After a presidency riddled with scandals and embarrassment, this country needs a leader of unquestionable integrity and firm moral character. It needs a leader who will not change with the tide of popular opinion, but one who will stand firm in the face of opposition, fighting for the issues he believes in. Many have criticized Bill Bradley for his lofty idealism, but we believe this is why he should be admired.
Throughout this campaign, young voters have been reproached for their apathy and disinterest in the election process. Our parents remember their own youth, defined by political activism, and marvel at our indifference, but how can we become excited about "politics as usual?" The answer may be Bill Bradley, a politician who shares our disdain for politics as usual.
Our generation is sick of dirty, mud slinging politics. We are tired of listening to candidates who say one thing and mean another. We want a candidate who is willing to stand by his beliefs, fight for his ideals and maybe even change the world. No one is suggesting this will be an easy task, but Bradley is willing to try. He is a candidate who has refused to run negative campaign ads. He is the only one who has proposed universal health coverage and he is the only one whose confidence in himself and the correctness of his beliefs has never wavered. On Tuesday, Bradley is the best choice for Democrats.
Eight years of bitterly partisan government and a nation almost equally as divided have rendered the time right for a leader who can unify the country and its people and work towards practical, moderate solutions to some of the our biggest problems.
On the Republican ballot, that man is George W. Bush. While some might be surprised at our selection, the reasons are clear -- he has a proven track record in Texas of bringing people on all sides and of all races together for common gain. His brand of "compassionate conservatism" has taken swipes from members of both parties, but from taxes to social security to immigration, Bush employs a fair, common-sense approach to legislation.
We admire John McCain's personal history and his use of that experience to encourage young people, many at this College, to become excited and optimistic about government, but we did not feel that was enough to elect him the Republican nominee.
However, we hope Bush learns from his challenger and strives toward the same campaign finance goals -- if not through the same method -- that McCain has successfully brought to light in this campaign.
A tough primary contest has strengthened George W. Bush as a candidate, but as a leader he has always known where he stands. He is for lower taxes, reducing the deficit and restoring family values to the White House and the country. But he is also understanding of politics and its nature. He'll compromise when he needs to and will be able to work with Congress to get things done. For the Republicans, New Hampshire should pick Bush.
