What will you base your vote on?
 

After reading some of the other threads about this election year, I am curious as to what people generally base their vote on.
Do you have core items that you always vote on, or do they vary from election to election?

What are the top three issues on which you will be basing your vote in the 2008 Presidential Election?

For me, they are:
1. Education
2. Economy / Domestic Agenda
3. Social Issues (ie - equal rights, abortion, stem cells, etc.)

My objectives change from election to election, and thus, my choice of candidates changes. Back in 2000, I was on the McCain bandwagon. I love his no nonsense approach to the government, and even though I don't agree with him on a few issues, I deeply respect him. When Bush won the Republican nomination, I chose Gore. I didn't really like Gore in the beginning, but I figured he was better than Bush, and he did mirror a great number of my beliefs. In 2004, I supported Clark initially, but then moved to support Kerry when it was clear he would be the Democratic nominee. I HATE Bush policies.

This year, my big issues are 1) the Iraq war. It's personal for me. My husband has had to leave 3 times already and I hate it. I've also lost a really good friend. 2) the economy and domestic policies-- AMEND NAFTA. 3) social issues (abortion, gay marriage, etc), but not nearly to the degree of the other two.

Personality of the candidate plays a part in my preference, only to the degree that I can read that someone is trustworthy, genuine, and has leadership qualities that I admire.

Economy

Immigration

the Iraq War


and yes, they vary from year to year depending on how things look but this year is key.....

1. Education...I am not pleased with NCLB or my pay!
2. The economy...WTF?
3. The war in Iraq...We are a military family and 3 family members have already been!

Marriage equality and DC statehood

1. Sensible economic policies
2. Recognizing individual rights and liberties
3. Willingness to avoid a nanny state
4. Equality for ALL, not just white Christians

Unfortunately, this probably means going with whichever weak candidate the Republicans nominate.

Only if you promise to sew in an extra star in everybody's flag. :p

LOL..... hey, I'd waive the privilege of having a star if we could get statehood!

1. Social Issues (equal health care, women's right to choose, stem cell research, same-sex marriage, domestic partner rights)
2. Iraqi War
3. Economy
4. Affordable Higher Education and better schools
5. Repeal all conceale weapon legislation



ETA....added number 5 because I hate guns

Height

Education
War in Iraq
Taxes
Economy

I like the way you put this. This would be my list too.

I prefer shoe size. I think it's a more accurate measure.

1. Their Interpretation of The Second Amendment...