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.
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