Experience needed in next president

I am a member of the baby-boomer set. I have observed history in the making, from World War II to Iraq, with my earliest presidential memories being of President Truman.

I've continually been amazed by the way American voters make their choices. I have spent a lot of time on my computer, reading the postings of so-called average citizens in regard to the upcoming presidential election, and most of them give me cause for extreme concern.

I am shocked by the language used, the hatred shown and the ignorance exhibited by most of the postings. If these people represent the average American, I can understand why our status as a country has plunged to an all-time low at home and abroad. I am equally concerned that Americans are being dramatically swayed by the opinions of the media, including those like Oprah Winfrey, who use their influence to try to sway public opinion. It is hard to imagine that a talk-show host's opinions could actually matter in the voting booth.

I am a staunch Democrat, and have voted in every presidential race following John Kennedy's assassination, but I fear I may not participate in this one. I cannot in all honesty vote for a man whose only claim to fame is a moving speech at the last Democratic convention and a few months of service in Congress prior to declaring himself as a presidential candidate.

Barack Obama has been touted as being "refreshingly honest," but I fear that is only because his previous history of alcohol, pot smoking and cocaine usage, (when he could afford it) was common knowledge. Many people do not seem to consider this a liability, as I do. Call me old-fashioned, but I do not consider these traits presidential.

I pride myself on voting for the candidate and not the party, but I could not cast my vote for Rudy Giuliani either. A man without family values, not to mention lack of experience in federal government, would not serve this country well at this critical time in our history. Experience is key.

The only hope for this country is to elect someone with the experience necessary to deal with other world leaders, the war in Iraq and terrorism, as well as our economy, health care, illegal immigration and Social Security issues on the home front.

For the Democrats, the most qualified candidate is Hillary Rodham Clinton. The Republican's most qualified and knowledgeable candidate is John McCain.

If Americans, in their infinite wisdom, choose Giuliani and Obama to run in the November election, be assured that important decisions like these will be made by their advisers. Sound familiar?

I pray that common sense will prevail and qualified, experienced candidates will be chosen by both political parties.

Barbara Gowins

Carpentersville