I am now seeing more and more how this presidential election has the power to really shake up the town. As a newsperson, getting to witness daily occurrences and follow government decisions from the top all the way down, I feel that my decision for one presidential candidate has grown to be clear-cut. This will be an easy vote for me.

It is one thing to just hear both presidential candidates speak during debates about really broad topics and issues, and another to actually see how their plans will flesh out within the area we call home. How will the topics they debate over change the problems we have here in Selma, is a question I have asked myself throughout these debates and agenda proposals.

Several instances and current events here have solidified my choice for president in 2012 such as a government decision that is threatening jobs at American Apparel and also our local government’s choice to privatize several sectors.

One of my favorite political authors, Fareed Zakaria once wrote, “In a very weak economy when you say ‘cut government spending’ what you mean is you’re laying off school teachers and you’re de-funding various programs that put money into the economy. This means you have more unemployed people that then draw unemployment benefits and don’t pay taxes.”

I would agree with Mr. Zakaria except for the fact that where our government cuts sectors, an opportunity — a better opportunity — arises for the private sector to take over. Also I think when you cut government spending, you do not take teaching jobs but instead, cut needless spending in other areas.

It was recently announced that the federal government, who purchases some military uniforms from American Apparel, is now considering handing this job over to a Canadian-based company. This naturally would put 100-200 or so Selmians out of work because we are now shipping government related jobs abroad for a cheaper price.

Couldn’t we have cut some things from the Department of Agriculture first? They spend a reported $8 million a year promoting awareness for shrubs and plants.

The premise for this election boils down to — not a presidential preference — but voting for what theology you believe will benefit our economy. Do you think we should leave it to a large federal government to take us back to the top, or do you feel the competitive private market is a little more conditioned for competition?

If you are still on the fence about whether you prefer big or small government — consider the Selma City Council just voted to hand the city’s waste management system to a private company. This will cost no jobs, but also stop the city from losing money. What if this healthy transition happened on a larger, more national scale?