Responses to October 2008 column

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I emailed an expanded version of my October column to people in my address book. Below are quotes from those who responded to my column or my email. I edited out information that would identify anyone and made some spelling corrections. Other than that they are their own comments. Because of the religious aspect of this election I identified the religion of respondents when I knew it. There is a summary at the end. This is not intended to be scientific at all. Updated November 4, 2008

Male reader

9:41 AM This is about as soon as the paper was in his home!

He sent this to Jack Telfer, Editor of Midland Daily News also.

When did you decide to become "The New York Times", one of the most left leaning newspapers in the country? After reading your pieces this morning in the MDN, I'm astonished/ashamed that the MDN has endorsed Obama for President of the USA!! Every word in each column for McCain is negative and EVERY word for Obama is positive and one of you actually believes that giving an open door to the White House to people like William Ayres, Rev. Wright, Tony Resco (convicted fellon) and the list could go on. If it were anyone else other than Obama, they couldn't get a security pass to enter but it's ok for Obama because people like him? You two aught to be ashamed.

Rather than hiding it in the editorial section, how about if you make it a headline tomorrow and see what that does to your circulation! I know what I'm doing with mine!

He added in another email:

And do you really believe turning our entire government over to one party who will make all decisions that face our nation today, with no checks and balances is the best thing for us as citizens?

Jack Telfer replied:

I wrote [him] back and informed him that your column represents your opinion, not the Daily News' opinion, and that my column was not an endorsement, but an observation of a factor that might be important this election.

Woman reader

10:20 AM shortly after the first one!

I loved your article this morning. You said everything that I have been thinking about the candidates, and this election.

The rest are in response to my expanded column that I emailed to them.

Woman

Hi Norbert,

I was going to email you this afternoon. I thought the column was terrific-to the point, well-researched, and calmly laying out the facts. My mom sent me to the NYTimes today, and if you type in Cindy McCain, you can read their article on her, which I guess Republicans are furious about. My mom in Ohio heard that they will next bring up Obama's youthful drug use...I can hear it now: McCain: "I could care less about Senator Obama's experiments with drugs, but he needs to be honest with the American people." Wonder if that's the "pro-American" people or the rest of us? Truly, are there that many people still undecided? McCain sounds more than desperate now-he's nearly hysterical.

I am so upset at the tone this has all taken, and will be relieved when the voting ends. This has been long and hard, especially with the contentious Democratic primary season dragging on, and now McCain and his shot of the day attitude.

od work!!!

Man

Thank you for your e-mail.

I indeed have read your column in the paper this morning after coming back from church.

u present a well reasoned expose as to the choices we face on Nov. 4. As many you are leaning toward Obama, who, also in my opinion, has the better personality and plans to be president in these turbulent times. Unfortunately the forces at play are much more powerful than what the president -- and Congress -- can successfully master; so that we shall have coming an economical Tsunami for which we still but poorly prepared.

….

The cause of what we are witnessing is a basic flaw in the idea of a self-correcting free market capitalism. It just cannot accommodate human nature -- forever tending to excesses and extremes -- and has recently developed mechanisms that act so fast and in such tremendous magnitudes that human decisions must always come too late to have a remedial effect.

At present the government in the US is indebted to such a degree that without a total abandonment of the "system" -- and the elimination of all traces of it,--- human civilization cannot endure. I only hope that the "change" over can be accomplished -- for the first time in history -- without a global war of all against all..

May the Lord guide us and our leaders so we do not destroy the ship of state on the rocks of the rapids ahead.

At the base of it all is a total confusion of language and concepts. I recommend Gen. 11:3-9 for meditation.

Woman

I'm voting for John McCain and Sarah Palin primarily because I am pro-life. Thanks for the article!

Woman

Norb, I read you column today and I loved it. You speak the truth. In this Republican Community I will be interested to hear how people respond to the article.

Male (former Catholic)

Well, I agree completely with you. Not mentioned is the increasing loss of personal freedom due to intrusive police action , and the repeated proposals of this administration for a national identity card for all persons.

