I thought for today, it would be appropriate to focus on the Republican side of this race for just a few minutes. You might be wondering if Evangelicals (you know, that super conservative, right wing, one issue type of voter) really makes up a significant portion of the voting block. While we saw Democrats come out in droves for the recently ended primaries, I would posit that last election it was unprecedented numbers of those who identify with that Evangelical sect that re-elected President George W. Bush. They are, to say it bluntly, a critical voting block in the Republican camp. The McCain campaign is well aware that to win, he has to have their support and so he has been quietly courting those key conservative leaders.
McCain Isn’t Conservative Enough
The problem of course, is that McCain isn’t conservative enough. While he is against fetal farming (creating embryos specifically for the purpose of research) under all circumstances, he is not against abortion. He would like to see Roe v. Wade overturned, but the issue for him is the fact that he is a strict constructionist. If states want to allow abortion–that’s hunky dory with John McCain. He also doesn’t oppose all embryonic stem cell research either.
The other “big issue” for evangelicals is gay marriage. He’s not opposed to it and does not support a ban on the U.S. Constitution to make marriage only between a man and a woman. Again, being a strict constructionist, he feels that the states should be responsible for laws regarding marriage.
Can Constructionism Find Ground with Evangelicals?
As Senator McCain seeks to court those in position within the Evangelical right, I think he needs to focus on his Constructionist outlook and specifically, he needs to spell out what that means to Joe Schmoe church goer.
What it means is that more governmental power is put back into the hands of the people where the laws have the most effect.
Should Evangelicals Vote for McCain?
I can’t answer that. What I can say confidently is that Evangelicals should not stay home just because they don’t like whose running. Our country is at a cross roads and this election is critical. If you feel like you have to vote for the lesser of two evils–well then fine. Vote for the lesser of two evils; whoever you feel that might be. But don’t let someone else decide for you who will be in office.
Valorie Delp shares recipes and kitchen tips in the food blog, and also writes about politics and the occassional movie review. To read more articles by Valorie Delp, click here.
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