Ooooh... I hate polls.

As a voter, I hate polls. I never get polled!!

I always feel under-represented as the cynical democrat turned independent-socialist-liberal.

I frequent www.pollster.com, to see if my unique political mindset might have been represented at any point... alas, no luck.

A friend recommended this site, and I recommend it as well, as it is a more in-depth analysis... http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/ Great information; everything from Tipping Point States to Likely Electoral Votes. Check it out.

With this year's political season entering its final weeks, I'm starting to follow the election.

I've researched the candidates and their views, listened to the three Presidential debates and one VP debate, and have done my best to be [what I consider] an "informed voter".

I have a hard time dealing with the fact that there are things about both candidates I'll never know, but I suppose that's true of all people. How do you know that new friend you've just made wasn't a serial killer in her hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana? People's true colors and intentions rarely come out until they're put in the situation, under the gun.

That said, I don't believe ANY job will prepare you to be President, so we rely on candidates to "prove" that they have good judgment, diplomacy, and communication.

I don't want a president who will go around bucking convention for convention's sake; I want a president who will learn from our past 100 years of progress [and failures] and take us forward. I don't mind a president who learns on the job, so long as they're making decisions based on sound judgment, with the input of other intelligent people.

I want my president to be intelligent.
President of the Harvard Law Review?
Yes, please.

I realize that real-world experience is invaluable.
But... a Harvard degree... man, that's hard to beat.
[Especially when his wife has one to match.]

I'm [generally] in favor of more intelligent people in power, across the board.

Call me crazy, but if you have to pass difficult physical and emotional tests to become a Navy SEAL, why would we expect any less of our president?

I'm in favor of implementing an American Gladiators Gauntlet, followed by Jeopardy-style trivia, followed by a debate; all occurring within three days.

Maybe that'll be enough to prove you're worthy enough to lead.
We're all waiting for proof, but unfortunately, we're don't get it until we cast our ballot.

On November 4, 2008 we will make history.
On January 20, 2009 we will make change.