Modern & Morally Centered

We live in interesting political times. Both of the major U.S. political parties are working hard to 'size up' the electorate in the post-Obama election period. The latest identified voting group? 'Whole Foods Republicans (& Independents)'. Apparently, existence of this group is news to someone. I find that humorous, because I am a member of this group, and I have been out here voting for a while now.

We seem to have them perplexed. They can't imagine that a progressive lifestyle can fit with conservatism....(say it ain't so)....but this is what they are finding in many of us out here. We are college educated, live in urban areas in modern spaces, walk more places than we drive, and like to shop at Whole Foods Market (that bastion of liberal granola heads). We enjoy diversity, would never tell a racial or homophobic joke, and have friends and colleagues from a spectrum of backgrounds.

And we vote conservatively.

WHAT?

Yep, it's true. We rely on logic (not emotion) and were raised with solid conservative values. Many of us, despite our 'modern and trendy' lifestyle, actually go to church (oh my!) and enjoy a level of spirituality as we live 'progressively'. Imagine that!

We are independent-minded, believe in free markets and limited government, love God and country, respect our military....all the while buying our tofu, gluten-free goods and organic dairy products at the local Whole Foods Market. And we may have ridden there on our bicycles. Puzzling, isn't it?

Another shocker? Most of us like Sarah Palin. A lot. Can you believe it?

I laugh at all the kerfuffle over this 'new group' because there are a ton of us out here, and we've been here for a very long time. They just didn't see us, and they couldn't imagine such an animal. That combination couldn't possibly exist! Yet it does, and in droves. A high percentage of the people I know would fall into this category. We're educated, we're modern, we're progressive and we've retained our moral bearings. Not a bad combination if you ask me.

Nice to finally get the spotlight. And about time.