McCain or Obama: Who will help the middle class?

As the presidential election season gets underway between Republican nominee John McCain and Democratic nominee Barack Obama, the mudslinging has already begun with much more to come I’m sure. While both candidates have their shortcomings, the number one issue in the back of everyone’s mind, no matter how we try to tiptoe around it, is that Barack Obama is ½ black. Unfortunately, this makes many Americans uncomfortable because of the legacy of racism in this country.

However, we cannot let racism define this election. Nor can we let partisan politics define this election either. At this point in time, it is imperative that we stick to the issues; the economy, the Iraq War and all of its consequences, healthcare reform, education initiatives…the list goes on. For the majority of Long Islanders, we need to weigh these issues so we can answer the most important question in the voting booth; Which candidate is going to do the most to help the middle class?

For the past eight years, the Republicans have not behaved as Republicans and the Democrats certainly have not behaved as Democrats. We have a clean slate in this election. Now is the time to get past the labels and listen to what the candidates have to say. Get the facts before you vote, our stake in America depends on it.