Notebook: What do you want?

EDITORIAL MUG: Larry Anderson

Elections raise the question what kind of country do you want? Do you want a strong nation grounded in tradition but forward looking, or do you want a country following a disproven doctrine that will continually test your rights and freedoms? Those are our options in a nutshell, like it or not.

I think most Americans have made up their minds concerning whom to vote for in November, but there may still be some weighing their choices and perhaps caring for neither. If you are still in the sway, critical questions might be useful in reaching a conclusion. Here’s some.

Should America remain an autonomous, self-determining country? Should immigration be legal and controlled but fair? Should leadership be complicit in breaking existing immigration law as it does now? How many illegal immigrants are enough? Is illegal immigration fair to legal immigrants and American citizens? What are the political implications of illegal immigration?

Are you taxed enough? When Kamala Harris tells you she will impose tax increases only on the wealthy, do you believe her? Do you support tax and spend?

Do you believe in democracy or socialism? Do you believe only citizens should be allowed to vote in our elections? Do you understand what socialism is?

Who will best protect your Constitutional rights? Are you willing to forfeit certain rights such as freedom of speech or the right to bear arms, or do you want all rights vigorously protected for your kids and grandkids? Who would best assure that?

Who will bring inflation under control? Are you okay that inflation data doesn’t include the cost of food or fuel? Do you know what causes inflation?

Are you paying enough at the pump right now, or do you long for more? Do you believe energy will continue to rise after the election? Would America be better off energy independent? Has the high cost of fuel limited your freedom to move about?

Should schools be incubators of socialism or teachers of the fundamental skills necessary for productive lives? Should parents have a primary role in the education of their children or should that be forfeited to an omniscient state?

Are agencies and bureaucracies too powerful? Who would best be able to curb that power? Are the people still the boss?

Should America demand our allies pay their fair share for NATO membership and their own defense? Should America retreat or be a leader and model for freedom? Why do we continue to support and defend prosperous countries like South Korea?

Is the national debt big enough? Who will reduce waste and review subsidies?

Who will best help you fulfill your dreams and ambitions? Are you happy, fulfilled and confident, or are you uneasy about the future?

That’s enough questions. What we need now are answers.

Your response to the aforementioned questions and many others could guide you to the right leadership. Good luck with that and one of the most important elections in recent history. Just remember to trust our tested system, your fellow citizens, and all those who have gotten us this far. Then do the right thing for the right reasons.

Larry W. Anderson is a tired educator.