This is one of several guest columns that were submitted in response to this question: How do you identify yourself politically (liberal, conservative, Democrat, Republican, Green, Libertarian, independent, something else or none of the above) and what does that mean to you?
By Bob Coppedge
I consider myself an independent, and that means to support and vote for the person and the policy, not the party. Over the years I have registered as a Democrat and as a Republican, and will register in a party when there is a candidate to support in the primary. No party has a monopoly on wisdom, and to vote the party line is to shortchange the mind all should cultivate.
Frustrating indeed is the negative atmosphere that surrounds many campaigns. Respect is too often a rare commodity, especially respecting the right of others to have a different opinion, but it’s hard to respect someone who looks down on you for your different opinion. Convince me of the wisdom of your position, but in a respectful way that appeals to my mind, not my emotions. I will then be more inclined to consider your position.
My vote, money and recommendation go to the candidate who supports policies I support, and does so in a generally positive manner.
Retired from New Mexico State University, with two of my degrees from NMSU, I was raised in Hobbs and spent 10 years out of state — in Utah, Oregon and Florida. I’ve been back in the state with NMSU for over 30 years, following local, state and federal politics. It’s a great state!
Coppedge lives in Mesilla Park.