The Political Whore

The fourth in our election series look at who people in Tampa Bay are voting for, and why. You can join in and vote in our unscientific survey after the jump.

Brandy Stark, co-founder of S.P.I.R.I.T.S. in St. Petersburg, a paranormal investigative group

She’s voting for: Barack Obama.

Brandy Stark

Why? “Personally, this was a struggle for me as I am not overwhelmingly swayed by either candidate. My primary concern for this election is that Obama is untested and this is going to be a very hard learning curve. The U.S. is undergoing some very trying times. I feel badly for whoever gets into office, because there will be one heck of a mess to clean up. However, I think that we do need change, and though both parties have their issues, a party change is the first step. Deregulation, part of the Republican platform, has not worked too well if today’s economy is a reflection of the result, and I do believe in utilizing government programs to aid with education and other societal issues. In truth, I was really hoping for Hillary, and although she didn’t make it, I am hopeful that Obama will appoint her (and/or Bill) to cabinet offices or other positions where they may be of service to this country.”

What she would say to a McCain supporter: “I do believe that we have the right to ‘life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’ This was a liberal thought in the time that it was written and is still a radical thought today. I have seen a rather strong trend towards the loss of individual rights in this country for a while now. I fear that McCain and Palin are far too conservative on what I believe to be moral choices and civil rights for my comfort. While they may not directly have an impact upon the laws of this land, they will appoint Supreme Court justices and others who will. Once something is enacted in government, it takes a very long time to repeal.”

Local candidate who most interests her: “Bill Heller. I worked at the University of South Florida (St. Petersburg) when he headed that campus. It was one of the most well-run campuses, and I felt quite content and valued there, [which was] a result, I believe, of the positive leadership that was in place at that time. Later, I walked alongside him in the charity fundraising Heart Walks; I’ve run into him as he volunteered at First Night; and he even was at my polling place for his first election. He is grounded, enthusiastic and tested (having survived the politics of higher education for years). I admire his dedication to the local community and his desire to help the greater populace of Florida.”

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