed for the NHS, although I certainly haven’t done the… Read more »
ps if you’re interested in some pro universal healthcare attitudes towards it, I recommend this article: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/jun/16/forever-grateful-what-i-owe-nhs-nadiya-hussain-clive-james
Thank you everyone for your viewpoint!! It was very helpful to hear perspectives who FAVOR the NHS and Canadian system when the online options I have heard were not thrilled with it.
Hello Stu, I am from Germany and yes we also have universal healthcare, which is part of the universal social insurance (which insures also risks such as maternity, long-term care, occupational accident, occupational disease, unemployment and reduced earning capacity). Half of the costs are paid by the employees and half by the employers, each part pays 7,3 % of the employee’s individual salary . And to be clear: I never ever would like to change this system! I don’ t have to worry about paying the doctor or paying my rent. And I know that everybody in my society has this privilege and nobody will be excluded from it because of a lower income. Children are automatically insured by their parents and older people by their pension insurance. That’s why the 7,3 % are totally worth it to me! About this “I’ve spoken to some people from universal healthcare systems and they have all told me they hate it. They have to wait months and months for surgery and can’t even choose the best doctor! They are just given whoever the government decides and have to wait forever in pain.”: Well, I never met a person in Germany who thinks… Read more »
I’m from the UK, I’m a passionate supporter of the NHS and have studied international healthcare (albeit a while ago) Yes, on the whole we do wait longer for operations and we don’t get to choose our consultant. But on the flip side, I’ve never felt the need to choose my consultant (the need for choice isnt really ingrained in the UK yet) alhough its not “allocated by the government” but by the medical team, often based on the specialism of the consultant if relevant. I personally am more than happy to wait an extra month or so for an operation if it means that everyone who needs care, gets the best clinically-proven treatment, free at the point of care which I believe to be a fundamental human right. Plus on a cost per outcome basis, our care is actually better than the US. And while I’m on a roll, I believe free mental health care (albeit shockingly underfunded here) is also a basic human right and that providing free and easily accessible contraception (as in the UK) is a far better way to reduce abortion rates than criminalizing the actual operation (although I don’t have any comparison figures between… Read more »
Hi Stu, are you a bot?
From an Atlantic Article about universal healthcare:
“Earlier this year, the Commonwealth Fund released a ranking of 11 developed countries’ healthcare systems. The American one, the world’s most expensive, ranked dead last.”
Hey Erin- definitely a real human. I’m asking the question to get real people’s opinions. I never said the US had a great system because I don’t think we do. Something I am glad we have from Obamacare is free birth control! I had only spoken to Canadians and Brits who weren’t thrilled with their system- that was their opinion . I’m sure people in other countries disagree on many issues I.e Brexit. Caroline- I love your comment on free mental health care. If we had more people in therapy perhaps we wouldn’t have so many shooting each other up.
I am American but lived in the UK for 10 years as a tax-paying resident. I much prefer the UK system and was always as pleased (if not more so) with my care in the UK as I am in the US. By far one of the best things (as a previous commenter said) is the lack of stress over whether insurance will cover something (and how much) when you are ill or when you are about to have a baby, etc.
Hello there Stu, yes I’m from the UK. We have a national health service that has been seriously underfunded since the global recession, but I am still so grateful for it every single day. It is true that there are waiting lists for lots of things – these tend to be things like hip replacements, knee replacements, and other problems resulting from chronic conditions. It can also take a long time to get referrals for certain specialisms, like neurology, or mental health issues. I don’t want to sugar coat those problems. My dad needed to see a neurologist a few years ago and it took more than six months to get an appointment. It can also take a while to see your local GP, though if it’s urgent you will most likely get a same-day appointment. But I’d also like to share the other side. While it undoubtedly has many problems, the NHS does an amazing job. In just the last two years alone, me and my family have experienced: – Prostate cancer in my dad. He needed surgery, radiotherapy, ongoing medication — all FREE. – He was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s. He was given a specialist, dedicated Parkinson’s nurse… Read more »
I am in the unique position where I am from the US but currently live in Canada. I’ve been a tax paying professional in both jurisdictions and here are my general thoughts and observations: Canadian health care – less bells and whistles but high quality of care across the board. You pick your own physician and have what I call ‘top up’ insurance from your employer (or out of pocket) for things like dental coverage, massage, etc (think: Blue Cross Blue Shield). The system is designed like triage so if someone is higher need/at risk, they go to the front of the line. I agree with that methodology but there is a need for more expedited care options – ie: pay more to get your xyz elective procedure sooner via a private clinic. This would also lessen the burden on the public system. Taxes – I pay more in tax here but I paid ~4x more for my university education in the US than I would have at an equivalent school in Canada. Things like education and health care are heavily subsidized and are rather consistent based on region and socioeconomic areas. I’m a firm believer that from cradle to… Read more »
Kate and Martha, thank you so much for your insights they’ve truly been helpful. Martha, I specifically know somebody who had to wait for almost a year for a hip replacement so that’s interesting that you bring that up. My mom had TWO hip replacements here in one year. Knowing how much pain she was even in the short time she had to wait definitely colored my opinion with universal healthcare. I’ve enjoyed learning from you all today!
