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Throughout the election, the News & Record’s Voterspeak panel debated issues from how they felt about city bonds to moves they would make in a presidential campaign.
They asked questions of candidates for governor and senator. They researched on the Web and found links with their insights on politics and the election.
Like much of Guilford County and the nation, they followed the 2008 election while war, economic crisis and those long — sometimes bitter — campaigns pushed from all sides.
For their final topic, the panel is looking back on the election and forward to the politicians taking office.

Responses are excerpted below. Go here to see full responses.

“ I hope and pray president-elect Obama will fulfill his promise to be a unifier. Will his administration help this nation move toward unity or toward policies which undermine the foundations upon which the United States of America were built (faith, family, freedom)? Time will tell.”
—Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican

“ My greatest fear is that there is a sector of folks that will continue to hold their hand out for assistance while the rest of us work to contribute. Maybe we need to get back to basics and teach our young that we should work for what we have and that government is not in place to support our wants, but help us in our need.”
—Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican

“ As most Americans believe, the country is going in the wrong direction and whenever something is going wrong the best thing to do is change something. Doing things the same way when they are not working is never the answer.
“I am glad that I have been able to witness this historic event. No one knows what the future holds, but I think people will look back at this period and realize that Americans made the right choice.”
—Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated

“This presidential campaign forced Americans to really examine where we were as it relates to issues of race, sex and class. I’m hopeful because, I think that as a whole, we voted for the America of the future; an America that is a little closer to being the one that the founders said it could be.”
—Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat

“Our horribly failed experiment with having a drinking-buddy-chief-executive has left a legacy of illimitable incompetence, compensated for with arrogance that we will be hard-pressed to overcome in the near term. Which segues nicely into the impact upon our future generations. They are going to ask, and rightfully so, 'What the hell were you thinking?’
“ Our system of government is not broken by any stretch of anyone’s imagination. Badly bruised, to be sure, but not broken. We are Americans, after all, and we are capable of astounding accomplishments, boundless compassion and dogged determination. We still enjoy a way of life that is the envy of the planet and I see no end to it.”
—Mike Kelly, 60, Republican

“ We have been part of the problem due to lack of interest and action, and we must become part of the solution. I hope the spirit of social activism of the campaign will carry over to the next four years.”
—Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67,
Democrat

“Wednesday — the day after — was one of my best days as a teacher, and I know it will remain one of the best for years and years to come, because I was able to show my kids that all the encouraging things they hear from me, other teachers, and folks at home really do mean something. We watched the concession and acceptance speeches. And we watched a documentary on the Birmingham Children’s March with information about the Bloody Sunday march in Selma. They could see how far this country has come, even though there are still plenty who disagree with or even fear what this election will bring.
“I certainly hope that we have learned what a little hard work can bring about. I also hope that voters in my age demographic and younger can now see how incredibly important their involvement is, regardless of party affiliation.”
—Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated

“I will start with my four stepchildren. They are American in every way except citizenship. It was thrilling for them to be witness and participants in this election. These children, global Muslims, feel they are now part of America’s future. To take pride in their future country is the most valuable asset for any citizen. They will tell their children this election is when they truly felt American — because America elected a global citizen as its president.
“I have never viewed Obama as a savior. He will make mistakes.
“But this change gives America an opportunity for global redemption, and indeed, it may be the last opportunity we have. This historical moment begs America to embrace this change, new traditions, and accept that certain discomfort is always a prelude to improvement.”
—Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34,
Democrat

“On a national scale we must all support our new president, as long as he supports us. If we see a steady, evenhanded approach to domestic and foreign policy, then support will naturally flow. If we see policies that inhibit growth, transfers wealth from one segment to another and generally go against the entrepreneurial spirit that built this country, this will be a one-term president.”
—Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican

“ Will my fellow liberals temporarily set aside our issues of principle that enrage principled conservatives so we can solve practical problems? Is it foolish to expect those who booed at McCain’s gracious concession speech to forgive our past excesses so we can work together? Dare I hope that those of us infuriated at the Bush agenda will also forgive him for the sake of our nation’s future?
“I’m willing. Who’ll join me?”
—Ruth Mary Weston, 54,
Democrat

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel is making predictions, and we hope you'll make some too. Read their guesses for Election Day results, make your own calls in the comments section, and see how your picks stack up against the actual winners on Tuesday.

