Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Will the real Labor Party please stand up!

I can't begin to express how under-whelmed I am with the current Federal Election campaign. Regardless of all the minor parties and independents, it really is only a two horse race - the LP (Liberal Party) or the ALP (Another Liberal Party, formerly the Australian Labor Party) - thanks to our preferential voting system.

I look at the policies of the ALP and desperately seek the differences to the present government that may make them worthy of my vote. I see them watering down their industrial relations policies; their lack of true support for a strong, free and secular public education system; their support for the erosion of the rights of indigenous people; pulp mills... The list goes on.

I despair at those who can't see beyond "tax cuts" and other bribes aimed at their wallets and the politicians of all persuasions who feed the greed. Is there anyone who still believes in the notion of the common good, enlightened self-interest or communal responsibility?

And why do I keep getting asked if I'm voting for Rudd or Howard? I'm not in either of their electorates. Kevin07 and screaming teens? Please.

I read, and I watch, and I wait for that glimmer of something, anything...

It's certainly time for a real alternative.