Who to vote for?

How do you know what candidate or party to vote for? Christian leaders should not tell you how to vote. Instead, they should invite Christians to consider some questions that could help them decide for themselves. Investing this effort is energy well spent as votes have long-term consequences.

Questions for reflection as you prepare to vote

  • Politics is not just about the will of the majority. Will the parties or candidates work for the common good of all? The sick, the vulnerable, young or old, rich or poor, all regions, indigenous or migrant communities or other minorities, the ignored?
  • Politics is not just about the next few years. What is the long-term vision of your candidate and/or party? What kind of society could today’s promises bring in the future?
  • Are politicians using “Christian” language? If so, what does it really mean to them – in their lives, as well as in their political promises? How does that match your understanding of the Bible?
  • How do candidates speak about others? Is their language respectful?
  • Do the candidates engage in real debate or just recite their party mantra?
  • It is important to be proud of our country, both past and present. But even the most splendid country will not be able to survive in isolation. How do the candidates intend to improve relationships between other nations (and, where relevant, within the European Union) and collaborate with them?
  • Power can be dangerous. Since we are all sinners, power should be spread widely. Therefore, what is the attitude of the parties / candidates towards democracy, including media & judicial independence?
  • Do you normally give your vote to one party or candidate? Are they still worthy of your support?  How do they measure up to a wide range of biblical values?
  • What is the attitude of the parties / candidates towards freedom of religion for all, including in public? How will they make sure that people of all faiths and none can live together as good neighbours?
  • What is the attitude of the parties / candidates to the most vulnerable, including the unborn, the sick, those with disabilities and the dying? What impact will their worldview and priorities have on these people?
  • How supportive are the parties / candidates of flourishing families based on lifelong heterosexual marriage and also community cohesion?
  • How do the parties / candidates balance the importance of protecting the nation and continent from pandemics, crime or terrorism and ensuring human rights & democracy?
  • How do the parties / candidates view God’s creation? Where in their priorities is the need to ensure the protection of the beauty and sustainability of the natural treasure of the nation and the world?
  • How do the parties / candidates intend to assist economic flourishing, ensuring good education, opportunities and fairness?
  • How do the parties / candidates regard truth, including combatting exaggeration, scapegoating or other fake news? How open are they to engage in constructive political debate, including interaction with the public?

 

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