An issue in our area [Washington state] involves the use of what in the past was called the Border Patrol to operate moving and intermittent road check points. We are a border state and many people go across the border both ways to shop, recreate, and visit family and friends. We go across the border a lot in our family, usually making at least 10 border crossings each year. The Border Patrol, has taken the position that all of the State of Washington is in their sphere of influence, because of the "porous" nature of the border here. I guess that means that all of our coastline is a potential crossing point for people with evil intent.

As a result the Border patrol is stepping up road side check points in the interior part of the state and miles away from the border. They are focused in some areas on rich agricultural areas, no doubt because many Mexicans work on our farms. They stop all vehicles and ask if you are a citizen and where you live. Under law citizens are not required to answer questions, but the vehicle driver must show a drivers license, registration of the vehicle, and proof of insurance if requested. Those who chose to not answer questions are subject to detention for what the courts have described as a "reasonable period of time." Detention of American citizens by this police agency is not deemed an arrest, but a detention. (Looks like arrest to me when you don't have freedom of choice about your movements, and you are forced into a cell.) So far the Border Patrol has made about 90 detentions this year, nabbing illegal aliens (not all Mexicans), and people with some small amounts of pot.

It is my position that no police agency has the right to stop citizens without probable cause. And, no police agency has the right to require any citizen to answer any questions, and no police agency has the right to arrest or detain any citizen traveling in the interior part of a state without probable cause. I view these detentions as illegal arrests.

The Border Patrol is not doing its job on our land and water borders. Stopping folks at other points is an outrage and an abuse of power. Unfortunately, the policy which is being applied is also discriminatory since they are clearly targeting Mexicans by the concentrating check points in agricultural areas.

In response to inquires by the ACLU and the press, the Border Patrol says this is done in the name of national security and to protect us from terrorists. Another example of using fear to subjugate the population.

How would you feel, if you were traveling through your town on the way to the grocery store, and you were stopped by a police agency, questioned, and intimidated? That's what is happening here. Michigan is also a border state and has lots of shoreline which I guess must be as porous as the Washsington border. What would you think of beng stopped on a city street in, say Alpena, on the way to the grocery store by these thugs?

Lutheran Woman

Norbert,

You wrote a very interesting article but I can't in good conscious vote for Obama. I don't know who he is or what he really stands for. I don't believe he is telling the people the whole truth.

I'm following my Christian ethics and voting for McCain. Actually, I don't believe either one is the person we need in the White House but there are no other choices that would be able to score a big win.

It does sound like Obama will get it and God help us. Of course, America has turned its back on God so why should He help.

I included a youtube video for you to watch, if interested.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA6_k3NtXZs

Man Catholic

Norbert – we have already voted. Both of us voted for Obama and are feeling better about it every day. Colin Powell endorsed Obama this morning.

I have never got involved in politics, but this year I also feel that it is very important to vote for the right person and that is Obama.

Woman

Hi Norb!

I did read your column in the MDN and it was excellent. Thank you for the expanded version.

Man

Dear Norbert,

I really like your October column. Since Midland is somewhat of a Republican island, you may get some nasty responses.

During the last debate, McCain had one response that the Republicans really liked. That was when he told Obama that if he did not care for the Bush politics, he should have run in 2000. My comeback would have been: "We did have a pretty good candidate running against Bush in 2000. His name was John McCain but I don't know what happened to him.

Out of state man becoming Catholic

Hi Norb,

I loved your article....you and I are in accord on the war, economy, energy policy, vice-presidential nominees and foreign policy. I am a strong Obama supporter.

Catholic woman

Hi Norbert,

I think you've said it all very well and I wholeheartedly agree with your points. I will read again more carefully and let you know if I have any more to add. Thank you. I'm glad you sent it as I haven't read the Midland Daily News yet and I only buy the Sunday paper. Best wishes and I hope Obama wins for all of us.

Woman

I read your article in the paper today. Very good!

Man

Hey Norbert!

I’ve been reading your last few emails with growing appreciation of the direction you’ve taken since “retiring”. There are times when Iʼm sorely tempted to just sit back and let these fingers fly also, but there are too many other tasks that take precedence still. One day though, Iʼll hang up my hat and get into it, though probably not as publicly nor as politically as you.