QUESTION: “This one comes in three parts. First, one office anywhere on the ballot and make your prediction on who will win and why. Second, choose race from these three - president, governor or U.S. senator - and say who will win and why. Third, make a call on a ballot initiative such as one of the Greensboro bonds or the quarter-cent sales tax and say why you think it will pass or fail.”

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: "Roy Cooper will win attorney general because he properly diffused the highly public Duke lacrosse case and handled his office respectably well.
"Pat McCrory will win the governor’s race for his strong leadership and high profile as mayor of Charlotte.
"The Parks and Recreation bond will not pass because it didn’t pass when the economy was seemingly in better shape. It’s definitely not a necessity during lean times."

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: "I predict that McCain will win by a very slight margin with a recount. The American “backbone” will come through at the last moment to prove the media wrong on poll counts and issues. We aren’t ready to destroy the America our forefathers intended it to be.
"I think Dole will win in the senate race. Kay Hagan’s record in North Carolina of not being able to help balance the state budget, her meeting with the “Godless” group without explanation and her incredible wealth will make North Carolina voters uneasy.
"Steve Troxler will again be elected the Secretary of Agriculture. He is a “hands on” farmer and has served this state well in this position."

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: "For governor I think Pat McCrory will win the election with a small margin even with the predictions of a strong turnout of democratic voters. I think Perdue is vulnerable because North Carolinians do want a change from the same politicians who have been in office for a while, but can’t really tell what they have done while in office. Furthermore, Perdue’s lack of participation in the first debate probably affected some voters' thoughts about Perdue.
"For Senate I think Kay Hagan will win the election. I think North Carolinians realize that Dole doesn’t have much of a connection to North Carolina anymore. If there was some chance of her winning I think she ruined it with her attack ad on Hagan claiming Hagan did not believe in God. After the negative publicity from HER ad she still considers it a legitimate ad. This showed the nation a piece of her character and most people regardless of political affiliation thought the ad went to far.
"The parks and recreation facility bond probably is not going to pass. With the economy like it is at this time most people will probably look at having a swimming pool and an extra park as an unnecessary expense."

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: "I think Kay Hagan will defeat Elizabeth Dole in the Senate race. The "Godless" ad probably tipped the scales for Hagan if they hadn't tipped already. I think that Obama will win the presidential election by a significant margin because he represents the most significant shift from the policies of the Bush administration.
"There will be a large number of Obama votes that come from people who haven't fully been factored into the polls because they are not traditionally considered to be likely voters. I don't think that any of the bonds will pass simply because economic times are so hard."

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: "I am going to throw caution to the wind and predict that ol’ ship of state, Howard Coble, will be the 6th District congressman. Why? Because he’s Howard and one doesn’t vote against an institution. More to the point, Ms. Bratton has not done jack to convince us to do otherwise.
"For senator, the magic eight ball says Elizabeth (Don’t Call Me Liddie) Dole has put herself squarely behind it with this last screed calling into question Ms. Hagan’s religious faith. A pundit wrote that when a candidate uses religion in a campaign they usually don’t have a prayer. Score a close one for Kay Hagan.
"The War Memorial initiative will fail. The taxpayers of Greensboro know this facility benefits a small percentage of the community. And while having the auditorium and its wonderful programs is a cultural star in our crown, now is not the time to drop fifty mil into the orchestra pit. When this city is again flush with discretionary monies, then we can refurbish the War Memorial."

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: "I predict that Kay Hagan will defeat Elizabeth Dole, whose performance as U.S. Senator has been lackluster at best. For governor, Pat McCrory has run an effective campaign against Beverly Perdue, who hasn't capitalized on her many years in government. Although the sales tax increase initiative didn't pass before, it has a better chance this time due to uncertainty in the economy."

