The Last of a Dying Species; Political Moderates

As a moderate, I prioritize balance and pragmatism in my political views, understanding that extreme positions on either end of the spectrum can lead to unintended consequences. While some may perceive my stance as indecisive, I believe that moderation is essential for achieving well-rounded governance that serves the diverse needs of our society.

One of the fundamental reasons I identify as socially liberal and fiscally conservative is my appreciation for personal freedom and individual responsibility. I firmly believe in individuals having the autonomy to make personal life choices without undue interference from the government or other institutions. This includes supporting liberal social policies such as marriage equality, women’s rights, reproductive rights, and criminal justice reform.

Simultaneously, I advocate for a limited governmental role in economic matters, supporting a free market with minimal regulation and taxation. This means endorsing conservative economic policies like free trade, low taxes, and restrained government spending. Balancing these social and economic views isn’t always straightforward; for instance, I might support the principle of universal healthcare while emphasizing the necessity of implementing such a program with fiscal responsibility. I also back immigration reform from a social perspective while prioritizing the protection of American jobs and wages.

One area where I hold a clear and strong belief is in the importance of a robust military. A strong military is crucial for national defense and for maintaining our country’s sovereignty and security in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Regarding education, I advocate for state-run education systems that offer diverse pathways to success. I believe everyone in our country should have access to three primary paths: higher education, trades, and the arts. It’s vital that high schools expand their curricula to include more shop classes and home economics, rather than focusing exclusively on college preparatory programs. By doing so, we can better equip students for various career options and help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

I am not a proponent of the welfare state, particularly when it comes to issues like homelessness. Rather than prolonged funding, I believe that education outreach, clear legal frameworks, and supportive yet firm policies can ultimately address and reduce homelessness more effectively.

As a descendant of Italian immigrants, I inherently value the role of immigration in our country’s foundation. Nonetheless, I do not support an open border policy where unrestricted access allows individuals to utilize taxpayer-funded health and education systems without contributing. I believe in creating work visas for migrant workers, particularly those in agriculture, and providing a legal path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who are employed as laborers. These individuals should have the ability to stay and reside in the country on a long-term temporary basis without the fear of deportation, while also meeting the legal requirements set forth for citizenship.

Being a moderate means I am open to listening to and considering alternative viewpoints to forge pragmatic solutions. Compromise and finding common ground are essential in politics, especially in a climate that is increasingly polarized and divisive. My moderation is aimed at creating a more just and equitable society. Although being a moderate can sometimes be challenging, I am proud to hold this position and remain committed to pursuing policies that result in beneficial outcomes for everyone. I will continue striving to balance social progress with economic stability to drive our country forward constructively and inclusively.