Meyer AP Government - Election 2008

Three weeks from today...

2008-10-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

... we might have some results.

After reading through the latest blogging by the handful of active participants, I have some observations.

Like many Americans, it seems as if many students have burned out on the debate, have made up their mind and find little value in trying to convince others, don't care, or simply think in silence.
Like other Americans, a few still think they can influence others who have set their positions and will not be changing.
Some have trouble talking about politics in a manner that respects differences.
Some speak to be heard, but struggle to hear what is spoken.
Like many Americans, and as hoped for my many candidates (or their media teams), some are overly simplistic and are content with throwing catch phrases, inuendo, and dirt rather than having respectful and meaningful discussions. Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neill would struggle to watch the level of tolerance of politcal differences.

The next three weeks will go quickly. Let's hope that those who end up on the losing side (or loosing for those of you who know my pet peeve.) are able to, once again, say "It was a good game. We'll try again next time." And those that win will understand that winning the election is only the beginning of the work.

So continue to argue, comment, debate, and play. But please do so in a manner that doesn't fall to the depths of those playing the game professionally. Maybe then, more will play.

The Conventions Are Over ... and now we begin again!

2008-09-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

There are two months left. Who would you prefer? Why?

Remember - Be CIVIL!

So it is late January... (DEMOCRATS FOCUS)

2008-01-23T09:07:00.000-08:00

So we let the last question percolate for awhile, a few played, and most said "no, thank you" to the discussion. But let's be honest. If you look back on a number of comments so far, many opinions have probably changed or become more meaningful.

Given that you, as 17 and 18 year olds SHOULD be voting this year (yes, I know some aren't old enough, but that doesn't mean I don't think you should be allowed to do so!), let's see where you stand as we near the Colorado caucus.

As with the primary/caucus system that will decide separately the two major candidates, we will offer on question on the Republicans and one on the Democrats. As with the system in some states, we will allow independents to play on either question. And as can happen, we'll allow R's to play on the D question and D's to play on the R.

So ... who should be the Democrat's candidate for President? Why?

It's late January and... (REPUBLICAN FOCUS)

2008-01-23T08:58:00.001-08:00

The Early Favorites

2007-08-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

As of Labor Day, 2007, who are your early favorites for the 2008 election? Why are they your favorites?