money where my mouth is
Tonight I contributed to a political campaign for the first time in my life. About a week ago, I received my new voter registration card (I had to change from being an independent to register with a party in order to participate in the primary, since my state holds closed primaries). Last weekend, I volunteered some time to help with a voter registration drive. I’ve been dropping voter registration forms on every bus I’ve traveled on this week. I have a button pinned around the strap of my purse. I have a bumper sticker taped to the back window of my car. I’m looking forward to seeing how I can pitch in next weekend to help my candidate of choice with my time. But I decided, after some mulling it over, that part of the benefit of being responsible with my money is that I can spend money without guilt - I can make a contribution to a political campaign without worrying how to pay a bill, or thinking the money could have went towards debt. I did use a credit card that I’ll have to pay off by the end of the month, but I kept the amount modest enough so that I should be able to pay it without sacrificing my own personal goals for my upcoming paychecks. It felt good to press the button and financially support the candidate I favor.
That’s great! I try to give to campaigns in election years too. This year, I set up a whole budget line for it. I’m a big believer in candidates that get lots of small, individual donations (as opposed to those who get bundles of money from a few companies and wealthy people) and I like to be one of their donors!
Comment by ms. m&p — March 18, 2008 @ 9:56 pm
Good for you! Now that’s how you walk the walk AND talk the talk. I wish I could support my candidate of choice with my time or even money, but it’s against my employer’s ethical standards. Due to my position, I have implied authority to influence a political stance, so I’d lose my license/certification and potentially be fired.
Therefore, I have to zip my lips and sit on my hands in anticipation of Nov 4th to exercise my right to vote.
Comment by Single Ma — March 18, 2008 @ 11:13 pm
I gave as well. $75 in total so far.
Comment by chitown — March 19, 2008 @ 4:20 pm
@ single ma - DAYUM I see you are G14 classified person. LOL
Sister ant, it’s good you’re doing a patriotic duty by sticking by your candidate.
Comment by Moneymonk — March 19, 2008 @ 6:15 pm
In my state, there’s a tax CREDIT for political contributions up to $100. (This is different than the charitible contribution deduction). I get to feel both patriotic AND frugal!
Wow - I should investigate this!
Comment by Grace — March 21, 2008 @ 5:04 pm