Why I Vote the Way I Do

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I wrote this post because people often ask about my political beliefs. But when I try to explain where I stand, especially when my views differ from theirs, I’m often met with interruptions, condescension, or outright dismissal. Instead of having a respectful dialogue, I’m treated as if my beliefs are too offensive to even be heard.

Let me be clear: I listen. I stay open to what others have to say because I know we live in a world full of misinformation, manipulation, and media spin. Deepfakes, fake news, and agenda-driven narratives are everywhere. So, who can we really trust?

The truth is, in today’s world, “truth” often depends on what we choose to believe, and too often, our beliefs are shaped by sources that aren’t as honest or reliable as they claim to be. That’s why I think for myself. I seek out facts. And I form beliefs based on personal experience, reflection, and discernment.

This post isn’t about converting anyone to my way of thinking. It’s about having the space to share my perspective without being silenced, mocked, or dismissed. These are my beliefs. My truth. And I’m choosing to express them here, fully and freely, because every voice deserves to be heard with dignity, even if others don’t agree.

I’ve come to a place in life where I understand what matters most to me and my household. When I vote, it’s not about political parties. It’s about policies, policies that allow me to build the life I’ve worked hard to create.

Why I Vote the Way I Do

Over the years, I’ve noticed specific patterns. People in different life stages or economic situations often align with different parties. For instance, those working for others or facing financial hardship may find that Democratic policies better support their immediate needs, such as healthcare, job programs, or housing support. I can relate. When I was just starting out, I leaned that way, too. I needed support, and I appreciated the programs that helped me get on my feet.

But later, when I became a business owner, my perspective shifted. I began to see how certain regulations and tax requirements made it harder for me to keep my business going, let alone help it grow. In one particularly challenging year, I had to lay off and let go of my employees. The financial strain from government mandates was just too much.

Then, when the political landscape changed and new policies were introduced, ones that lightened the tax burden and made running a business more feasible, I was able to rebuild. It wasn’t about party loyalty. It was about what allowed me to continue providing jobs, serving my clients, and supporting my family.

I believe in paying my fair share. I believe in treating employees well. And anyone who has worked with me knows that I give generously when I’m able. But to give, I first need the freedom to grow, and sometimes, that means voting for policies that support businesses.

I also understand that people have different needs. Some voters may base their decisions on issues such as education, healthcare, or the environment. That’s their right, and I respect it. We all live different lives, and we all vote with the hope of improving them.

As for political affiliations, I don’t claim any one label. I vote based on alignment with my values and the future I want for my home. Do I agree with everything any one party says or does? No. But I try to choose the candidates whose policies will best serve my family’s needs.

On the topic of immigration, I believe this country is built on the strength and beauty of its immigrant roots. I’ve known many families who came here legally, worked hard, and became citizens. What I struggle with is the idea of bypassing the process. Like any home, I believe our country deserves the right to know who’s coming in and why, just as I would want to know before someone walks into my own home uninvited. That’s not about a lack of compassion. It’s about order, safety, and fairness.

At the end of the day, no matter who holds office, I choose to pray for them. Whether I voted for them or not, whether I like them or not, I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in praying for wisdom, for guidance, and for leadership that benefits all of us. That’s what my faith teaches me.

For People of Faith

For those who are people of faith, I think it’s important to remember what Scripture says about our leaders. Here are a few verses that guide me:

• 1 Timothy 2:1–2 (ESV) – “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions…”
• Romans 13:1 (ESV) – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God…”
• Philippians 4:6 (ESV) – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

These verses help center me when politics feel divisive or discouraging. I believe our time here on earth is part of a greater test: to live by our faith and our values, regardless of what the world looks like around us. My role, as I see it, isn’t to complain or tear others down, but to live out my beliefs through love, prayer, and trust in God’s bigger plan.

So, when I cast my vote, I think about the bigger picture, my household, my faith, and how I can best contribute to the well-being of those around me. And I trust that others are doing the same, even if their choices look different from mine.

This is simply who I am: someone who chooses prayer over protest, love over labels, and faith over fear. I may not get everything right, but I try to walk this journey with integrity, grace, and compassion for all people.

Let’s Talk

I shared these thoughts not to argue or persuade, but to invite an honest and respectful conversation. These are my beliefs, shaped by my experiences and perspective. You may agree, or you may not, and that’s okay. My only ask is that we listen to each other with open minds and mutual respect. Let’s have the kind of discussion where every voice is heard, even when we don’t see eye to eye.

That’s how real understanding begins.