Barack Obama (D) and Mitt Romney (R)are campaigning for the 2012 election in an extremely polarized climate made worse by divisive issues and defined by party affiliation. Elections have issues that define the race and drive campaign tactics, which include the economic crisis and healthcare reforms. Because of unparalleled partisanship, parties are unwilling to compromise on issues and are appealing to voters to support policies that align with their priorities. Since the 2009-2011 recession, the economy has been an enduring theme in politics as leaders make efforts to balance the budget. Obama is in favor of repealing Bush tax cuts, which qualify only for households earning over $250,000 annually. Obama views a combination of tax cuts directed toward the middle class and stimulus spending as the most effective measures in the short term for repairing the economy. His long term objectives are cutting spending and increasing taxes for those with higher incomes. Romney’s position is to lower all corporate tax rates to 25% and to make the Bush tax cuts permanent. His goal is to build a strong economy by strengthening the business sector through cutting corporate taxes and decreasing government regulation, in addition to decreasing discretionary government spending by 5% providing that security is not impacted. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), commonly referred to as Obamacare, brought the necessity of implementing healthcare reforms to the forefront of the campaign. The contention of this issue derives from how to reform the healthcare system. Obama reiterated that his healthcare bill will protect patients through denying insurance agencies the ability to cancel coverage if a patient becomes sick and eliminating the ability for insurance agencies to deny coverage to those with pre-existing conditions. These reforms require that individuals buy health insurance, enforced with a fine for noncompliance. Romney’s position on healthcare reform is to encourage individuals to buy their own health insurance. Instead of relying on an employer, individuals select and are responsible for insuring themselves. Romney created the blueprints for PPACA by passing similar legislation in Massachusetts and differentiates between the concepts of a national healthcare policy versus state-implemented reforms, favoring the latter and promising to repeal PPACA. Contention between parties regarding controversial policies exists in all elections, as evidenced by the reaction to the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell (DADT). With the recent repeal of DADT, which allows homosexuals to openly serve in the military, Obama took the opportunity to publicly solidify his support for same-sex marriage, gaining both staunch support and criticism. Romney supported DADT and stated that while he opposes same-sex marriage, he is tolerant of legal unions. An election issue also consistently escalating tension within parties is abortion. On the anniversary of Roe v. Wade in 2011, Obama stated, “I am committed to protecting this constitutional right. I also remain committed to policies, initiatives and programs that help prevent unintended pregnancies, support pregnant women and mothers, encourage healthy relationships and promote adoption.” Romney has opposed Roe v. Wade and has said that states should have the power to ban abortion, which has caused some voters to view his position on abortion as inconsistent with his political career prior to the running for presidential election. Policies in the Middle East affect the election profoundly, particularly concerning Iran and Iraq. Obama considers direct diplomacy to be the most effective position towards Iran, combined with tightening economic sanctions and encouraging the international community to also participate in sanctions. Romney emphasized that Iran having nuclear capability is unacceptable and will be deterred militarily should diplomatic, economic and political options fail. With regard to Iraq, Obama opposed the Iraqi invasion and increase of troops but displayed inconsistencies concerning the timeline of ending military operations, postponed to 2014. Romney has stated that it is in the best interest of our country to continue operations to build a strong, democratic government in Iraq. The outcome of this election will determine policies that will extend well beyond a four year term.
