Reply #57: Unfortunately, we'll never know that, the way things are going

[no name no slogan]

First and foremost, voters appreciate honesty above all else in their candidates, oftentimes more so than their party affiliation. That was the main reason why Repubs voted for Wellstone, why Jesse Ventura became governor, and why moderates and liberals in AZ have voted for John McCain. It was also the reason why Ross Perot had such a groundswell in 1992 (where he actually led both Clinton and BushI at one time): he was NOT afraid to tell the truth, and stuck by what he said. He didn't pander to a specific audience, but just laid bare the facts and where he stood.

Believe it or not, the non-political activist voters are more motivated by personal traits than they are issues in most elections. They want to vote for an honest, forthright candidate who's not afraid to take a stand and hold it, irregardless of what it is.

So far, John Kerry's not doing a good job at this. He's catered (some would say sucked up) to every audience he's been put in front of, even contradicting himself many times on the campaign trail. His half-@$$ed explanations of his IWR vote have convinced nobody. His flip-flops on trade have inspired nothing but apathy.

People hate politicians, but they know they're a necessary evil, and will therefore vote for the most un-politicianly candidate available.