Todd...

You hit it right on the head.

Your political affiliation is not the most important issue. The importance rests is in taking part in the process by voting.

On another note, it's sad, in my opinion, that so many people, including many on this board, are so polarized in their politics. Our system was built on compromise between the parties. Checks and balances if you will. The "Left Wing Liberals" vs "Right Wing Conservatives" approach has never and will never work effectively.

It is unfortunate that so many discussions degrade into a name calling contest. Most of the time it appears more like a bunch of spoiled children agruing and calling each other names rather than what should be, rational adults discussing the issues.

I am a Republican. However I don't blindly support everything based on a policitcal affiliation. I like to think I am able analyze the issues and/or canidates and support the people and positions that I feel make sense for our country. I vote across party lines when I feel it is the right thing to do.

Have the Republicans made serious mistakes during their time in power? Damn straight they have and now the power has shifted because people voted.

It is my sincere hope, as it has been for years, that some sort of Bipartisan cooperation will rise from the ashes and decisions will be made based on whats best for the country and not the individuals or the parties involved.