Like many (most, all maybe?), my political emotions are in a constant state of tug-of-war. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I thought the most accurate political description of myself was either liberal republican or conservative democrat. Under examination, I imagine either party “box” is filled with dozens of different ideologies just like me, many demanding their voice be heard and their demands take precedence over everyone else in their collective sandbox. More importantly though is whatever choices made in that collective sandbox, it is understood that everyone must support it. In my heart of hearts, I can’t believe there is not one single common thread both parties can’t find to unite them in a cause. Nothing. Gun reform for example. I don’t believe for a second republicans aren’t heartbroken over recent events, yet because the “party” says no, there can’t even be a conversation. Conversely, I’m sure there are gun-owning democrats that want reform but not any bans. Recently, I came across a program on our local PBS station called “Roots, Race, and Culture, which explores issues from a black, or African-American perspective. The episode that caught my attention was “Black Conservatives.” It was enlightening in the way it focused exclusively on core party beliefs and not the rhetoric. Distilled down to its very essence is (as opined by the guests) republicans are for less government and democrats are for more government. There were other examples given of course, all built from the less is better perspective. Initially, after watching this, I felt a sense of appreciation for the clarity, but as I continued pondering it, I realized it isn’t that simple.

I decided to search for a test or quiz to help me figure out what I am or if such a name existed. Google found the site immediately and it was better than I hoped when I saw it is Pew Research. There is a 16 question quiz. It says I am a Stressed Sideliner. It goes on to say I have mixed political views (I would have never guessed…) and have very little interest in politics, which is totally untrue. It also says I rarely vote, which is also bullshit! I do agree with the assessment that I am generally disconnected from the two major parties. Anyway, I have included a link here to my results. https://pewrsr.ch/3QkaVCS. You may want to take the test yourself and see how you do. If you do, be honest. I would enjoy hearing your results and if you feel they are accurate.

So now what? I wonder if my results are from years of anger and frustration with our options for leadership. The greatest country in the world with a population of 330 million and this is the best we can do? C’mon USA, let’s demand more, and hold them accountable, regardless of their party!

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