Jenny H (SmartCookie)

Orato Member since September 2, 2008

I am a lifelong self-thinking Republican. I'm also an organic-eating, pro-choice, anti-nuclear environmentalist. ;-) ...... Yessssssssss, I'm a Republican!

I began blogging at the John McCain for President website back in the middle of May when he announced his position on climate change and energy independence. My screen name at the JSM Blog, and elsewhere, is SmartCookie.

I'm very proud to say I met many more Republicans at the RNC convention who are more like me than the typical mainstream media-fed cynical stereotype. We are generally a diverse and friendly group of self-thinkers who value individuality and freedom of thought above all else. I am happy to be able to say that disagreements are frequently discussed in friendly, lively, respectful debate.

Conservatives of all types (Dem, Rep, and indie - NOT right-wing mouthpieces!) are generally more private with their thoughts and are not often reflected in polls. But, we're definitely abundant in the political equation, even if more quiet.

You may find it interesting to know that at the beginning of this primary season, I had been prepared to say "Boo Yah!" to my party. I was determined to vote for the best candidate, regardless of party affiliation. Like many others, I looked at Sen. Obama early on as an attractive outsider-candidate. I donated to his campaign. I loved his speech in 2004 and loved the way I heard him talk about America.

At the time when I considered him for my vote, Sen. McCain had not yet secured enough delegates and it was unclear who the Rep nom would be. Frankly, I wasn't too excited about some of the Reps in the front-running at the time.

Well, unfortunately, closer investigation of Sen. Obama left me thinking it seemed as if he didn't really know what he was doing. It was tough to pin down his beliefs and his record was confusing and unimpressive. Just another politician working his way up the ranks of party politics, without making any waves or going against extremism or special interests in his own party for the good of our country. I believe he still has a lot to learn about public service.

As for my vote, I couldn't be more proud to be supporting Sen. McCain for President and Gov. Palin for Vice-President! Our Constitution gives no power to special interests, political parties or media bias. We The People are responsible for our government, not the other way around. This is the first time I've ever become politically active in my life, thanks to Sen. McCain's leadership and inspirational example.

I am dedicated to conveying an honest opinion, based on my own observations, experiences and beliefs. I encourage all Americans to vote your own conscience regardless of what anyone else tells you ... even me.

One final thought: Thomas Jefferson said, "A government big enough to give you everything you want is big enough to take away everything you have."

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