Originally Posted by The Villager II

I have done some poll and article research into two specific issues that have been giving a false name to conservatives on this forum:

Are most conservatives dead set on Pro-Life.
Are most conservatives dead set on Religion First.

I have found that MOST conservatives would not change their opinion of a candidate simply based on his view of Abortion rights.

I have also found that MOST conservatives are more concerned with fiscal policy of a candidate than they are with his or her religious beliefs.

So what I have decided, regardless of how outrageous some of the claims by either side on this forum are, they are in general out of touch with the vast majority of Americans both Republican and Democrat.

I now understand clearly that I am in fact A CONSERVATIVE, but that does not make me a Republican. I have voted REP all but one election for my entire voting life, but I will from this coming election forward cast my vote for the best candidate. We live in a very culturally and religiously and sexually diverse country. Since I cannot condemn all Gays, Non-Christians, Non-Whites nor even Atheists, then I feel it is important to allow them all the privileges and rights of being an American. If that means voting for a GAY, Black, Atheist Women that is clearly the best person for the job, then so be it. I think that is the American way as intended by the US Constitution.

I have been pulled in both directions on this Forum by some well meaning right wing folks and well meaning left wing folks. I will never again consider voting for or supporting a party just because it is a party. Now, since I always like to include something in my threads to irritate the radical among us:

If you make your political choices based on your view on pro-life only or pro choice only or based on the candidates religion or lack of religion, you are being selfish in respect to the rest of YOUR countries citizens. That goes both ways. Are we a diverse country or are we no different than countries like IRAN where one religious belief runs every aspect of your life. Do you want true freedom in this country or do you want your personal beliefs to dictate everyone else?