January 28, 2008

The Floridian primary taking place tomorrow will signal another major shift in the course of the election. It will likely dictate that Gov. Romney and Sen. McCain will be the major contenders for the Republican nomination. As yet, it is unclear what effect it will have upon the Democratic primary, since the Democratic delegates from Florida will not be seated. The results will nevertheless probably make difference in the course of the election, as Sen. Clinton has suggested campaigning to have Floridian delegates seated at the convention. Should she win the majority of the Democratic votes in Florida, it could provide a critical edge over Sen. Obama.

All this is enhanced by Florida's closed primary system, which means that the votes will likely be a very exact reflection the will of the Republican and Democratic parties in Florida.

In light of this situation, who should a voter choose?

It has by this point been almost universally acknowledged that all of the candidates have problems, and none seem to appeal to every base. This is normally the case in American politics.

I think that voters ought to go to the voting booth and determine which candidate has the character to do what is best for the nation, which candidate has positions which most closely reflects one's own positions, and which candidate is most likely to be able to win the general election.

Early indications are that the American people needs little reminding to participate in the political process. I pray that they do so thoughtfully and well.