So I must comment on this last posting, a copy of a published piece you said, with footnotes. Having read quite a bit of your site, I must agree with your attitude that war is unhealthy and unnecessary. There are truly better ways to resolve conflicts. Then this article takes a side in our greatest election contest, and I must agree with your conclusions. Not only have you presented a most convincing set of arguments, you treated the most sensitive topic, that of abortion & right-to-life, both carefully and persuasively. Kudos and hearty congratulations on some fine writing!

The hope is, of course, that weʼre supporting the winning side. If not I fear more trying times ahead. And with a son headed for the conflict (our eldest is in the Army now, as an explosive recruit) itʼs all the more important the current conflict cools off.

….

Hope you and yours are all fine, and keep up the great writing!

Woman

Thanks for sending me your article. It is very well written and summarizes my thoughts exactly. I will pass it along to some of my friends. I have supported Obama since he began his run for the Presidency. He and Biden offer our best hope to get out of the mess the Republicans and Bush administration have created for the country in the last 8 years.

Former Michigan woman

Thanks Norb. I agree with your perspective on the campaign 100%. I enjoy reading your articles. Please keep me on your mailing list!

Catholic couple

Hi Norb,

We read your column and shouted a big YES. Thank you for writing it for all of us.

Man atheist

Norbert:

You're preaching to the choir, and I'm even an atheist!

Catholic man

Thanks, by now it should be clear to every thinking

person. The election is over. Obama wins. It's so easy.

Woman

Norbert,

I did read your column this morning. Your opinions fall almost perfectly in line with mine. You wrote a concise summary of the issues surrounding this election. I particularly appreciate your input as a Catholic on the issues of abortion and religion. Abortion, as you explained is not a black and white issue. I agree with you and Sen. Obama that we should take steps to decrease the number of abortions rather than making it a legal issue. On religion, we need to respect people of all religions, while denouncing criminal actions taken by extremists. Your comments were right on and I am glad to have you for a spokesperson for progressive values.

Thank you!

Catholic man

Well written. Our sign is proudly in the front flower bed.

Catholic man

Norbert -

I read your column and agree with your choice of candidates. There is an Obama sign in my front yard.

I fear that many Catholics … are going to vote for McCain solely on his anti abortion position. It's truly sad when one votes for a candidate based on one issue. McCain is more anti-life because of his stance on many other issues. I believe it's a "disease" that our church has created in American voters: vote your conscience but...

Catholic man

Norbert,

We have had our differences before, but I consider [your column] a master piece. I'm well aware I will be getting uncomfortable emails from my friends, but hell, the truth is the truth. I took the liberty to forward this to many of my [former] Shipmates …, along with many friends I have been associating with here in Midland. I'm sure you will be getting many rebuttals but stand fast friend, God is with you. It took America 200 years to build a good solid relationship in the Arab World and the Fundamentalists one year to destroy it.

Catholic woman

I read your notes on the article (from your latest email) and really liked your comments on “right to life.”

I do tend to lean towards the democratic platform, but wish there was a 3rd party that was truly “pro-life” on all life issues. Neither party offers a platform that I find morally appealing regarding life issues. I would hate to see partial birth abortion ban act passed in 2003, overturned because Obama is pro-choice, and willing to fight for this option. There is a tendency for strong supporters of both parties to explain away, justify, or even downplay the importance of their position on “uncomfortable issues” like abortion. Of course, in the midst of pro-lifers, McCain will emphasize his pro-life stance, and Obama will rally to the cause with pro-choice supporters. It’s all about the votes – and not really much about the issue. You’d think after 8 years in office, the republican party could have done more than just ban partial birth abortions! The reason they probably didn’t is because they didn’t want to tip the balance too much – and lose the swing voters or frustrated voters like me.

Most of the avid pro-lifers I know don’t see it that way, though. To them, it’s a black and white issue – vote republican, or don’t vote at all. They are kind of like animal rights activists, they almost become obsessed with the issue, to the point that they can’t see the value of anything else. The same is true with avid pro-choicers – they are democrats or nothing. Maybe the day we have a truly pro-life party will be the beginning of a new era for the world. That’s what I’m praying for!

Methodist woman

Great article, Norb. I have been very surprised to learn this year that the

Catholic church puts such pressure on its members. Several of my Catholic

friends have said to me, "I *really* don't like McCain or Palin, and I

really want to vote for Obama/Biden, but my church tells me that I can't."

