By Poncho Hernandez Jr.

I’ve read quite a few books, have read newspaper articles, and yes, have even watched televised programs on bad politicians – you know, the ones that allegedly steal and get rich while their employees do all the work.

I’ve also read books, have read newspaper articles, and yes, have watched televised programs on the good deeds politicians perform – yes, the ones who sacrifice their time to support our community while we stand around watching.

I’ve listened closely as their opponents spread rumors and have speculated if the dimmest, slightest idea of what it takes to insure good government is in their heads. I respect politicians whether they win or lose because they stand up to the abuse that’s flung at them.

I’m also intrigued by the apparent lack of respect from Internet bloggers who abuse our politicians’ reputation while hiding under the veil of anonymity.

I’ve written tons of editorials in my life, some good, some bad, and I’ve always posted my name on top. So when I was asked to comment on recent statements posted on the Internet my response was straightforward.

“Who wrote it?” I asked. “Well, I’m not sure,” I was told.

The response was predictable.

While I have little reverence for persons who make unfounded accusations in anonymity, I share even less respect for persons who spread fiction without the slightest regard to the damage they invite.

My conclusion: There’s little difference between politicians and the people who vote “for” or “against” them.

Of course, there are some bad politicians, but I’m proud to say that none of the candidates that appeared in the March ballot had anything to hide. If nothing else, they deserve our respect.

A second conclusion is that individuals who vote (early and on Election Day) share an equal responsibility along with the candidates they support. Politicians should be judged on their ability to perform a specific task, on their merits, and not on the rumors that float about them.

On the other hand, we should admit that our vote isn’t always cast for the best candidate. There’s always an underlying reason and there’s always a dialogue to prove it.

Woman: “You voted for him? He didn’t even go to college. Don’t you know his opponent has a degree, an MBA.”

Second woman: “Yes I voted for him. I voted for him because he’s my sister-in-law’s brother-inlaw. So I voted for him.”

Woman: “So if your sister-inlaw’s uncle’s second cousin ran you’d vote for him too?”

Second woman: “Yes, because he’s my sister-in-law’s uncle’s second cousin. And he doesn’t have an MBA either.”

So I guess the politicians aren’t the only ones with a vested interest on Election Day. When it comes to playing politics, it seems we’re all involved.

Still, there’s the question of Tuesday’s election night’s results.

While the election unveiled some major surprises, the good news is that the ideas laid forth by our founding fathers remain intact. Our Constitution remains well preserved and the will of the masses will always be the victor.

So, the next time you consider bashing your neighborhood politician think about your contribution to the political state of affairs. It seems the politicians aren’t the only ones playing politics. That’s the other side of the ballot!