In his recent column, “Dobson’s refusal.” Colter Hettich states that he cannot think of a reason to not vote, nor can he understand what he calls Dr. Dobson’s “irresponsibility” in publicly announcing that decision. I believe I can shed some light on both questions.
To the question of there being occasion to not vote, I believe Mr. Hettich is mistaken. From an American perspective, he is right. There is no reason not to vote. Even if you don’t like any of the candidates, you might as well go with the lesser of what you may feel to be two evils.
Dr. Dobson, however, is not coming from a strictly American perspective. He is also coming from a Christian perspective, and that brings a slew of other considerations to the table.
One thing that led Dr. Dobson to say he will not support Sen. McCain is the senator’s personal support of homosexual marriage. As Dr. Dobson has spent significant time fighting against such action, how could he in good conscience cast a vote that would fly in the face of his convictions?
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or even a political strategist to realize that Sens. Clinton and Obama hold myriad positions with which Dr. Dobson strongly disagrees. How can he vote for any of the available candidates and maintain any degree of integrity?
To the question of his “irresponsibility” in announcing his decision, I believe there is a very Biblical reason for him to do so. Isaiah 30-31 describes Assyria rising up against Israel.
Seeing the imminent threat, Israel (in classic form) turned to Egypt, a pagan nation, to save them rather than trusting in the God that had carried them through so much. This passage proclaims “Woe!” to those who would trust in the strength of men rather than the strength of God.
Dr. Dobson is standing by his principles and trusting God to handle the outcome. In announcing his decision, he is calling on other Christians to similarly trust God. Given the current political situation, I don’t see that he has any other choice.
Jeremy L. Pond
Alumnus, Class of ’07
Fort Collins, Colo.
jlp04b@acu.edu
