The 2012 General Election reminds me why I changed from being a Republican to a Democrat some years ago.   The realization came when acknowledgement was made that the Democrats placed emphasis on civil rights and caring for/helping people in need of assistance.

This emphasis is central in the Obama administration.   Helping the middle class is evident in actions that President Obama has taken.   The Payroll Tax Cut put more money in the pockets of hard working Americans, who are trying to sustain a decent way of living.    Those on the other side of the political spectrum want tax cuts too, BUT they call for these cuts for people who are able to pay taxes.     If this causes shortages in funds, the middle class can always make up the difference by paying more money or the programs that help people in need can be cut in funding.   Does this seem fair?   I don’t think so. 

The Obama Health Care Reform certainly helps all people.    Already under this Reform, parents can keep their children on the family’s health insurance longer, for more years; persons with pre-existing will not be denied health insurance coverage and women can receive preventive services without any charges.   Who wouldn’t want these benefits?   However, the Republicans want to kill this Reform, “Obamacare” as they call it, supposedly, because of the provision for mandatory coverage of health insurance for everyone, which they originally supported.   This is the same party that wants people to be responsible for their own lives.  What is more responsible than to insure oneself against medical expenses?

by Kathleen O'Leary

These are just a few among many issues, including the assaults on women’ rights and the value of their work by the Republicans, which reconfirm my decision to be a Democrat.  Now is the time we have to work keeping the spirit of helping people alive by re-electing Barack Obama.   Everyone has to take part no matter what it will be, whether volunteering or telling friends about Obama.    The most important part is making sure that all vote, so we can move forward to a bright future of caring.