Shameless Promotion

For those of you who regularly read the blog, you know I'm pretty anti-McCain. But that has never meant that I'm against the Republicans. I view myself presently as a centerist; a conservative Democrat, or a liberal Republican; or better yet, an Independent. I had a great conversation with a guy I work with the other day (for the purposes of this entry he will be referred to as Dr. Snapples). Dr. Snapples, the other clerks, and myself frequently find our conversations revolving around politics. I'm not sure which way he's leaning. He's a well thought out guy, and I've found a lot of respect for him (as well as the other clerks).

We were talking about the current election and borderline unlawful and unethical practices of both sides campaigning for their respective candidates. Dr. Snapples said one of the most powerful things I've heard in a while. Essentially it was, a voter should look at the issues (s)he believes in and then find the candidate that supports those issues, as opposed to picking a side and finding ways to rationalize their positions and align them with your own. Powerful stuff. I think if we all looked inside we can acknowledge that both candidates have good, bad, and ugly about them. So when you go to the polls, please remember that.

For you Houston Residents, this part is important. With the disdain of the citizens of America for present politics, local politics will suffer. Particularly from straight-ticket voting. Straight ticket voting is possibly one of the least intelligent ways to waste your vote. Every candidate should get a fair look, and only then, should you make a decision. If you don't know the candidate, don't vote based on partisan affiliation.

Judge Halbach is the only judge I can speak for in the election. He's running for his seat in the 333rd District Court. He's been on the bench for 13 years now and has done a terrific job. He's also very fair and balanced (unlike FoxNews). He applies the law as it is supposed to be applied. In the modern era, partisanship can have a tremendously negative effect on the world in which we live. So it's important to elect those who are fit to sit on the bench.

Now, I concede, I don't know much about his opponent. But I do know what I've seen from Judge Halbach first-hand, and what I've heard from the legal community. His reputation is outstanding and he should be given a great look.

Check his website out here. Although his picture is a bit frightening at first glance, he has been a great judge and a great mentor. He is known for being fair to both plaintiffs and defendants, which has become more and more rare. His HBA poll ratings are the highest of any incumbent running in this election. He is more than qualified for this position.

I know many are presently frustrated with the issues before us. Crappy candidates. Horrible government. Even worse economy. But when you go to the polls remember that men and women have fought and died for our country and for our right to vote. Don't waste it. And don't ever vote straight-ticket. If you don't know the issues or the candidates, don't vote. Remember what voting is and remember that not everyone in our world has the opportunity. Value it. This year matters, both nationally and locally.

Also, the Judge is looking for willing supporters for November 4th. If you're in Houston and you'd like to help out on his campaign, he needs the support. Please contact me and I will help get you a spot. Also, all volunteers will be invited to an after-election party at the Westin Oaks in the Galleria.