I praised Iowa voters Monday evening for turning out in record numbers and making the nation aware that the democratic process is still alive. After the caucus, I read some statements by the citizens of Iowa which made me question their understanding of the American political system, and if their decisions were made from watching television. I once read that American voters are the least informed in the world. Is that true? Probably.

The first proof that the voters of our nation fail their responsibility is the most egregious. Most of America’s electorate vote for the party of a candidate, and know nothing about the individual they plan to elect. Instead of being Independent and learning where the candidate stands on the issues or if their moral character deserves their support, if that person has an “R” or a “D” next to their name the box is marked.

Although that is the saddest truth, other examples of ignorance exist.

In Iowa the third most asked question about the candidates was ‘why is Donald Trump so orange.’ I’m not making this up.

Iowa voters asked: “Is Jeb Bush related to George W. Bush?” “Who are Jeb Bush’s parents?” “Who is Jeb Bush’s father?” and “Is Jeb Bush George Bush’s brother?” Really?

Another was: “Is Ted Cruz from Canada?”

Before he withdrew on Monday evening, this question was asked: “Is Huckabee still running for President?”

Finally: “Is Bernie Sanders vegan?”

What any of this has to do with his or her qualifications to lead our nation I do not understand.

My advice is turn off the TV and get on the internet. ‘Real Clear Politics’ offers information about candidate’s positions on every issue. Thousands of articles are available; no one is immune once they declare their political ambitions.

Previously I wrote an article questioning the importance of the Iowa caucus; now you understand why.

Op-Ed

By James Turnage

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Photo Courtesy of DonkeyHotedy

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