It is on the heels of Ron Paul’s suspension of his race for the presidency that I write this month’s article. As a “Paulite” I must say that I am sorely disappointed… but am I disappointed at his withdrawal or is it our entire system? I must say it’s our system that leaves me wondering if there is a possibility of a “fair election”. Months ago I resigned myself to the fact that Paul would not be our next president.

As much as I long to imagine a positive outcome and make it so, it seems that the mainstream news media elects our presidents. Budget notwithstanding, the coverage on Hillary, Obama, and McCain has been almost overwhelming it its magnitude. Candidates like Dennis Kucinich and Ron Paul were all but ignored by main stream – Even the talk shows that are supposed to be “right wing”, like Rush Limbaugh, Neal Bortz (he calls himself Libertarian), and Glenn Beck were either mildly against Paul, mostly ignored him, or just plain went with the official Republican agenda – whatever that happens to be.

True coverage by any news media has been a rare commodity. Doesn’t it make you wonder what else the media spin doctors sell us - hook line and sinker? What is purported to be “news” is more pundits giving their opinion. Next time you’re listening to “news” notice how much spin the newscaster puts on it. Come back from the hypnotic effect of the T.V. or the radio and really listen to what the pundit (not announcer) is saying. Is it a downright ad, not always even veiled, for the candidate of their (the network’s) choice?

One of the best things that you can do in a situation in which you cannot trust the information given is to research it on your own. Don’t always believe everything you read online, either. There’s a world of misinformation and sales spin out there.

Vote your conscience. Make your own decisions based on what’s in your heart. If you feel strongly that one of the official candidates is the right person for the job, then by all means give that candidate your vote. If you are voting for the lesser of two evils, out of fear of the ramifications of the opposition being elected, step back and think about it. Vote for the person who truly holds your ideals and stay true to yourself. Staying away from the polls because you don’t want one of the big party’s guys will only give the system more power. Vote Green - Vote Libertarian - Vote Constitution - Vote Independent, but let the pundits know how you really feel and that your mind is not just putty in their hands.

Declare your independence this November and vote.

Sherry Henderson, Editor