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: "I think Roy Cooper will easily win the Attorney General race. I think the governor's race is still very much a toss-up, so I'll say I hope Perdue wins. I will be very, very surprised if all of the bonds pass, but I think the Parks & Rec bond in particular doesn't stand a chance. "

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: "Predictions are tough in this environment. These are worth exactly what you’re paying for them.
"Dole retains her seat. I don’t believe Hagan has the necessary name recognition outside of the Triad to unseat an incumbent.
"Quarter-cent tax increase fails due to distrust of County Commissioners."

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: "Howard Coble will win by a large, but smaller then usual, margin over Teresa Sue Bratton. He’s a good guy even if you disagree with some of his positions, and we usually keep good guys even when the challenger is a good gal.
"Obama’s the next president by a nose in the popular vote. Exit polling will show a big lead that narrows as the night goes on. Could be the next case of a Supreme Court or House of Representatives appointment.
"I’m betting the 'nothing-passes' exacta on the bonds. People will pick up pennies in the parking lot now, and they used to let the dimes roll away. We’re not in the mood."

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel talks about making good with the losing party.

QUESTION: “The campaigns for president have been rough, especially considering the ads and attacks from both parties. If the candidate you want for president loses, what do you want the winner to do? How can he reach across the aisle? What would he need to do to mend fences and lead this country?"

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: "I'd like to see whoever wins work toward establishing independent regulation of government-backed financial institutions; i.e., unannounced audits of financials, drastically reduce salary/pension/severance caps for CEO's, limit fringe benefits, etc.
"There also needs to be independent reviews of government research on global warming, medicine, health insurance, bioethics, and immigration. Eliminate the bureaucracy behind the 'expert' panels and let those with expertise in these areas from both sides of the political spectrum speak openly.
"Much more rides on this election than most think. The Democratic party is doing everything they can so they won't have to reach across the aisle, aiming for the filibuster-proof margin in the Senate and buying prime-time to gain control of the executive and legislative branches. If that happens, they will have two years of unfettered power and will probably try to fill the judicial branch with activist judges. If McCain wins, he has proven himself a man who puts country before party, so he will most likely reach across the aisle to work with Democrats to resolve the economic situation while keeping America safe from terrorism."

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: "If my candidate of choice for president does not win I would want the opposition to rethink redistribution of wealth. It would be unfair for young people to believe that "big government" will provide for all their needs. Why would young people strive to be a success in life if someone else worked hard and long to succeed for others to share in their wealth. I think that is sending the wrong message to our young citizens. He would need to know the difference between a "privilege" and a "right" as described in our constitution and convey that to the base of voters that elected him. No one should depend on a "hand out" as a way of life. Redirect the ones that are there now and educate the ones that might grow to depend on hand outs in the future."

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: "Trying to heal the party lines is something that will be very hard to do in a short period of time. One thing that the winning candidate can do is to remember that he is an individual and not tie EVERYTHING into what the party wants. Another thing is to advocate for compromises to bring the parties together."

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: "If I were running the Republican campaign, I would develop a clear vision about where they wanted to take the country as it relates to the economy, energy policy and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Then I would focus all of their efforts on trumpeting that vision instead of talking about Joe the plumber and continuing to try to come up with things to make people afraid of Obama."

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: "The campaigns waged by this year’s combatants have been tame relative to, say, that of 1828 in which the morality of Jackson’s wife was questioned, or to the “Daisy Girl” of 1964 or more recently to the “Swiftboating” of Kerry. Obama and McCain have inflicted minor injuries on one another, really. Certainly nothing that cannot be overcome if not completely forgotten.
"I think that the horrendous state of our economy, strangely enough, will serve as a salve to the wounds sustained during the run-up to the election. This may seem counterintuitive, but the fact is we have a hell of lot more to worry about than if some pol had his feelings hurt.
"One talks of mending fences. America has more than just fences that need fixing. The winner must take immediate measures to fix our economy. And in so doing, he will necessarily have to enlist those members of the other party. If the new president cannot sublimate party politics in order to right our floundering economy then he has no hope of leading this country anywhere."

