As a reminder, here are my endorsements:
- Presidential Preference: Obama. I’ve read through his platform, and find I like his thinking and positions. I also feel he has the best chance to work with Congress without the rancor and baggage that might come with other Democratic candidates. I think he is much more aware of technology and the power of the Internet, and he appears to want to use it in a positive way to provide transparency in government, which is a good thing. He’s garnering interesting endorsements from astute folks.
Although his positions are very close to Hilary Clinton, I don’t think she is the right candidate because she would bring too much baggage with her in terms of the “Clinton Legacy” — in other words, both the Bush and Clinton dynastys are flashpoints for the other side in Congress, and actually create gridlock because of their history. I strongly believe that Hilary should stay in the Senate — she is this generation’s Ted Kennedy, and should be the voice for the liberal cause, fighting for the downtrodden in the Senate. That’s where she would be most effective. I also worry about the two-body problem: her famous hubby would likely serve only to create distractions in Congress, especially with the GOP as they feel he already had his opportunity. If she ends up being the Democratic nominee I could support her, but I don’t think she is the stronger nominee.
If you are Republican, I suggest a vote for McCain. Over the years, he has shown the ability to think. Although I don’t agree with his stand on many issues, I think he is the best of the current Republican field.
- Prop 91: Yes. This explains why.
- Prop 92: No. The only way to lower fees without raising taxes is by increasing debt. Much as I believe Community Colleges are a good thing, I don’t think this is the answer.
- Prop 93: No. This is a deceptive way for some folks to extend their terms. I might have supported it if current officeholders didn’t get an extension out of it.
- Props 94-97: No. Much as I would love the extra income, the numbers are inflated. I think better compacts can be negotiated.
- Prop S (Los Angeles): Yes. Although there are some ruses in here (although the rate is lowered, more money is raised; there is no guarantee for policy), the important facts are: (1) without the proposition, the phone tax income may be lost completely due to lawsuits, severely impacting the city’s budget; (2) Federal law prevents this from being a general tax on the internet. Basically, this proposition fixes the problem with the tax that created the lawsuits, and extends it to cover alternate phone services, such as VOIP (but not email).
Disclaimer: These positions reflect my personal thinking only.