They truly feel in crisis about this decision, because they fear what will

happen to them if they vote for Obama. It's very scary to me to hear that

people I consider intelligent and educated are willing to give up their

right to think for themselves.

Catholic man

Norb,

Something happened to the email you sent as there was a lot of over-typing which made most of the text unreadable. But I certainly understood what your message is. No doubt there are many issues in our election but I see the lack of respect for life the most important.

In my … years I have come to appreciate one thing and that is God has provided us with free will to either choose between His ways or the devil's ways. For those who do not think there is a "devil" then they can believe anything they want and be comfortable. I believe in both the devil and the Holy Spirit and I see the catholic church as my help to form my conscience consistent with behavior that pleases God. I still have my free will and I still need to make my own decisions. Looking back in history it seems humans keep making the same mistakes over and over. Thank God He is willing to forgive us and let us continue on our way.

My "life experience" has been to TRY to make choices in how I conduct my life that conform to my catholic religion no matter how unpopular it has been with the people around me. As time goes on I do not regret on the choices I've made even though many people considered me rather stupid. No matter, I make my decisions and I live with them.

I've been blessed in many ways and feel that God is truly taking care of me. Not that I haven't been faced with very tough issues but I have always been given the strength to get through it. Soo that said, I want you to know that I feel human life is a blessing given by God and only He is the one to decide when it should end….

Back to "free will". I feel God wants us to love him just because he loves us. We show that love by doing out best to follow those guidelines he has given us through Jesus Christ His son.

As a parent I want my kids to love me because they want to. I don't want them "loving" me because of the money I leave behind when I die or because I demand they love me. Considering we are made in the image of God that must be the same feeling God has for all of us.

Norb, I hope this note helps you understand why "respect for life" is important to me.

May God continue to bless us.

Man

Norb! I read the rant and have looked at the references you provided in this email!

All I have to say is you are definately at the top of the list of biased Democrats!

With a little effort you can dredge up the same biased rant and references for Obama bin Lyun and Joe "Great Depression Specialist" Biden!

I saw a video the other day that had all the denial experts on the Democrat side of the Isle attesting to Saddam Hussein having weapons of mass destruction and that he was trying to expand his search for and production of nuclear weapons! Where have you been, asleep or blinded by your hatred for Republicans and George Bush?

Your research should have included the fact that the Clinton administration, in 1999, rewrote the credit requirements for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae!

You forgot to mention also, that Charlie Schummer, Chris Dodd, Barny Frank, all Democrats and Henry Paulson, a real Rocket Scientist, are neck deep in missing the boat on this economic crash, that you all want to blame George Bush for!

In case you forgot or wern't aware of the fact that Lyndon Johnson initiated the Great Society Program that started all the deficit spending we are so blessed with! I'm considerably older than you and have a decent memory!

I can give you history lesson with out quoting all the references you seem to dote on, from my actual experiences in watching the decline of the veracity of the Democrat Party I used to be a part of those deluded faithful, until I woke up and started thinking for myself and quit parroting the party line of the DNC!

I will say that you certainly have 20-20 hindsight!

Man former Catholic

Nice column, Norb.

My view is that Obama is the lesser of two evils. I don't believe anybody can reach the level of presidential nominee without selling their soul. It is the nature of the system. Not ours in particular (although much about ours exacerbates the problem); rather, any government of a nation-state. Many call me cynical. I believe I am realistic. I've spent my life thinking about it.

Catholic woman

Dear Norb

I am so glad to see someone at last take a balanced view on the abortion issue—I am so disgusted by friends who vote on the basis of that one issue—it is blown all out of proportions—certainly it is an evil and not to be easily done but when one considers the overall picture of the nation-----

Baptist man

Thank you, Norbert. I did (and almost always do) read your article. I find

that we are on the same page most every time. You are an excellent writer

and truly have your finger on the pulse of the major issues in our day.

Congratulations to you for sharing your thoughts in this public venue. I

know you must take a lot of grief from this more conservative sector in our

region. I admire you.

Catholic man

Yes, I did read it yesterday. Thanks for asking.

