Next Tuesday, February 5th, New Yorkers will be a part of history voting in the Presidential Primary and whatever your political views are; this is the time to make them heard. This year’s election will be of significant history as the field of candidates is as diverse as ever; a woman, an Afro-American, a mayor, a former war hero, a minister, etc., while the issues are just as diverse; the Iraq War, Homeland Security, the economy, affordable health care and affordable college tuition.

Mitt Romney

Mitt Romney, former Governor of Massachusetts, came to national prominence as a successful CEO of companies like Staples and was credited for helping save the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics after being marred in controversy before he took over. He has labeled himself as a Washington outsider who can bring his management skills of resurrecting companies to the White House.
He has received criticism from those who feel he parses his words and is too busy pandering to special interest groups like the NRA and pro-life advocates. There is also concern in the Republican Party that his Mormon faith will not sit well with the evangelical wing of the party.

Barack Obama

Barack Obama is a junior senator from Illinois whose campaign has focused on Hope and Change. While he has faced criticism for not having specifics to back up his rhetoric, Obama’s dynamic style and passion for his cause has garnered much support among young people and the minority community.

Healthcare: Obama will create a national health insurance plan based off the plan offered to members of congress. He will allow those currently enrolled in employee plans to continue using the health insurance they have while working to make those plans more affordable. Obama will also ensure that no one is turned away because of illness or pre-existing conditions. Employers who do not provide insurance to their employees will be required to pay into the national plan. Obama will increase transparency in medical costs, provide incentives for excellence in patient care and increase focus on disease management and preventative medicine.