Our last forum was for students at the university. We had forums in small towns, two in the city, at a Christian college, and a call-in radio session (not a one in Benewah County). Forums are not really debates; there is little back and forth, (even this time) and most of the folks in the audience have made up their minds before coming, so little persuasion occurs, maybe some. There is usually a minute or two to introduce yourself, then a question is posed with a one minute response limit. Most candidates sound the same when they are talking political-speak, so we get to know their canned responses. But I really enjoy them. I think they are a good time to get to know ones opponent, as well as the other candidates for office. I will admit, I have changed my mind on some votes after hearing candidates talk. Maybe I’m jaded.
After the closing remarks at the student forum, the many thanks and applause, I got up to retrieve my unclaimed literature on the back table, but a young man came up to me with a purpose. He introduced himself politely and said “I’m a senator too, for the student body.”
“Congratulations,” I offered. “Do you guys get name tags too?” I teased him, showing mine.
“Uh, yeah. But mine looks better than that one.” He laughed. Then he tilted his head to the side and asked, “Can I ask you a question?” as he walked out of earshot of the others chatting. I followed him over.
“Sure, ask.”
“So, I’m a Republican…” he began slowly.
I smiled. “How do you know?” He looked at me quizzically. I continued, “I thought your generation didn’t buy the party affiliation thing, so I’m trying to understand how you know you are a Republican.”
He smiled and laughed a bit. “I just do.”
I pondered. “So it’s kind of like being gay then?” He frowned. “I’m not saying you’re gay. But that’s the answer I get from gay folks when I ask them how they know they are gay. They say they “just know” like you said you know you are Republican; like you were born Republican.” He laughs and shakes his head; I don’t think he blushed. “So what’s your question?”
“OK,” he continues, “So I’m a Republican and I need you to tell me why I should vote for you.”
“That’s easy.” I say “Because I’m the best candidate. I’ve taken courageous stands, I’ve shown vision, I see the problems our state faces and I work hard to address them. I can give you a long list of examples, from fighting government mishandling of the taxpayers money to showing stupid policies we hold onto. Do you need specific examples?” He slightly shook his head, but he was frowning. “So can I count on your vote?”
“I’ll think about it…” he demurred and walked away. He couldn’t leave the herd either.