Catholic woman

Norb, I sure did read your column in the Midland Daily and I was impressed with your comments and the way that you defended them. It was definately one of the best articles on this election loaded with facts ( not just explosive rhetoric) and the sources of your facts with excellent commentary by you. You have given me hope that not all I hear in this election is the work of idiots! Norbert the writer reigns; Joe the plumber needs a license! Keep up your good work!

Woman

Hi Norb,

I read your column in the MDN yesterday and appreciated your insights. As usual, you did an excellent job in presenting your viewpoint.

Personally, I am extremely excited over having the choice of electing the first African-American President. Just having the first African- American nominee for president is in itself an amazing thing and I have to agree with Colin Powell that he is a “transformational figure”.

Lutheran man

Norbert

Thank you for sending me a copy of your extensive writings. I pray that you will forgive me for not responding to such an extensive group of writings in a short period of time.

I will say that there is room for quite a bit of discussion in the future. It should not surprise you that even my cursory review of the writings you reference are indeed troubling.

As a writer and a grammarian, I hope you read that last sentence in exacting terms. Meaning, of the topics you expound upon, the nature and bent are troubling to me because; 1) in some topics we are in agreement and the challenge noted is indeed troubling, 2) other topics mentioned are troubling because we do not agree regarding the basis of the stated apologetic methodology utilized, and therefore it follows that we will most certainly disagree in the resulting stated conclusions.

One thing I will note with certainty, it is obvious that you do indeed have a passion for politics and a great sense of urgency about those passions. I thank you for your input.

Woman

Dear Norbert,

I too am very passionate about this election. I appreciate all the thought and research you put into your summary. You are to be commended for your patriotic endeavor.

I strongly agree with the information you provided and have already voted Obama/Biden via absentee ballot.

Keep up the great work that you do, on this issue and all the others you have tackled.

Catholic man

Thanks. I’m sending your comments to some of my friends—across the nation.

You are totally on target.

Catholic woman

Norb, I did read your article in the MDN. Let me preface my comments by saying that I consider myself a moderate Democrat.I find more of the Democratic ideas in keeping with my Catholic faith as I see it but I don't agree with all the Democrats want to do or allow. I also don't read a lot of commentaries or watch much TV so you may say that I haven't done my homework and that is probably true. So here goes.

I think you write well and the articles I like best are when you pose questions but leave some room for people to think about their own answers. In the latest article you do write with conviction but I sometimes want to say "now wait a minute Norb" at some of your statements For instance, I never read exactly what happened at the Sarah Palin rally but I can't believe that she 'incited her audience to hatred' - my guess is that people like the one in the crowd came to the rally with that hatred ( I read someplace that she didn't even hear it said and even if she did perhaps at a moment like that she didn't know how to react - perhaps part of being ill-prepared for the job? ).I don't believe you can say it was her 'unconscionable speech.' Joe Biden has talked a lot about McCain being one with Bush when we all remember the negative things McCain has said about Bush in the past. I believe that a McCain presidency would not be 4 more years of the same. and that McCain who has a record of working with Republicans over the years would facilitate more 'across the aisle' legislating. In fact I am somewhat concerned that if the Democrats really win big they won't try to consider Republican views in the many issues ahead and we will have more and more animosity. My biggest concern with Palin is that she seems too much like Chaney and if she had to serve as president she would be much more conservative. The last thing I want to say is that you make very broad statements about fundamentalism - also in your book. Characterizing Palin with Pentecostals is kinda like associating Obama with Rev. Wright.

So keep writing what you want and I'll keep saying "Now wait a minute Norb" from time to time.As an aside, we just mailed in our absentee ballots today and I did vote for Obama.

My reply to her:

Thanks for your thoughtful comments. Yes perhaps I did go a little far outon Palin’s speaking but even after that incident she continued to talk about Obama’s association with Ayers, the terrorist. I grant that she mae not have heard it in that one speech.

As for fundamentalism, I may not have expressed myself as carefully as I could have but I do believe there is a real danger in Christian fundamentalism.

I too have concern about both the President and Congress being Democrat. I read someone say that he was going to vote for McCain for that reason since it is pretty clear Congress will be Democratic.

I thank you very much for your thoughts because I truly respect you and what you think. You are a good model for me to think twice before sending something out.

