What Political Party should I join?

Question

I already registered as a Republican only cause my mom is Republican, but I'm having second thoughts now that I've been researching more on the parties, so please help me figure out what I should join! Here are my beliefs:

Pro-Life

Civil Union, but not g*y marriage

tree-hugger

pro stem-cell research

Against war in Iraq and think we should concentrate more on Afghanistan.

BIG on fixing the environment

Answer 1

You don't need to join a political party. Register as an independent and for each election, evaluate the candidates carefully and vote for the one that best follows your values. Never vote for the party but vote for the candidate.

Answer 2

if you are really rich, vote republican.  they'll help you hold on to it.

if you want to be rich, vote democrat.  they'll help you get there.

but then, let's look at your ideals:

R -- Pro-Life

D? -- Civil Union, but not g*y marriage  (why?)

D -- tree-hugger

D -- pro stem-cell research

D -- Against war in Iraq and think we should concentrate more on Afghanistan.

D -- BIG on fixing the environment

looks like dems win,  5:1

now you could certainly look at other parties, but if you really want to make progress on your goals, the candidates of the  major parties are going to get elected.  keep in mind that Nader ran against Gore, and got enough of the liberal vote that Gore lost.  Be a real shame to wipe out the candidate that wants most of what you do, voting for someone who doesn't get elected, but supports all of your ideals.

<<If you Work for a Living---- you are a Republican.

If you refuse to Work, and are on Welfare----you are a Democrat.>>

yeah, sure, Calif, the 6th largest economy in the world is democrat -- because we're all on welfare.  or not.

Answer 3

The only impact party registration has for most people is determining which primaries you can vote in.  More important, you should study the candidates positions on the issues that are important to you and then vote for them, regardless of party.  Based on the totality of your list, with the possible exception of pro-life*, you will likely find that you are more comfortable voting for Democrats.  

I'm glad you are thinking about these issues and forming your own views and not simply basing them on what your parents believe, which is what a lot of people do.

*I'd note that those who support a woman's right to choose are most definitely not "anti-life."  The term pro-life is very disingenuous.

Answer 4

If you are not a multi-millionaire hording all your money there is absolutely no advantage personally to being a republican.  My family going way back always voted republican but have seen the damage created by republican administrations and most of us have switched parties.  My suggestion would be to change your registration.

Answer 5

Well, first you need to be aware when a change in registration goes into effect. In NY it is real complicated. I am an Independent after many years as a Demoncrat. But I would give the Republicans a chance. Get involved and meet the people in your area. They might be as diverse in opinions as you. It doesn't hurt and you might change some minds Then if you really feel you are in the wrong place seek out the other parties and find out more. But don't stop at the Republicans and Democrats. Being in the Independence Party in NYS is really interesting and strategically important since it has the third ballot position so both major parties are always fighting for us.

Answer 6

you definitely sound more liberal than conservative. in fact the only conservative ideal you have is your stance on abortion and g*y rights, however, there are many pro-life, anti-g*y marriage (but pro-civil union) democrats.

you could register independent if you'd prefer, but you're a most like a democrat rather than a republican.

Answer 7

You might as well just stay registered as a Republican.  You might be idealistic now, but eventually you will likely want to keep the money you worked for.

In the meantime, you can vote Democratic in the general elections while you don't have any money.

Answer 8

Yep.  

If you Work for a Living---- you are a Republican.

If you refuse to Work, and are on Welfare----you are a Democrat.