As a voter, I find only a handful of issues I believe to be firmly perquisite to a candidate garnering my vote in an election. I try to take a more world-view and look at issues in a big picture form, to determine what really matters in short term, as well as long term. We live in a nation where the priority of issues is non-static, and thus it is important to understand that weight of an issue is contingent upon this natural priority, rather than personal. Therefore, I find the following to be necessary an elected official.
Foresight
The ability and willingness to compromise short-term public opinion for long-term national gains or solutions. Self sacrifice of elected office in order to fulfill long term constituent needs, as opposed to short term wants, is an admirable trait.
Fiscal Responsibility
Adjunct to the previously mentioned, an elected official must show the willingness to make tough decisions for national solvency for years to come. He must not only maintain current bridges, but to build ones he will never cross.
Trustee of Government
Elected official should form own opinion based on voter opinions, then act with the best interests of the constituency and the nation. They should act on the true needs of the constituency, nation, and to the extent of their own knowledge, experience and discretion.
National Solvency
The ability to balance ethics, justice, and sovereignty. While an elected official must work for the betterment of the planet, should not promote or act in any way that leads to the destruction of the nation or constituency. Every effort should be made to defend and extend the economic interests and authority of the nation. A compromise against the nation in view of any other purpose contradicts the art of representative government.
Ian Foley
Communication Studies
Wilkes 2014
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