Wow, great thread on healthcare. Thank you all for contributing!
Yes! VOTE!
I voted last Sunday. I am very anxious to see the outcome as well. Fingers crossed.
Yes! VOTE!!!!!
I voted a few weeks ago in early voting so I could volunteer today. I am feeling cautiously optimistic that the people of our great country will get it together and vote us out of this cesspool we are currently in. I have champagne and tequila both, for tonight. Champagne if we win, tequila if we don’t.
I voted! I’m in Florida and very nervous. I wasn’t political at all until after the 2016 election. I switched my party and started working toward getting good people elected. Tonight we’ll see if the 2 years of work are paying off. Either way, though, turnout in my county is over 60% (!) with 2 hours left until the polls close. That’s a HUGE turnout of voters, and I’m so happy that people are getting involved in their democracy. Hopefully some great candidates win tonight who believe in the values that politics are currently lacking.
Why would you not ask to hear from Democrat that swung right this time? Just curious.
Does that describe you? If so, I’m curious.
I voted last week and was damn excited to do so. Go Red!
As a permanent resident Canadian here on a green card (married to my American husband), I can’t vote. But I canvassed for a democrat in a nearby district and have written hundred of postcards to democratic households all over the country to get out the vote in this election. The future is at stake, and I am praying America does the right/*left* thing.
Just a reminder that everyone on here is an actual human being, and deserves to be heard. As a (in my opinion) pretty brilliant candidate once said, “reasonable people can disagree on this issue” — this issue being most issues. It shouldn’t matter what news outlet an individual relies on, what church they do or do not go to, what candidate they support, etc. — as reasonable people (which I think we probably all think of ourselves as reasonable in our own right), we should be able to disagree without being disrespectful or offensive.
“It makes them no less American to come down on a different conclusion on this issue, right? You’re every bit as American all the same.”
FYI, Beto, the Democratic Senate candidate in the state of Texas said those things. It shouldn’t matter though whether he’s a Democrat or a Republican, it’s a beautiful and kind sentiment either way.
Just came back, and there were a lot more people there than usual … good! We met several of our neighbors as we walked over.
Trivia: they changed our “I voted” stickers. Shallow opinion: I like the new ones better. 🙂
I’ve registered as a permanent absentee voter, and it’s honestly the best thing I maybe have ever done. The ballot comes right to my house, a few days after the voter guide, which means I never miss an election. The ballot arrives at least 2-3 weeks before the election, so I have plenty of time to look at it before filling it out and dropping it off. This year CA even included an “I Voted!” sticker with the package! Full service. And then the place where I dropped it off had a bowl of leftover halloween candy! Bonus.
I never post on blogs but I just listened to this podcast that seriously rocked my world with regards to the American political system. Regardless of your political leanings, as a working mom with a 3 and a 1 year old (meaning time is at a premium!) this is absolutely worth the listen (or transcript read if you prefer). Don’t be put off by the title if economics isn’t your thing; it’s not usually my thing either but I can’t stop talking about this. http://freakonomics.com/podcast/politics-industry/
I voted this morning with my 18 year-old daughter who was voting for the first time. I was so proud of her, and she was proud of herself. We’d been having discussions about the candidates for weeks leading up to the election. I was a great experience.
I’m a Canadian citizen currently living in the states. So sat and watched on the sidelines today for the voting party happening down here. But just to add a bit of lightness to these comments – My sister and I were discussing recently our frustrations with all the different political parties within Canada and she suggested there needs to be a “MOM Party”. The slogan could be “I’m too tired to remember my own name, but I’ll be fair, budget wisely, and will be kind to people”. They’d have my vote for sure! ?