3.11.2008

HTT - Party Edition


I'm off to Arizona for a fortnight so I don't have much time to stir up controversy. But I will toss out this question for you - Which political party makes you par-tay?

Since I asked, it's only fair that I tell you I'm a ...

Um, a ...

Well ... it's a complicated situation. I've been registered as pretty much everything. I started out as an Independent because that was my uninformed way of saying, "Who freaking cares about political parties? We should be voting for candidates!" I then registered as a Republican because I had an adolescent obsession with Richard Nixon. I saw his humanity in spite of his foibles and thought I could atone for his grievances by being a Republican.

But when the time came to register in Illinois, I had to face the cold, hard facts: I almost always vote for Democrats and my political beliefs are largely reflected in D candidates, although Republicans by and large have better hair and do represent my moral stance on a few key issues. But, again, who says I can't vote against my party on occasion?

So ... I'm a card-carrying Democrat who will totally vote for a Republican if I want to. (Except probably not in this election. My friend and I agree that McCain seems to have latent rage issues.)

Also, do you like to host a party or do you prefer to attend one?

As for myself, I always think I like to host, but then the pre-party stress reminds me that I make a better guest.

35 comments:

Leslie said...

well, i've always been a registered R, but some of them drive me so crazy I can't stand it. i'm holding my nose this election and voting for people i don't like, because i don't really love any of them. but vote i shall!

i was just peeved in our primary when we had to declare your party the minute you walked into the room. all the Ds were looking at us Rs like we were crazy and there were some mean R eyes lookin' the other way. not a comfortable little room, that polling place.

Leslie said...

oh, and wishing you lots of huggy times and some laughs, too, on your trip to AZ. lots of love is coming pdaddy's way.

steph said...

i'm w/ you 100%... at least in your current state. since i was 18 (almost 8 years now!), i've been a card-carrying democrat. though i've always agreed that we should vote for ppl not parties, i understand that i alone (simply by registering independent) will not change the system... i come from a long line of democrats. my dad (and for most of his life, though not now, my step dad) is a union man through and through, and while that's a whole 'nother topic, i am all about social programs and helping... mo' money, mo' problems... or something.

Melissa said...

Hi, I've been lurking for awhile, I hope you don't mind my response. I just thought i would respond to this question. I don't believe in more programs fixing things. I think that the people need to be more responsible for their lives. With that being said. I have used government programs, and this probably sounds hypocritical but I don't think they will help ANYONE in the long run. we used the programs for 5 years. My Husband was in school at the time and we did what we could. But the truth is that I knew alot of people on the programs and it is a probalem that can't be fixed by a program. We would have been forced to use another way if we had to. And so would other people. I think the way they are set up they will always keep people in the system. I don't think the system can be fixed. I think the people need to be fixed. Not something the government can do. I also encountered an attitude of people that are expecting others to 'fix' their lives and make it better. So after this big ol' long speel. I usually vote REpublican, they reflect my moral values, and I don't think that more money, or more programs will make our lives better. I don't love all the candidates. Not sure about McCain yet. But I don't think some of the other candidates have the experience behind them. I also don't want more taxes and programs enforced. Sorry, I'll get off my soap box. :) have a great day!

hilari said...

i am still a card carrying independent. not quite as uniformed as i was at 18, but still hoping to maintain some of my idealistic young ideas. like making every day a half day and having valet parking at all high schools. oh wait, i just might have some connections for that last thing.

Miriam Herm said...

Here, Here!

Jen said...

I was pretty staunch republican until this year. This election is really shaking things up for me. And I generally vote for a Democratic congressman because no one good ever runs against Matheson.

I like to host parties.

Karen Vutrano said...

1) I'm a Dem. I too would prefer to vote on people rather than issues, but until we can keep certain issues out of politics (where they never belonged in the first place), I am compelled to vote for the party that stands by my issues.

2) I completely agree that McCaine appears to have some serious rage issues.

3) I love to host.

Caroline C. Bingham said...

I like to host parties. And I'm in Arizona. So I'll throw a blog party and you show up, m'kay?

Oh, and I'm registered Rep. but I vote both ways. I have no loyalties.

Cichelli said...

Have fun in Arizona! You deserve a vacation and some fun in the sun.

I am a hard core Democrat. Political conversations with Republicans usually end up with me really pissed off. So it's awesome living in Utah.

