Political Parties

1. Which political party do you most identify with?  Why?  Are there things in the party platform with which you disagree?

I suppose I identify with both parties. I identify with the Republican party the most. Mainly because I believe with there stance on on social and human ideas which individual rights and justice. I believe it is individual responsibility to take care of oneself. I agree with the death penalty and increased spending on military issues. If I had to disagree with anything it have to be the opposition of gay marriage.However I don't find this to be of that much importance, as it doesn't effect me.

2. Does America need political parties?  The founders originally hoped that American politics would operate without need of parties?  Would that work today?  Why?

I think in some ways America would would be much better without political parties. I think to many people get wrapped up in the parties and not the actual politics. They vote for someone because they are republican or democrat rather than what the person stands for. I think people have become to dependent upon these parties and our system wouldn't operate well without them.

3. Please research lesser known political parties - which one do you most identify with?  Why?

I came across the America First Party, which promotes economic growth and independence. I identify with this party because I feel economic growth is so important right now. It also encourages the traditional  values of faith, family, and responsibility. I think that is wonderful.

Interest Groups

I chose the National Education Association (NEA), which is the nation's largest employee organization. It's primary goal is to advance public education. They believe everyone should have the opportunity to a public education to better there lives, future, and education. There website states, "NEA also believes every student in America, regardless of family income or place of residence, deserves a quality education. In pursuing its mission, NEA has determined that we will focus the energy and resources of our 3.2 million members on improving the quality of teaching, increasing student achievement and making schools safer, better places to learn." I whole-heartedly believe in this cause. I differ on the no child left behind stance in some way however, I feel like some students with special needs that need to be placed in a certain classroom so they can get the attention they need to learn. I know from experience that they still get left behind and it furthers others around them. 

I found an interest group I really related to and it is the Gun Owners of America. They have been working since 1975 to preserve and defend the rights of the second amendment. I find there position on issues persuasive because I believe it's our right as Americans to be able to have a gun. Whether it is for protection, or if you just enjoy it for recreational use. People say guns kill people, I disagree with that statement. People kill people. Even if they are made illegal people with still be able to get them, just like drugs! 

I don't think as a majority interest groups have to much power. In some cases i'm sure they do. I believe it's wonderful that people can join with a group of people they relate to on an issue and fight for the things they believe.  

Media and Objectivity

I feel objectivity most defiantly still occurs in media's coverage of politics. It's sad to say but Fox News is defiantly pro-republican and it's very obvious. I think all stations though are pro something. I would absolutely love a news station that reported news weather it was good or bad for the republicans or democrats. Just honest raw news. What you need to know, not what you want to hear.

I don't listen to talk radio. I get so annoyed when it comes on. It's just a personal preference. It annoys me to no end! The prefer to see the person who is speaking weather it be on TV or in person. So I supposed it doesn't really affect my views, because I avoid it at all costs.

Of course media objectivity is important! I want to hear the facts not someone's opinion! I think this is very hard to achieve however. Almost everyone has an opinion and is in some way going to be biased. I do think it is so important to hear the facts though. I think you needs facts first! Then it's always good to get an opinion from both sides of the spectrum. I've you've never been in a situation you may not understand it. Other people's thoughts and opinions can sometimes help educate you also.