I read dooce on a regular basis, and I often ensure that when I see that there is a new post from dooce in my newsfeed, that I have plenty of time to give it the attention it deserves. This is probably the only website I do this with, but that is another tangent all on it’s own.

Today as I was reading my rss feeds list, I saw the usual 4 new posts messages highlight, and after making sure that I had completed the task I was doing, got myself a cup of coffee and a biscuit (cookie to my American readers) and settled down.

As usual, I enjoyed the photos of Chuck and Coco, the stylish post about some artwork with Chuck as the muse, but my favourite one was about the ongoing American Elections.

People consistantly ask me about what party I associate with and who I am voting for (dual-citizenship has its advantages) and I always explain to them that I do not classify myself as a party member. I like a bit of both parties, and refuse to pigeon-hole myself - a bit like how I deal with religion (again, another tangent for another time).

I agree whole-heartedly with the opinions that Heather has given about this, and want to add a few of my own.

America needs change, and I honestly hope and believe that with this election, voters will embrace change, the right changes, for the right reasons. I do feel that Sarah Palin is not educated or prepared enough for what she is trying to take on, and will only be taken advantage of.

Yes, I want a female in office, but it needs to be the RIGHT PERSON for the job, not just a female. A prime example is what happened to Great Britain when Thatcher was elected. Had she been male I do not think she would have been elected (and again, my anti-Thatcher-isms are for another time and another post).

I am curious how other ex-pats are viewing the electoral process.

Although I am very greatful that we do not get all of the propaganda-esque mudslinging like they do all over American television about the candidates, but I cannot but help feel as if I am missing a vital part of the election.

Is mudslinging an acceptable political norm now, and how do you feel about it?