Man

Please remove us from your email list for political inspired information.

Well written information. I wish you the best in all your endeavors.

Catholic woman

Norb,

Regardless on how I feel about the candidates, I really dislike articles that bash one candidate with countless “proof” of their abilities and associations and then give no specifics on how their candidate plans to realistically make it all better. This is true for both sides of the fence. Both sides cannot possibly do all the things they promise for a variety of reasons.

One can always find articles supporting their opinions. It’s just like seeking medical opinions from doctors until you find the one that says what you want to hear. I do like to keep myself informed by listening to media that is slanted on both sides, like CNN and FOX.

I do give you kudos for not being afraid to speak your mind and that is very honorable. I’m not that way, and this response to you is going quite “out there” for me.

Thanks Norb for your contributions to our community with your insights and discussions!

Your friend,

Man

Take me off your email list.

Catholic woman

Read the column Sunday ... excellent as always. went to the discussion last Fri. PM at library. full of educators and it was good. at your discussion I learned, much to my amazement and embarrassment, the difference between deficits and a balanced budget. thank you. I had thought Clinton had wiped out the debt. he simply had balanced the budget and yes, created surpluses. this was something very important for me to learn. I did not know that I did not know it. enough.

Catholic woman

Thank you Norbert, my husband and I are still unsure what we are going to do. We will read through this.

Jewish man

This man asked me 11 questions, but I chose to put only his conclusion here.

Dear Norbert,

….

Honestly, I am not terribly afraid of Obama's economic policies. Of course, they will be a disaster, but this country

survived even the FDR's socialism. Also, the prospective Obama's foreign policy is not what scares me most -

this country can survive even that. But what really scares me is the possibility that, if Obama is elected, we simply

will not have another real elections in four years. The "truth squads" and all the ideas about enforcing "fairness"

in information will kill the free speech. I am sure furher campaign finance laws will contribute to the same cause.

The propaganda in schools will proceed unabated. Obama is already advertising himself even in video games.

The election fraud now may become legalized one way or another, permitting the "right" people vote as many

time as they want - and with no ID (as it already happens now in many places). Have you ever thought about

why all the voter fraud is done in favor of Obama and not McCain? I believe the reason is two-fold. First,

these people believe that their goal justifies any means. Second, they know that they cannot win honestly. They

know that they are acting against the majority of the American people. In any case, we can very soon

be living in a USSR-like society. I don't know if you will like it or not, but I certainly do not want to have

this experience again. This is why I am writing to you now, even though I suspect that you will not agree with me

at all. But there is not much I can do except talking/writing to people, and I do not want to blame myself

for doing nothing at all while I still could.

My reply:

Your last concern has me baffled. We still live in a constitutional republic with checks and balances among the three branches of government. We are not electing a dictator who can do all those nefarious things you mentioned. As for vote fraud I mentioned that above. I know you are convinced but I believed (also without proof) that George W. Bush won both elections by voter fraud, the first one in Florida and the second one in Ohio. The evidence is pretty strong butnot conclusive. My point is that voter fraud has occurred on both sides. While the allegations are against Obama in this campaign, they are still allegations. He has a tremendous grass roots effort at registrations and that will bringout more voters. That will be a good thing for the country. Technically the improper registration forms do not constitute voter fraud. As for elimination of free speech, your friend George Bush has started that pretty well with the Patriot Act. So maybe it depends on whose free speech you are referring to.

I know you bring a unique historical perspective … but I find your last comments and conclusions a big stretch.

Man atheist

Hi Norb-

Yes, I saw it and read it with great interest. It's a good column, and I don't see any area where I have any significant feedback or corrections.

I was a little surprised that science and education weren't mentioned in your column (since that is such a clear point of advantage for Obama for me), but that's fine, because I too am submitting some writing.

Jewish woman

Good to hear from you. I have to give you credit for writing this

column. I fully agree with you and am working at the Democratic

office … and am keeping my fingers crossed. Glad you are speaking out.

Catholic man

Norb,

I liked the article very much. Thanks so much. One point I want to make that I have always found interesting is that under Bill Clinton the number of abortions actually declined and under george Bush they increased, because of the democrats concern for the whole person. I must say I am Pro-Life, but I find that interesting, because if Abortion is the one issue people vote on, they may be better served by voting Democrat. Just some food for thought. Thanks again for the article.