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: “If John McCain is elected president, I hope that he will find the best foreign policy and economic advisors, regardless of party. I would like for him to work with Congress to allow the Bush tax cuts to expire in 2010 and find a way for present illegal immigrants to become U.S. citizens while securing our borders. We need to become one country again after the long and bitter campaign season."

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: "If Obama wins the election, I would expect McCain to put to use all of his positive leadership qualities and skills - most of which have had to be shelved during the latter parts of the campaign - to ensure his fellow Republicans' cooperation with the new, Democrat-led government. He has talked all along about his experience "reaching across the aisle," and whether or not we have doubted that record all along, in the event of his defeat, McCain should take the opportunity to continue that kind of leadership.
"Since North Carolina is still considered a battleground state, though, I thought I'd try to look at this question from the other side, too. So, if McCain wins, I think Obama should use the incredible momentum his campaign has built up to keep people involved in the political and governmental machines. Civic responsibility doesn't stop with voting. And even if another Bush Republican does take the oath of office, there will more than likely be a Democrat-led, if not majority, Congress. Usually that means more time wasted as the two sides dig in, but I think Obama is the kind of leader who can discourage people, including elected representatives, from simply blocking the other side's way, and instead encourage cooperation. Naturally, I would expect him to lead by example."

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: "If Obama (my preferred candidate) isn't elected, I would hope McCain would be McCain again. I'd want him to distance his administration from all the Bush cronies. I'd like to see some of Obama's people in the new administration as an act of bipartisan good faith.
"Certainly, I'd want to see more attention paid to the middle class. McCain's discourse on the average person doesn't go beyond Joe the Plumber I'd really like to see huge diversity in his advisors regarding health care. Personally, I would feel deeply alienated from his administration with Palin as VP. I hope he would clearly define her role to be as minimal as possible."

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: "There used to be this thing called sportsmanship. It meant playing by the rules as hard as you could. It meant treating your opponent with the same respect, win or lose. No gloating, no taunting, just a handshake and a look in the eye.
"Sportsmanship keeps you cool-headed so you can analyze the game for strengths and weaknesses. It concentrates your energy for constructive use instead of dissipating it on excessive celebration or depression. And, perhaps most importantly, it prevents making implacable enemies in case you end up on the same team later.
"If each of us chooses sportsmanlike conduct, regardless of who wins, we’ll show our new leader the way to really get together and solve problems we agree on."

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel talks about the McCain campaign.

QUESTION: “As polls show Sen. Barack Obama taking a wider lead over McCain, what would you do if you were running the Republican’s campaign to improve his position in this final week before the election?"

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: "Understanding that nearly 25 percent of the probable voting population are undecided and that only a small percentage have already cast their votes, I would encourage McCain to map out a detailed plan to stabilize the economy making public his advisory group of highly skilled and influential people, while providing accurate evidence how Obama, Frank, Dodd, etc., contributed to this economic mess and yet are arrogantly blaming Bush. At the same time, he should launch a massive grassroots get out the vote on election day campaign appealing to social and moral conservative who make up a major voting bloc in this nation.
"In my personal opinion, polls should be expelled from the political process at least one month in advance of an election. They have proven to be biased and propangandistic (if that’s a word). And 1000-2000 people from selected pools of people should not determine who will lead this nation for millions of voting Americans."

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: "McCain would have to repeatedly emphasize that Barack Obama has no interest in Traditional American Values such as “work hard and you will be rewarded”. He and his running mate would constantly remind the American voters that Obama would disarm our nuclear capabilities at the same time terrorist nations are expanding their nuclear weapons capabilities.
"And of course keep reminding the public that Obama will be raising taxes on the middle class to fund the redistribution of wealth. (The rich will find ways around paying)
And last hope that main stream media will go back to investigative reporting!!"

