Here in West Virginia the primary election day is a little over a week away. Other state primaries are in full swing. So now it is time to decide for whom to vote. It is a daunting task, but I have learned several “tricks of the trade” from years of experience as a candidate, a voter and the holder of a social security card. Here they are.
First of all, get in your car and drive around town. The candidates that have the most yard signs out are obviously the most qualified and deserve your support. If you like the color of a particular candidate’s signage that is also another good reason to vote for that person. I usually take a pad of paper with me so I can write down the names I keep seeing as I drive around. Yard signs are a sure sign (no pun intended) that the candidate is not only qualified but deserves your vote.
Then take a look at billboards and newspaper ads. What you are looking for are those candidates who are going to “fight for you.” You also want to chose people who are for the people meaning not those who are for cattle, pets or inanimate objects. Another sure sign of a good candidate is the presence of the American flag or at least the red, white and blue colors. This shows you that the candidate is a true American and therefore deserves your support. Finally, if there are children or family shown in the ads then there is no question – you need to vote for that person. If someone is married and has young children they are obviously qualified to decide matters such as taxes, pensions, criminal laws and budgets.
Finally, pay attention to the radio and TV ads. These are a good source of information too. In a radio ad what you are looking for are statements that the candidate is a “proven leader,” “wants to serve you and his/her city/county/state or whatever” and that he or she “thinks we can do better.” I absolutely will not vote for any candidate who brags that he or she is inexperienced, lazy and thinks things should be worse rather than better. That’s the key.
With regard to TV ads, look for which candidates are smiling. That is important. Then also see if they are standing with people like city workers, firemen, children or average folks. This shows they are the right candidate for the job. Proof positive.
So now you know how to vote. The information you need to decide is right in front of you but you need to know what to look for. So I hope this will help.