Catholic man

Thank you very much Norb for forwarding your unbiased article. ha ha, that was a joke!

….

First of all, your title suggests that you will make a balanced comparison of what each candidate is offering to our country. In fact you begin saying that both candidates support change in our country. But immediately you canonize one and demonize the other. I would have expected something more solid and balanced….

When you talk about faithful citizenship you say that there is nothing that prevents you from voting for a particular candidate. If I am correct, the title of the Bishop's document is "forming consciences" and not "easing consciences." It seems to me that by saying: "there is nothing that prevents me" you are in a defense mode .

I think we have to be honest and see the bigger picture, if we compare the issues that affect our beliefs as Catholics, I think both candidates support problematic positions that would prevent us from voting for either of them (eg. Israel policies, the war, abortion and of course, the economy ... each at their own level). Therefore, saying "nothing prevents me" is an absolute.

It is a fact that because of people's vote someone will die (either in Iraq , or in an abortion clinic; either in a embryo lab, or because of lack of health insurance) that is reason enough to be prevented from voting for either candidate….

It seems that your article suggests that finally we found the perfect man on earth . So far, I thought the only one was Jesus Christ ( human and divine ) .

Woman

Hi Norbert

I read your column and since you ask for a feedback which we all have the right to express our own options I will go ahead and do that. Nothing against you or any one else we all have are own choice to vote OK?

I myself am a born again Christian (Pentecostal) . Sarah Palin is also. And she is basing her words and life on Jesus for protecting this world.

But as I see it, this world is coming close to the return of Jesus and NO president is going to be able to change it for what is about to happen.

Yes I do have to vote because the word of God tells me to. I don't like either Obama or McCain they both are liars. But I and my family and church family is leaving this voting in Gods hands. And from now on ONLY GOD IS IN CONTROL OF THIS NATION. But my vote is for McCain only based on what the bible tells us to vote on is abortion and gay marriages and Obama is for both of them and McCain is against them. As for taxes and health insurance they both are going in the wrong direction that and that's where its hard to decide. And as for wars, that is never going to end Armageddon is coming soon. And I will fight for all JEWS AND THERE NATION ISRAEL.

As in faith (which I stand) I am not sure about McCain if he has any faith at all . Obamas father is a muslim, mother is a atheist, his church who says they are Christians are against whites and Jews. He says he never new about this- come on We are am not stupid. So who do we want for president now\

I WANT JESUS!!!!!!!!! thank you for letting us speak our option and you have a blessed day.

Catholic man

Norb,

…. I read the heading for your column and expected something different that what I read. I know you are very thorough in your research and can't argue with what you said, but the heading did sound like it would be a more objective look at both candidates. It was really an explanation of why you support Senator Obama. I have no problem with that, you have every right to do that. But the headline gave the indication of a different article.

… I think both candidates give us pause. There are issues I have with both in the realm of life. I don't know if we will ever have a candidate who fully supports all that the Catholic Church teaches about life. I find myself in the position of saying I favor candidates though I do have problems with some of their positions. Knowing you I think you feel the same way. I didn't feel that came out in the column.

One disappointment I had in both candidates in the debates is that they rarely answered the question asked. I especially felt this was the case when asked about what of their plans would have to be put on hold if the economy didn't allow full implementation. Neither one answered that. That too causes me some concern. Given the economy, I wonder how much of their plans will be possible at least for the first couple of years.

I don't like Church officials telling people how to vote. I agree that there are some who do just that. I think we need to be careful that in going the opposite direction we don't do the very same thing.

Thanks for your comments and the chance to respond.

Catholic woman

Hi Norb:

I read most of it … but some of the article I couldn't read … I do thank you & what I did read I agree with you whole heartedly! Enough is enough - I never did vote for Bush & been democrat almost all the way. Your article is interesting & I'm of course voting for Obama. I hope his grandma won't interfere with this election to some people.

Thanks again for thinking of me to send me the article.

Government employee

Hello Norbert -

Thanks for the note. You expressed your feelings very well!

It should be an interesting election. Being a government employee, I of

course, have no opinion to offer you ;-)

Man

Norbert:

... in response to your column .

