Now, Now, Let's Not Get Ahead of Ourselves...

Apparently Evan and I have much more in common then I think we often realize. My adoration for Pelosi originates from my own interest in moderation and reason. Because the government has held such an overly conservative view throughout Bush's term, and especially in recent years, I see Pelosi's introduction into governmental leadership as a valuable tool toward stability. I too do not associate myself with either party specifically, and find myself voting on issues rather than parties. In fact, I would say that the majority of Americans connect with each party while considering specific issues. In light of this, I see Pelosi and Bush as the bookends to more moderate governmental decisions that will relate better to the greater American population.
Specifically, I beleive some clarification is needed regarding my comments on Pelosi's discipline and steadfast nature. I highlighted these traits because I think it it vital for groundbreaking women to break free of the confines of patriarchal society, to speak their mind and not fear the fact that they are surrounded by stereotypically dominate males. In order for Pelosi to truly open doors for future women politicians then she must embrace any characteristics that place her at an equal level with her colleagues. After all, men in politics are stereotypically established as disciplined and steadfast.
Furthermore, while I think moderation is a wonderful course for the American society and economy, I consider myself an extreme proponent of equality opportunity for women within the government. And while Evan asked we avoid allowing biology to "blind one’s reason," I think that gender representation is an issue in our government that cannot be ignored. We should discuss biology. While I am not wholeheartedly supporting any female who attempts to run for political office, I do think strong politicians, like Pelosi, represent important steps toward a more democratic government. After hundreds of years of societal issues being decided by a slim portion of the population, I believe that any effort to integrate less-represented factions of society into government should be celebrated. Obviously, this support and similar logic follow candidates from any non-white, non-Christian, non-male portion of the population. A prime example of this is Condoleezza Rice. While I do not agree with the Bush administration often, I was happy to hear that she was serving as Secretary of State because she was a woman and African American. Her values and political opinions were not my first reaction, but instead came after the realization that any increase in female African American visibility in government is a positive step forward. I know that this invites criticism, but until the country has a much more representative government I beleive that any gender, race, and class are vital issues in our elections. Acknowledging the lack of representation is the only way to truly begin to solve our problem.

Overall, my adoration for Nancy Pelosi comes from two of my main political views. First, I believe that Pelosi provides a valuable balancing to the conservative presidency. Second, the presence of strong, influential female politicians is a step toward a more representative, democratic government.