I like Richard Romero. He would be a great improvement over Heather Wilson as my Congressman. But I voted today for Dr.. Miles Nelson.
Why? Because Nelson better represents my views on issues, particularly on is health care. And because Nelson expresses anger toward Wilson and the Administration. There’s a lot to be said for anger, even more for expressing it.
I think there is a case to be made that Richard might run better against Heather; he’s seen as moderate, personally and politically. But he cannot match her in a debate - she’s verbally dynamic and he’s slow. Also, she has a profound knowledge of foreign policy and I believe Richard is less well-informed. Nelson, with the characteristic self-confidence - even arrogance - of an emergency room physician, will take the fight to her.
Finally, it’s impossible to know who will run better.
There’s another consideration. Voters respect strong views simply put. (See George W. Bush, President.) Richard, to his credit, sees the complexities. But this is not the time for Democratic candidates of nuance.
Which leads to another reason for voting for Nelson. I want to tell the Democratic Party that it needs to stand for something.
Understand. I want to win. Heather Wilson is a loyal friend of the White House. That means she works for wealthy individuals, major corporations and the Christian Right. Her defeat will benefit the nation.
So if Richard Romero wins the nomination tonight, I will support him.
But since there is no way to know for sure how to cast a "practical" vote,
I decided today to vote my views. Who knows - maybe that will turn out to be "practical."
And if not, I must say it felt very good.