War and Foreign Policy

I have 4 relatives in the military that have been/are in Iraq, one who has been wounded
twice. They know that they are needed and see progress in what is being done. The
media does not cover this area now that positive results are taking place. This is not a
quick fix ---but they are seeing capitalism/freedom working.

Did you know that WMDs that were in Iraq was transported to Syria.

Neither 018 or Biden are veterans, their understanding of military policy is what
someone else tells them--- they do not understand, nor do they ask: the right questions and
as a result can not determine how they should be structuring a MidEast strategy.
Terrorists know all of this and that is why terrorists are supportive of democrats winning the election.

As you have seen this week, Biden (for the first time) has actually told the truth about a
terrorist challenge if Obama becomes President.

Even Putin is gutsy enough to invade Georgia---and is still there-he believes our polls
are accurate and is more than happy to respond to the 'thug' in Venezuela and send over
planes/ships for a 'demonstration'.

Terrorists know that with the millions of dollars available in democratic campaign funds,
that American people will go for the 'change' approach. The first priority of the President
is to protect our country. Listening to Barney Frank who wants to reduce defense
spending by 35 % will get the terrorist attention, and demonstrating a weakness move
will generate a strategy of attack on our Country.

The UN is no longer of value, except for countries to apply for money. The latest
demonstration of this is the Russian invasion and they will leave when they feel like it.
The bluff has been called, and there were no deadlines issued, so now the Russians will

becme more aggressive. Nothing was heard front the democratic party spokesman->
they hope this will go away and be forgotten ..... again no backbone!

Economics

Deregulation is not the problem----regulation is the problem-look at the recent housing
fiasco. Frank and Dodd were supposed to be overseeing when they didn't even screen
out the purchaser with no funds---while they were feathering their own.nests with
preferential loans.

Both should be fired from the oversight committee and step down from their
representative and senatorial positions---they represent the worst of elected. officials.

O/B has no idea of how to run a small business-and yet they want to tax the small
business for being successful.

Did you know that when the minimum wage was increased, the Arnold Center here in
Midland had to discontinue opening the coffee shop in the library on Saturday and
Sunday. This was a training program which was affordable to people that gave them a
stair step to qualify for a better opportunity. One of the employees advised me that he
had his hours cut, to make room for the person who was working the weekend. The net is

this two people once were working 40 hours, now two people are sharing these

hours, and are making a lesser dollar total than before ............................................................ this is progress?

That's what our democrats seem to specialize in, finding ways to screw up a needed
program. Perhaps their 'spreading the wealth' program (now called constricting the
wealth) was at work right here in Midland.

If you haven't owned a small business, you wouldn't know this.

Midland has improved in attracting small business to this area --and you can thank the
President ofDow Chemical for generating this kind of atmosphere.

Energy is needed now and clean burning coal is the immediate answer. I was working
with a retired chemical engineer this week, who is 81 years old, and he supports coal
power to round out our current program.

Wind power is increasing, but not fast enough and it needs a supplement----something to
fill in when the wind stops. Those that fight against coal have been brainwashed and are
void of logic. A nuclear plant is the answer, but thanks to opponents we have been
delayed on getting this done-i.e. jobs have been lost in Michigan as a result.

A new aircraft carrier has just been finished and is now operating under nuclear power
that will last 40 years. No diesel fuel needed. We need to have that power here in
Midland to get greater efficiency in our manufacturing business.

Vice President- choice.

Sarah is outstanding---experience? Raising 5 kids and governing a State heavy in
industry---returning money to the voters! She has done more in those years than any of
her counter parts---we should be so lucky to have someone here like her. OB has no
experience of getting ajob that qualifies him to be a Senator. No House experience, and
even less when it comes to working for private business. What has he done that he had to
make a profit to keep his job? He has no idea on what it takes to take a business from 0
and making a living from it!

Your comment of Sarah sounds like sour grapes.

Campaign Practices. I don't think McCain has been tough enough to point out the
Obama's immaturity and past associations with people that want to undermine our way of
life. OIB has allowed himself to be influenced by Acorn, weathermen, selfish ministers,

a wife's salary going from lOOk to $300 at the University of Chicago-with a hate
America background?