We like to party. We like, we like to party. I'll host,or go. I think it's fun to do both and do them both often.

Lizzie said...

Wow I really hate politics. I am glad there are people out there that educate themselves and form opinions but as for me I figure I pretty much agree with the majority Utah vote anyway so...

I know, it's horrible.

Leisha Mareth said...

My response mirrors Jen. I've always been a staunch Republican until now. It's a big race and I'm waiting to vote my conscience...my conscience just isn't talking yet.

If it is close friends I love to host, if it is like a forced "get to know you" type of party I'd rather attend.

Sarah S said...

I'm an Independent, but this round I am voting for Obama, as I have already proclaimed in my blog :) I agree that it's time for CHANGE!!

I go way overboard (and stressed in the cleaning/realizing how much clutter I have and don't have time to fix it) when I host parties, so I am going to say I would rather attend parties.

acte gratuit said...

Nixon? Really???

Well, I'm a registered Independent but a staunch Republican. That's not to say I love everything about the party (or everyone) but I think as a whole, that's just the way I swing. I'm not a big fan of McCain but I think he's relatively honest.

I think Clinton and Obama are extremely extremely liberal and socialist. Re Obama, I think his appeal is very superficial and not many people know what he actually stands for or represents. (Which is a socialist state.) Only that he sounds good in theory.

Hillary is just another Clinton. Power hungry with lot's o' skeletons in the closet. Also a Socialist.

And though I think some liberal programs have their hearts in the right place, (even some socialistic principles) I think the institution of said programs is deplorable and hopelessly flawed. As evidenced by the horrendous welfare state. And the ineffectual environmental movement.

Wow. I can't believe I just voiced a real opinion here again. Dangit! This always gets me in trouble!

Oh, and I like to host parties because I'm lazy and don't like to leave the house. And it has the further benefit of motivating me to clean the house. And I don't have to worry about my children trashing someone else's house.
And I get compliments showered upon me for my excellent Marth-esque skillz. (That last hasn't actually happened yet, but it will someday.)

Laura, good luck on your trip! We're thinking of you!!!

Melanie M. McKinnon said...

this next election makes me want to puke. i miss mitt. and hate hosting parties. i hope i can see you whilst you are in az.

Anonymous said...

Where is my sister's comment? You know Sara has a thing or two to say about this. And I pretty much ride her political coat tails and back her up. I am a Republican. Always have been. I admit that I am not SUPER informed like some, but from what I do know...I stick with the Republicans. McCain is definitely not my favorite person, but he has got my vote. I think this country is going to turn ugly with either Obama or Clinton in the white house. Yikes!

Carrie said...

I agree with everyone that has commented that more programs means more problems.

And we really do NOTHING to motivate the less fortunate to become less less fortunate. My only fears and the reason I appreciate these programs is for children who would otherwise starve or suffer in other ways because of their lack of resources. I'm all for socialized/universal health care and other such programs FOR CHILDREN. All programs aren't bad, but some serious reform is needed before I throw my vote to someone wanting to spend more tax dollars on programs.

My father in law pays half of his income in taxes (he's retired, his income is his savings and investments, which he worked hard to not only earn the money but he worked hard to be smart about how to save/invest his money), but will barely have enough money to live on through out his retirement. I think its interesting that we're all eager for programs when really, as middle class Americans, our pocket books most likely will not be touched much.

I also find it interesting that as a faithful group of women we disregard issues important to our faith so blithely. I, like you, am a FIRM believer in the sanctity of the Lord's definition of family and in the values professed in our proclamation to the family. I don't think its a huge shocker to see that as society demands more 'tolerance' for people and makes more allowances for people's lifestyles that the world's definition and view of family disinegrates more and more. And with that all things good go by the wayside. There is a huge disconnect between what we believe and what we are willing to put our name behind, I guess.

Bottom line- my vote won't change much. My taxes will continue to go up. Slimey/untruthful/crazy men and women looking for power will continue to live in that big white house on Pennsylvania Ave. So I choose to vote for people that reflect my deep rooted moral values. Yep, I'm Republican. Cynical, I know... but it does help me sleep at night.


My solution to our nations problems:

Kill the Space Program!!!! And cut off Puerto Rico until they're willing to pay taxes. It's a start...

sara said...

