Let’s face it. It wasn’t always like this, was it? Yes, I realize people are people, and we are doing the same bad things we’ve witnessed throughout the ages, but you’ve got to admit, it’s getting worst, isn’t it?

Take for instance the last 2006 election campaigns. The ads you saw and head did not talk about what the candidate has done and the benefits realized (or not) and the difference it has made. You didn't hear them talk about what they stand for and what they will do once elected. No, you don’t hear that. What you get is a whole lot of B.S. One person pointing out the other's mistakes and shortcomings.

No, I believe people need to know who you are and what you stand for. And that goes for you candidates that are running in the 2008 elections. In addition, not only tell us what you want to do, but show us your plan of how you will do it.

That is why I believe it is important to have a standardized approach for campaigning. Let’s give all voices a chance to be heard. Yes, I know as we have seen in the last few Republican debates with 10 candidates and all. But even still. As a representative of the people, lay out your plan of what you will do and how you will do it. It’s going to be hard, and it’s going to take time, but we should hear what you've got planned. That's what I want my blog to be; me letting you know what I stand for and what I think needs to be done to move America ahead. The politics of today are too bureaucratic and built on the power/money machine, and those who own a piece of the action now will not want to let go so easily, and so that is why I say it will be hard and it will take time.

We the people. The time has come. Will you stand with me for a new beginning. No more playing politics. We’ve got a great country and an opportunity for making it a better place. Our country and our interests should be represented, but as you have seen, over and over again, politicians are not in it for to good of all Americans. Let that fact be know.

If you elect me, I'll give you the best four years of my life and will take my issues directly to you, the people. If I'm overruled, I have no problem in going with another plan as long as it represents the values and beliefs of the working people. Those that have given deeply in the past to keep the machine of government running. No longer will we stand for politicians playing their games. It's over. We the people have spoken.

Respectfully, /jc4president

The way things are now, the only ones who have a chance of running and winning an election are those who have big money behind them. Think of it, Bloomberg putting up $1B dollars. It is insane. That issue has to be resolved if we want all Americans to have the opportunity to give in service to their country.

What I propose is that we limit the amount of money, and more importantly, where the money comes from (special interest groups, big companies, etc.) that is needed to run for office. All Americans should have the chance to serve and contribute new thinking to the way government does business.

Here’s how I would do it. No matter what political race you want to enter, every candidate (who has submitted their request to run) is given the exact amount of money. Yes, that’s right. Each candidate is given the same amount of money to use however creatively they wish; however they decide to get their message out.

For example, candidates would be given$10,000.00 dollars. That’s right. You’ve read it correctly. Why do they need more? What we want to know is their vision for the future, how they stand on the issues, and how they will go about getting it done.

We the People, would establish a government news network (tv, radio, newspaper, etc.) and other mediums for disseminating information. Every candidate will be given the same amount of time and media to get their message out. The costs will not be taken out of the $10K. That’s theirs to use as they choose. THis is a simply a way of leveling the playing field and giving everyone the opportunity to run for office.

All career politicians, no matter the political party or office held, must be voted out. We need to send a clear message to all those who wish to serve, that you must do it because you believe in this country and want to contribute to making it better and not to make it a career for power, money, and privilege. Therefore, it is extremely important that all Americans have equal opportunity to serve–Mayor, Congressman, or President of the USA. It doesn’t matter. By serving the public, no matter what office or level, we all contribute to future, that we and our children have to live in.

In addition, I propose that we change the rules for how long we serve and how much we make. For example, I think serving four year terms, with an option for another four years is too long. Three years, with the option for another 3 years is sufficient. If you can’t make a difference in 6 years, then the system isn't working.

How much you make will be based on how much you are earning (base salary, including benefits) prior to taking office. For example, if you are a CEO of some company and making $200K a year, then that would be how much you would make as President. Americans would essentially pay your salary for the 3 to 6 years that you hold office. Also, when your service to the United States of America is complete, you will be guaranteed getting your old job back, unless of course you decide to do something different. But your previous job will be secure and waiting for you upon completing your service.

Sidebar: While I’m on the topic of term limits, I propose that judges (all types) be limited in the “for life” option they now receive. Let them serve the 3 years, and move on after 6 years, giving others a chance to serve. I’ll talk about this in more detail in another post.

Regarding Americans serving Americans. My staff will consist of people from all walks of life, with no regard to their “political party.” The old adage of Republican, Democrate, Independent, etc. has lost its usefulness. Political parties DO NOT get the job done. Haven’t we had enough of political parties, interest groups, and big money. I will serve the people using people I serve.

Cordially, jc4president

We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

The 2008 elections are not far off. I'm voting to remove anyone and everyone who is a career politician. Enough is enough. Politicians do not represent the majority of people. Their empty rhetoric of "doing the work of the American people" is thin and hollow. They are in it for themselves. Don’t let ‘em tell you anything different. Their actions speak louder than words, or should I say the almighty $$$ and their thirst for power.

To get our country back on track, it’s going to take all people voting for the regular “Joes.” We need to work together for the good of people, not a political party. We need a debate of ideas and innovative thinking, using common sense, and develop solutions that deal with the real problems we face as a country.

All US citizens need to step up to the higher calling. If you do not, then you are leaving it up to somewhat else to decide for you. Do you want more of the same, or a real change? Maybe you don't think it's possible. Or maybe you do not think you've got what it takes. Or maybe you think our country has gone too long to be able to turn it around now. Don't give up hope. I believe we can do it.  Let’s focus on the issues that face us as a people and a nation. Stand with me now and make a decision to make a difference.

I will use this blog to describe my thinking on the issues of the day: immigration, war on terror, unemployment, etc. All of it. Let’s take one issue at a time, discuss it, debate it, make a decision, and implement our solution. How hard can it be?

Lots to do. Let’s get to it. I’m ready, are you?

Respectfully, /jc4president