I’m a Democrat But I Always Vote Republican

Originally written January 15, 2008

I’m a Democrat. Yes, you heard me correctly. I’m a Democrat. I don’t feel like a Democrat. I don’t talk like a Democrat. But I am a Democrat. I was raised by liberal Democratic parents in the 60’s and at 54 years of age; I still have not changed my affiliation.

So why do I always vote for Republicans? Why do I champion conservative causes on my radio show? And if I champion those causes, why not just become a Republican.? Or, if there are elements in both parties that I relate to, why not register as an Independent? If I am not really a Democrat anymore, why call myself a Democrat?

Well, I know the answer you’re expecting: The Democratic Party is no longer what it used to be. You figure I was proud of Presidents like John Kennedy and Franklin Roosevelt. And you expect me to talk about how the Marxist, Leftist, Politically Correct Thought Police have hijacked my party. In fact, those dudes are a quick end to any party. You also anticipate some sappy, melancholy drivel about how I dream of my party returning to its once rich heritage. Some of that is true enough I suppose. But I must confess, I have a reason that is less of an ideology and more of a strategy.

When I speak on college campuses, people assume immediately that if I am a Christian apologist I must also be a Republican. After all, Christians think Jesus is a Republican. Right? And can these same Christians point to Democrats in the Bible? Sure they can, Democrats like Judas, Pontius Pilate, and Pharaoh of Egypt. This is the way Republicans are perceived and some of the perception is accurate.

But when I am identified as a Democrat, everything changes. Take for instance, the subject of abortion. When a Republican claims to be Pro-Life, the know-it-all student responds by saying, “Well, Duh! Of course you’re Pro- Life. I’ll bet all you Dundy Fundy Republicans want to suppress women’s rights.” There is nothing to even talk about. If you’re a Republican, they supposedly know everything they need to know about you.

Not so when I speak to the students as a Democrat. Now they are intrigued. Now they are caught off guard.

“Wait,” they say. “You’re a Democrat and you’re Pro- Life? Why?’

“Good question,” I reply.

And then we have an real conversation. We discuss the issue philosophically and ethically. We have an actual discussion.

These days, a genuine dialogue is worth its weight in gold. Two people of opposite positions actually listening to each other? Who would have thought it possible?

Anyway, that’s why I call myself a Democrat, even though I’m really a Republican wearing a fake moustache.