Maggie says that she was always liberally inclined with her views and opinions.
This post is part of a Q&A series with voters who have volunteered
to share their perspectives leading up to the November 2024 election.
Political Perspective
Maggie’s Catholic upbringing taught her that there is goodness in all of us, and we should forgive more often than punish or hold grudges. She was always the first one to help a neighbor, organize a meal drive, and volunteer her services when someone needed assistance. She tends to view social perspectives from a liberal mind, but with a conservative position - in other words, she asks herself how would a program, policy, or piece of legislation help many versus just a few in our society? And more importantly, how will this new program be funded? Over the years, Maggie has recognized and appreciated the efforts of leaders and change agents who do just that- look for ways to help those that struggle and need helping hands. Her conservative perspective causes her to believe that helping the less fortunate must come with a price- that they pay it forward once they are back on their feet. Do to others what has been done for you- to paraphrase a common belief. These beliefs follow her into the voting booth.
As a younger person, Maggie generally followed the Republican ticket because that was what her parents taught her. Then, Richard Nixon was elected, and the Watergate scandal opened her eyes to the win at any cost perspective that the Republican party became. The party of Nixon became the party of Reagan with an upside down perspective of trickle down economics and social programs- give more to the capitalists and business community and they would automatically give this back - in jobs and better wages- again helping those less fortunate find their way to achievement. And that never happened. With the Republican party now in the hands of a crime boss who demands extreme loyalty to win favors for themselves, she believes we have lost that American ideal- work hard and help others, and the rewards will be great.
Background
Maggie says that she has reached the ripe age of 67, and after counting the years, she realizes that she has less years to live as compared to the years behind her. She plans to use these remaining years to see more of the world, experience cultures outside her social circles, and give back her time to help others. This includes delivering meals to homebound elderly and disabled community members and providing a more meaningful life for her son who is intellectually disabled. Each day, she plans activities that keep him engaged with the community. He helps Maggie and her husband with meal deliveries, loves to go to the library with Maggie, and visits the beach for swims and walks. Maggie has a great day when her son makes a new connection- identifies a rainbow, greets a friendly neighbor, or helps her in their garden. The library is Maggie’s favorite place to visit. She is an avid reader and looks for new books to read about places that she has visited or plans to visit in the future. Maggie just returned from a ten day trip to Alaska and is working through a reading list provided by a fellow Alaskan admirer that provided additional insights into the culture there. She ran through a similar list after visiting Africa last year.
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Thank you for sharing this info, Maggie. We look forward to learning more about your thoughts as the election nears.