R all the way but my party doesn't exactly make me want to party these days. I wouldn't be above crossing party lines in extreme circumstances... but McCain isn't quite bad enough for me to do it this time. If Hill or Barack were more moderate like, say, Joe Lieberman, I'd consider it.

And I totally agree with Melissa about the programs. Programs = higher taxes. Higher taxes = weaker economy. Free enterprise + individual responsibility = an America that works. I could say a lot more about "programs" but that would be too much of a tangent. Oh yeah and I agree with what Jamie said too.

As for parties, hostessing is stressful but afterwards I'm always glad I had an excuse to clean my house real good :)

And have a good trip!

Kate said...

I am a card carrying Republican- until now- and I am going to change that to independent. I don't think it is fair to make people decide on the party- we should be able to decide on the person. I am too, voting for Obama (and kind of freaking out that he is not way ahead of Ms. Hillary) McCain bothers me- I don't know- it is just a feeling I have- that he is not showing his true self. Oh- and I love to host a party- although it stresses me out a little and I take it out on my family- but I have gotten better... I am always up for a great party- anywhere!

Michele said...

I have been a staunch republican my entire life (big suprise huh?) and would probably never vote for a democrat- I blame my father who would probably disown me if I did. Although, I have been pondering sitting out this election. I have voted in every election since I turned 18 but I just don't feel like I can go to the polls this year and feel good about any decision that I would make there. I have almost lost sleep over this issue (it really is a sickness) but I just can't get over my complete lack of faith in ANY of the candidates and believe me, I tried. I even considered voting for Barack Obama , almost a mortal sin in my family, but upon reading about his policies I again felt that familiar feeling of disdain. Now that I have gone on about this so long I may just write my own blog about this year's election- I think I need some venting time. Why did you ever want to be my friend when I am this nuerotic??

Kate said...

Now that I am reading the other comments.. I disagree that programs do not work- Sure- I think some of them don't do the job... but- like Melissa said... her husband was able to further his education with these programs. Our country is turning into Upper Class and Lower Class and the middle class is losing ground. The only way to help this situation is to help the lower class come out of poverty. And that my friends is where we come in- we can't ignore the problems that there are around us- sure there are bad stories about the programs- but there needs to be some in place. I could go on and on- but I won't...

sara said...

Just wondered if any of these cross-overs who are voting for Obama in the fall actually know anything about what he stands for. The man talks a good talk but honestly, can you name one thing he has accomplished in his political life and/or specifics of his senate voting record. People really need to take a look at these things before November; you may be surprised. Or horrified. "Change" is fine and dandy as long it's in the right direction, and not just change for change's sake. But I do agree that we're being forced to choose the lesser of two evils this fall; it stinks.

(off my soap box now) -- I love when HTT's are political :)

Elisa said...

What a *GREAT* topic!

I used to be a Republican delegate, back in my earlier college days. I actually hosted a caucus at my house... That being said, it really bugged me when I was a delegate, all the "goodies" the candidates would send people with to my home to "encourage" me to vote for this or that person.

When I moved to Illinois, I found myself aligning more with the Democratic party, simply because voting only for my "morals" did not work for me any longer... there were too many other issues that I felt were being neglected/ignored! I feel that the republican party has gotten hung up on things that should not ever be brought into political races. And further I will vote for things that actually have an impact on me right now (the economy, the war, health care, etc)rather than simply on moral issues (I don't plan on having an abortion, or being in a gay relationship...)and I actually voted for Obama when he ran for congress in Illinois.

I agree with one of the commenters who said being a Democrat in Utah is difficult...(i also have a tendency to get irritated at the loyalty people feel for Bush. Lets get real... hes a complete moron!!) In Utah, I have found that people tend to think you have 'lost your testimony' because you align more with Democrats (i have since moved back to Utah)
So, in order to save my parents from having aneurysms, I tell them that I am a liberal Republican... that seems less offensive to them anyway.

Elisa said...

Check out this website.
www.electoralcompass.com
Its a wonderful site to find out your beliefs, and what you think is important, and then which candidate is most in line with your philosophies.

Someone said that they should find out what the candidates stand for. I agree. I thought that I would fall right in line with good ole Mitt (gasp... but hes Mormon, i'm Mormon, i should root for the Mormon, right?? wrong!)... but after reading the issues, I was surprised by how I aligned more with Hilary.
I 100% agree with what Katie said about the "programs" and the fact that the middle class is quickly dying out. We are becoming a society of working poor... and that to me, my friends, is unacceptable. I also find it appalling that when Bush took office, the cost of oil was at roughly $24.00... Now we have hit $107 (as of today)

Ok. I'll shut up now.
Fantastic HTT!

