With Rhode Island currently experiencing economic woes, and an impending election on the horizon Rhody must consider what each candidate offers to them specifically. In today’s political climate, it can be dangerous to conform to a bipartisan system by solely voting left or right. As a people, the decision can be looked at as simple: Do we elect the socially capable liberal, or the savvy economic-minded conservative.
In no way is this an easy decision however based on the needs of our state, we can make a responsible decision. It is important to remain constantly aware that the economic downturn is exacerbated by social problems, while social problems are often created by economic downturn.
Rhode Island initially built its economy on manufacturing, production, fishing and exporting jewelry–many of these such organizations have since been outsourced or bankrupted. Also, governmental regulation has significantly hindered industries such as fishing and manufacturing. Thus, the employment rate has plummeted while the majority of jobs being held are government jobs which require excessive taxation to provide.
The paradox is simple. Rhode Island must determine what was the initial cause of this economic downturn. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Once we can determine whether the social issues stem from economic downturn or vice-versa, then we can decide which presidential candidate offers the most potential in November.
Furthermore, we must continue to build up our economic diversity by either returning to the industries that once contributed to the settling of Rhode Island or creating new industries. Currently unemployment in Rhode Island is still experiencing a negative growth rate. Rather than over taxing an already unemployed/underemployed market is clearly not the answer. It is going to prove crucial that Rhode Island creates more jobs that do not operate within the government in order to flow income more evenly, and also assure that not all taxes are spent on government salaries.
With all of this in mind, I assert that this election will prove to be of great consequence in Rhode Island. Whether the current president is replaced or holds office, we will see a change in the metaphorical tide here in the Ocean State.
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