Being an educated voter

The Tribune-Democrat

July 17, 2008 02:39 pm

— Just as we at The Tribune-Democrat work hard to inform our readers about the candidates and issues of a political campaign, we continue to urge you to educate yourselves.
One way is through free information provided by the organization Project Vote Smart, which periodically touches base with us concerning our legislators and their willingness to provide voters with their issue positions.
“The 100-page ‘Voter’s Self-Defense Manual’ is the first, best step to smart voting,” said Adelaide Elm, a Vote Smart board member, in a press release accompanying an issue of the latest book.
“... it enables each voter to strip away the campaign hype, spin and negative attacks to expose what the candidates may do for us – or to us – if elected.”
The latest guide covers U.S. Senate and House members. Candidates for president are covered on the group’s Web site and on a toll-free Voter’s Research Hotline.
Project Vote Smart volunteers have gathered information on voting records, backgrounds, issue positions, finances including campaign contributions, evaluations and public statements. The data have been obtained from incumbents and hopefuls for offices from the president down to city and county officials.
There are many ways to become an educated voter. Don’t let someone else tell you how to vote. Don’t be in the dark when you walk into the polls on Nov. 4.