Our checks and balance system is a little skewed at the moment. We have a far-far-far left president, a politically motivated and most of the time incompetent, but still left-leaning Congress, and a Judicial Branch giving rights to terrorists caught on the battlefield and taking away rights of American citizens. There is no balance right now.

-whoisjohngalt

Right, I do my part, in my state. I always vote, but as far as where I stand I live in a democratic state, so if I don't agree, even if I vote, the majority here is not voting the same. County-wise, we are actually a conservative county and vote mostly Republican. I agree, people need to start voting more in local elections and being aware of who they are putting in power.

The count I live in is blue amungst a sea of red. I live in west central illinois, a very conservative area. They are really republican here. However, the county I am in is very democratic when it comes to voting. We are also a university county with two other universities in neighboring cities so I can see why. Where i grew up south of chicago it's VERY BLUE.

It is highly important to vote in all local elections no matter how small it is. While your voice may be different than the whole state, your local voice carries more power because it is... LOCAL.

It's always important to vote even if you do not agree with the candidates. This is a country of the people, by the people, and for the people. If the people do not vote, is it really the peoples wish that happens or the wish of the few who actually took time to vote.

There is no balance right now, but if America is truly unhappy with the way things are going, then in 2 years, we have a chance to change 1/2 of Congress and the House of Representatives. THEN we can see some balance restored.

It tends to work this way (usually) - we get out of balance for a year or two, the people realize how bad it is, and we step in and change it. That is my hope for the 2010 elections. This ons is over, but changes can always be made.

I am so happy about our new President Barack Obama!!! I campaigned for him here in Georgia and drove to Florida to make a change and get out the vote for him. Eight years of failed economic policies, a war that has drained our finances and deregulation of everything has been so hard on the working class American. Now when I tell my young brothers you can be the President if you want to it won't sound hollow. Finally it will be the truth.

Our country is the greatest country to live in and once again it has showed the world that anything is possible. From the slave house to the white house has been the journey for our people and it couldn't have happen to a better person.

Even if you don't share my views about our new President please pray for him and our country because prayer is really needed.

Candace

Hey Candace, first let me start of with the positive that I do agree with your first paragraph but honestly I do not agree with you about "From the slave house to the white house", don't make it about that because it simply isn't true at all, if this is why you campaigned you certainly missed the mark. Don't put President Obama in that category, from my point of view he represents change, a good change and honestly not once have I felt he represents a race, he wants to represent PEOPLE. He is a good man, with good ideas and will make a wonderful President.

Lets revisit four years from now and see if we all still have the same opinions.

Exactly what was it he said except the word Change. If you asked him what was it he did not tell you what his change was.

You know, I think McCain nailed it on the head -- this is our country, it has always been our country, and, if we work for it, it will continue to be our country, even if that means working with people you didn't elect.

As a child, my mother always taught me that you don't have to respect the man, but it's imperative to respect the office of the President. Which is why it pains me so to hear so much of the campaign rhetoric now. On the trail, no holds barred (as long as the claims can be substantiated) but to hear the words "Socialist" now is painful. The fact is, he's American, and will be the President. In four years if you still feel the same, scream at the top of your lungs about the bad calls he's made, but, I beg in the name of our country, please try and remember that in disrespecting the office, you disrespect our country.

John McCain gets it. Why can't the rest of us?

PS -- I can understand the POV about "from the Slavehouse to the White House" there have been many over our history that have been under represented and oppressed. But we as a society need to look forward, not backward. I'm not saying forget the lessons, but dwelling isn't healthy for anyone. I heartily recommend the book "Slavery by Another Name", just while we're on the subject...

It is just like when you work at a job. You are probably not going to get along with all of your coworkers.

But in order to get a project finished on time, you MUST work together.

We have already had a civil war in this country. It killed more Americans than any other war we have participated in. Not to mention ripping apart families.

If you think changes need to be made, then work for them. Don't insult people on forums. DOn't fight with your neighbors. Don't argue with your coworkers.

The election is over, it is decided. TO make a difference, study your laws, get petitions together, and think about who you want in congress in 2010.

For the time being, though -help your fellow Americans in whatever way you can.