Carrie said...

Hey, I'm a newbie but I love checking out your HTT and I love politics, so I had to comment. I would say I'm an independent who definitely leans Democrat. It's in my genetic make-up, and yes, I know what Obama's record is and what he votes for - that's why I like him.

Emma said...

I've always been registered Republican, but I don't vote along party lines, and try to educate myself on who the candidates are and what the issues and policies are.
I have used government programs (while hubby was in school, knowing that I would be paying in back in taxes) and I am so glad we don't have to do that now. I agree, in most cases they aren't going to help people change how they live their lives. Too many people just live off the system, and never get anywhere, and think people owe them something, and don't want to work for it.
It's not just the moral issues that I lean toward the GOP side. I think individual responsibility is important, and that most programs would be best on a state level, or even smaller. I'm not too excited about McCain, but I don't see me siding with Clinton or Obama. I wish there was a better choice. But often in politics you have to go with the lesser of the evils! (That's slightly exaggerated but you get my drift right?)
Oh, and I love to host parties!!!It gives me a chance to really clean the house, I love to bake and serve food, and I don't mind the clean up at all! But I also love to attend parties too.

Anonymous said...

I can't believe two people who used the Government programs are knocking them. Am I missing something here? It is liking smoking pot for an illness, but believing it should be against the law. When it suits our needs it's ok but when other people use them it is not ok. I am not getting it, people. (just had to vent!)

steph said...

i'm kind of with anonymous... and i'm kind of with the people who knock the programs... except i'm 100% pro-programs.

here's the deal. our justice system is based on the idea that 100 guilty men should go free before 1 innocent man should be punsihed for a crime he didn't commit...

i think this should go the same for people who need help. many ppl who use govt programs have no intention of ever pulling their lives together, but i'd rather pay their way through life than deny that one person who wants to pull his life together but just needs a little help getting there...

so that's where i'm at. our country has problems with education, too, but i wouldn't just scrap educating children... our programs (and education) may not be in the best place, but it's a place to start.

i'm pro people. if i can help someone, why wouldn't i?

Carina said...

Democrat.

I live in Utah, too.

I love to throw or attend: I am an equal party person.

Ok, truly, I love to throw. Oh wait, and attend. I LOVE THEM BOTH!

Fig said...

Dem, for the most part, bummed that people think the programs don't work (that's a really stark statement, the fact is that they're working for someone every day), also confused that people are already throwing around the "lesser of two evils" line - which by the way I think some Mormon says EVERY election year - when I think there are strong, capable candidates.

Agreed that it's hard to get past those Mormon moral issues, though.

I don't like parties as a general rule. Too many people, too much noise, too much stress. Maybe I've only been to bad parties? I like to host 4 or 6 people for dinner and discussion.

Fig said...

P.S. I like what Steph said about being pro people - if we CAN help, why wouldn't we?

go boo boo said...

Independent (which drives my husband crazy!!!) I am kind of bummed there is no competition for the Dems this year, the primaries were so interesting. I like Obama, but I also really liked Bill C and I think Hillary is brilliant and a great politician (whether or not you like politicians, but seriously the Clintons are amazing politicians in every sense), and seriously I liked what Tina Fey brought up on SNL about having 2 intelligent experienced people in charge, sounds kind of cool.

I love to host a party. And not talk politics at it.

Heather said...

totally conservative. I agree with Sara, check out Obama's voting record and you just may be shocked (pro-partial birth abortion!!!). He has no plan to make anything happen. It all sounds good in theory but how will he pay for all of this, oh that's right raise my taxes. NO thanks. McCain makes me want to puke but I cannot vote for someone who has extremely different morals and values. We cannot solve the nations problems with more programs. Programs don't work. The government doesn't do anything well.

I love to host and go to parties. I am an equal opportunity partier.

enjoy your time in the sunshine.

Bartimaeus said...

I like how you can write so well about so little!

I might switch over to the D side of life it it wasn't for universal health care.

It the one issue I can actually defend (i.e. have a stance on) so bring it on!!!

Isabel said...

I'm not sure, but I think I'm a registered D. Although, I'll vote whatever party makes me happy. Which, typically is the Democrat party.