To the editor:

Daily, I am beset by letters, emails and phone calls soliciting support for one party/candidate or another. In fact, so many come that I find it easy to just say “no.”

We are not a pivotal state and the money in campaigns is so big, I ask who am I?

Even worse, the story lines are simplistic on jobs, economy and health care. Candidates on both sides claim, “I can/will do better.” 

But how? I want to hear better points. Let me try a couple areas:

How should we make sure the next generation is given the best preparation for the future? A farmer invests in the best seeds because that makes sense. Predicting value of outcomes is difficult and elusive, but not investing promises a predictable, regrettable future.

How will our people be respected/honored for their concern and service to the disadvantaged, unfortunate, overlooked and ignored and victims of calamities in our country and elsewhere in the world? Jesus’ list of the “blessed” poses challenges: e.g., the poor, meek, hungry, persecuted.

How can we address problems with health care costs?  We are aware many resort to emergency rooms for lack of coverage. We are uncomfortable about others determining what care we receive, whether that be a private insurance company or some government system. Critical evaluation of procedures and efficiency is essential.

A personal or national debt is not to be ignored. Have party platforms ever included ideas beyond a “balanced budget” amendment? (Has Congress ever been required to avoid balancing the budget?)

That kind of a political campaign can engage my interest.