I think a focus on integrity is key to removing the blinders so many catholics in America are wearing. Simply put:A person of integrity espouses a belief system that affects his world view,his words must reflect that belief system and his actions must correspond to his words.In other words,his thoughts,words and deeds must be congruent.
As long as we are earth bound the only way we can hope to discern and make prudent decisions (judgements) about political candidates is to see how well they adhere to those core beliefs they say they hold. This is why I find it downright scary to think a Catholic could vote for Kerry,for example. This whole political campaign could end up a great force for God in the world. Jesus did not come to sow confusion,that's the work of the "other guy". And it all starts with a lie.