When are we going to get some Moderation

Why is that everyone seems to be convinced that everything is black or white? "You're either for us or against us". Your a Conservative or a Liberal. I believe the vast majority of folks are in the middle. It's the old statistical bell curve. Being a moderate doesn't necessarily mean you can't make up our mind. It means you see both sides. Let me give a couple of examples of what I believe are moderate stances on important issues.

GAS PRICES - Should we drill or find alternative source? - For gods sake do both. Drill where it is safe and won't ruin the coastline and important land. And put money into new sources of fuel. Both will take years to develop so at the same time find ways to conserve. Produce more small cars. Improve mass transit. Encourage car pooling, walking and bicycles.

THE IRAQ WAR - Should we get out or stay until the job is done? - Again it's a little of both. The longer we stay the more of a problem it is. The people over there don't really want us there. It's costing us a fortune. We are wearing out our military. Since we are there and can't change the past we have a responsibility to get out without creating a situation that will escalate into an all out middle east war. We need a better plan for getting the Iraqi government on it's feet. We need to set some benchmarks to know when it is time to leave. And start removing troops and equipment that aren't used for peace keeping. The surge seems to have had a positive affect but it means nothing if we don't use it to make progress in other areas. Get out as soon as we can. Don't be afraid to negotiate.

See was that so hard? Learn to look at both sides of an issue. Look for common ground and ways to compromise. Be willing to change as you learn knew facts. And remember, "A little flip flopping never hurt anybody". There is often a good reason for it.

Jeff Jones
August 2008