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EDITOR'S NOTE: A video clip of Nader's address at UH is available.

February 26, 2004

Presidential hopeful challenges voters to study politicians’ records

By Mike Emery
Staff writer

According to independent presidential candidate Ralph Nader, the dictionary is the only place where ‘democracy’ comes before ‘work.’

Nader, a longtime consumer activist and author, addressed a full house at the University of Houston’s Cullen Performance Hall. His speech, which focused largely on civic duty and the importance of voting, took place just two days after Nader announced his candidacy for President of the United States. Bob Buzzanco, associate professor of history, sponsored the presentation.

“If we don’t allot a few hours each month for our civic responsibility on whatever problems we want to remedy, we’re contributing to the deterioration of our society,” Nader said.

During his speech, he also challenged contemporary politics, corporations and apathetic voters.

“Voter responsibility is studying the record of a politician,” Nader said. “If all voters were as astute, dedicated and sharp as most sports fans are, our country would be in better shape. The average sports fan spends time on his or her team, studying the records, the history of the players and statistics. The average sports fan doesn’t just look at the fourth quarter or ninth inning of the game. He looks at every aspect of the game. Imagine if voters had that level of knowledge, evaluation and insight.”

In addition to charging voters with not being aware of politicians’ voting records, Nader said they often select candidates based on their personalities. He referenced voters who often say such things as, “Well, he has such a nice smile.”

“Would you trust a dentist who has a nice smile but can’t handle the drill?” he asked.

Nader repeatedly encouraged his audience to become involved in civic activities. While time is a factor that often prevents people from volunteering in their communities, Nader said that without public participation, the American way is lost.

“If we don’t learn that civic action can be fun because it produces justice, which is the best way for life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, there is no freedom,” he said.