You're right. I did just register today. I've come across this site once or twice in the past, but seeing a few of the posts today, I felt compelled--especially because I'm not all that busy at the moment--to reply.
I hope I haven't stepped on anyone's toes; my impression was that this is a discussion site and any polite, legitimate discussion is permitted.
As for your questions, I'll answer them if you do, as well.
1) I don't suppose I have much of an opinion. I don't feel that religion should play a part in law; laws are designed to promote what is best for the most number of people, aren't they? If someone is hurt by gay marriage, I'll certainly change my views, but I've never seen a satisfying argument that this is the case. If homosexuality is indeed a sin, I believe that homosexuals will get their justice by god, not by the laws of man.
2) Again, for abortion, I'd apply that best for the most people standard. Abortion as a form of contraceptive is obviously ridiculous; abortion in the case of medical necessity, rape, or incest is probably quite justifiable. I believe that the pros and cons must be weighed in each case.
3) I think you're polarizing this one quite a bit. I believe that guns should be kept out of the hands of juveniles, the incompetent, and criminals. I believe that if you have a legitimate reason for owning and carrying a gun, you should be allowed to, but you should have no issues with photo licenses, either (after all, we all cary photos on our driver's licenses).
4) I believe that the U.N. is ineffective and quite weakened, however, I do believe that Wilson's idea of an international organization of states is a good one.
5) I did not vote in 2000; I am planning to vote for John Kerry, because it is my belief that the Bush administration has repeatedly mislead the public, made bad decisions, and pandered to a few special interest groups to the detriment of America as a whole.
In short, I disagree with both party lines; I often agree more with third parties on the left and the right. Unfortunately, both parties seem far more interested in special interests than doing what I believe is best for the country.
I await your answers with great interest as well. Cheers!
That is not the case.
I am planning to vote for John Kerry, because it is my belief that the Bush administration has repeatedly mislead the public, made bad decisions, and pandered to a few special interest groups to the detriment of America as a whole.
Arguing to convince others to vote for John Kerry would be out-of-bounds on this site.
You should read this statement by the founder and owner of Free Republic describing the purpose and guidelines of this site:
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1103363/posts
This site is for conservative discussion. Of course, there is wide latitude among conservative viewpoints or those who hold them. But you sound as though you hold no conservative viewpoints whatsoever.
You didn't answer all my questions, and thank you for the answers you presented so far.
You want to actually put forth the idea that because you feel Bush has done whatever... then you would waste you vote on socialist agenda that changes every three minutes (Kerry's flip-floppiness)?
You have provided no intellectually honest reason why you should vote for Hanoi John Kerry.
If you are gonna be dissatisfied with both major parties, you should be honest enough to waste your vote on a fringe candidate that comes closest to your standards, or, heckfire, write in yourself!
I don't buy your argument on voting for Kerry one bit.
OK, that's all we needed to know.