2010 Louisiana Senate Race Vitter Vs Melancon: Mud Fight on the Bayou

American politics has always been a rough affair. In the early days of our nation, politicians in debate would often resort to fighting with canes and even the occasional duel-to-the-death. Minus the physical violence, the 2010 race for Louisiana Senator between David Vitter and Charlie Melancon isn't much different. Both David Vitter (the Republican incumbent) and Charlie Melancon (the Democrat challenger) are at each other's throats to the point that we're often reminded that the lesser of two evils, is still evil.

2010 Louisiana Senate Race: Mud fight on the bayou- He says/He says
David Vitter has a decent web-marketing approach, as long as you consider trash-talking decent. Melancon is not much different. While Vitter does a great job of pointing out Melancon supports Pelosi and President Obama on most issues, in a time when Obama's approval ratings are the lowest, Melancon does a pretty effective job reminding prospective voters of Vitter's past involvement with a prostitution ring, which he'd likely just as soon forget. Would someone please be so kind as to ask these two esteemed gentlemen to take their stone throwing outside of our big glass house?

2010 Louisiana Senate Race: Mud fight on the bayou- What are the positions?
In the middle of what looks to be such typical, high school, popularity contest antics, we easily forget to ask where the candidates actively stand on issues. A little research goes a long way:

David Vitter: According to his website, Vitter, the incumbent states publicly he's pro second-amendment, pro business, and pro-life, as well as against wasteful government spending, against tax increases, against illegal immigration, and he promises to fight what's known as "Card Check."

Charlie Melancon: According to his website, Mr Melancon also states his positions to be quite similar, only with a bit more focus on environmental controls, a supportive stance on health care reform, and is pro-labor unions. In all fairness, he also mentions support of our veterans, and keeping promises made to those who've served.

2010 Louisiana Senate Race: Mud fight on the bayou
Both men express an interest in coastal restoration, this is Louisiana, after all. My summary of either candidate's positions are not exhaustive, of course. Undecided voters will need to research each candidate's stance on the issues, and decide for themselves. My point is, we must hear what each is claiming beyond the mud-slinging. Something as important as election of our representatives in government must not be left to emotional, knee-jerk reactions. Now, more than ever before, we residents of the Great State of Louisiana must remember to "read between the lines," and not be swept up in pure emotion.

Sources:

David Vitter's campaign site
Charlie Melancon's campaign site
"Card Check."
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