Independents value their principles

I would like to acknowledge a common belief: Most people are somewhat disenfranchised with their respective political identification.

We have historically aligned ourselves with the left or right because we feel compelled to identify with a governing force that maintains a viable stake in this country’s operation.

This want of membership, out of the urge for significance, facilitates these civic misdoings and sets precedent for future governmental bodies.

I make an attempt not to be outwardly bitter when it comes to politics and, in this instance, the presidential campaign. But I can’t seem to quell my absolute discontent with the actions and evolving doctrines of our two-party system.

I am not specifically attacking Sen. John McCain or Sen. Barack Obama.

If you have a brain in your head, despite your political tendency, you know these men are professional politicians.

They sold out long ago to get where they are now, and their relentless ambition will drive them to say anything to get your vote.

But this is about what they represent, and not who they are.

What they represent is a pseudo-oppressive political machine that has become so dominant during the last 200 years we feel powerless to change it.

In the spirit of checks and balances of power, we should express our disapproval for the political stronghold in the coming election simply by voting for a third party.

In this election, our leading third party choices are the seemingly ubiquitous – at least around the time of presidential elections – Ralph Nader running as an Independent and Bob Barr running as a Libertarian.

A lot of Nader’s ideas are good, but while I love his spirit, some of his positions on issues are way out there.

But Barr is a promising candidate.

The Libertarian Party has increased its constituent base and legislative stake every year since its inception in 1971, and it is the U.S.’s third largest and fastest-growing party.

The common belief many people have for third-party presidential candidates is that these politicians publish grand ideas on how to reform our economy, society and role in international politics because they know they are not going to get elected and won’t have to follow through on them.

Fringe parties are made up of people who value their principles more than seeing their ideas put into compromised action.

Instead of being another American who approaches politics with an unbelievable degree of intellectual lethargy, think about which box you check on Election Day.

Do your due diligence and research your future leader. You might decide his substantial experience is a negative attribute because he is experienced in a corrupt system.

Voting for third-party candidates should not be thought of as a wasted vote.

Instead, it should be construed as a barometer for the public’s displeasure with the norm.

E-mail Dan Bainbridge at discourse@unfspinnaker.com.