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: "The first thing I would do is to remove McCain’s negative ads against Obama and the democratic party and instead simply focus on McCains’s experience. McCain wants to show he has more experience, since he has been in the senate much longer than Obama. Therefore, he should speak about some things he has done in the senate in plain English that Americans understand. In other words, not simply mention he’s a maverick by standing up to his party, but some other specific things he has done in the senate and house of representatives.
"The ads against the democratic party stating that the government will be all democratic is probably not helping gain a substantial number of votes. Those ads simply speak to his core base of people who are going to vote Republican because of party loyalty. It’s probably not going to do much to persuade “swing” voters."

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: "If I were running the Republican campaign, I would develop a clear vision about where they wanted to take the country as it relates to the economy, energy policy and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Then I would focus all of their efforts on trumpeting that vision instead of talking about Joe the plumber and continuing to try to come up with things to make people afraid of Obama."

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: "I would have unceremoniously fired me long ago. McCain’s efforts to get elected have been unfocused and scattershot, wandering amoeba-like across the country.
“McCain is now doing what he should done from the onset of this race. His strength lies in more intimate venues where he can press the flesh and speak earnestly and passionately about a few key issues. He has found a few chinks in Obama’s armor, and he has hammered away at those with some success."

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: “If I were Senator McCain’s campaign manager, I would drop scare tactics and negative ads and give the nation a little straight talk about his priorities should he become president. I would also eliminate the Joe the Plumber reference which has become trite and annoying."

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: "I would tell McCain first of all, stay in Ohio. And second, lock Sarah Palin up in a room that is nowhere near any cameras or microphones."

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: "I think I’d take a philosophical perspective if I were a campaign manager. John McCain was once someone respected across the aisle. He also had a bipartisan following among voters. Then he went weird, perhaps taking advice from the wrong people and running a campaign that did nothing to advance his unique accomplishments. I feel for McCain: if he doesn’t win, this legacy will be tainted by his conduct and the Palin factor. This is a disgraceful way to go for a man with a career like his.
"On the tactical side, I’d reign Palin in and have her stop speaking off-the- cuff. I would have McCain talk about how this campaign has side- swiped his real personality and purposely reach out for the disenfranchised republicans instead of appealing to the more conservative demographic."

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: "I think it’s too late for Senator McCain to reclaim his former aura of integrity, but that’s his only hope. As a fervent believer in election reform, he is obviously uncomfortable in the mud pit. More Americans than usual are paying attention to this election, and they’ve already seen the puppet-strings of the campaign handlers calling McCain’s dance.
"But we are a nation that believes in redemption. We’re ready to embrace a prodigal son who admits his error. He should recover the inspiring principals and rhetoric of past campaigns. He should embody the honorable America he envisions, not the ignoble one that disappoints him."

North Carolina’s U.S. Senate race has become one of the most closely watched in the nation as money from national parties and interest groups has flowed into the state.

Republican Elizabeth Dole is running for a second six-year term against Democratic state Sen. Kay Hagan. Dole has made the case that it’s important to keep a significant number of Republicans in the Senate so Democrats don’t have a “blank check” in running government.

The News & Record asked its Voterspeak panel of readers to suggest questions they thought were still unanswered in this final week of the campaign.

Dole’s responses:

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican:

“How do your views differ from those of Sen. John McCain, the Republican nominee for president?”

A: “We had a little difference on the immigration issue,” Dole said. Dole was part of a group of senators that blocked a comprehensive immigration reform bill that included a path to citizenship for those here illegally.

McCain sponsored that bill but has not come closer to Dole’s position, saying that the United States needs to secure its borders before tackling other pieces of the immigration puzzle.

Dole said she “has some differences” over the McCain-Feingold law that attempted to set limits on campaign spending. McCain is a long-time advocate for restricting the flow of money in political campaigns of all kinds, while Dole and other conservatives say the measure amounts to a restriction on free speech.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican:

“Explain in concrete terms your position on offshore drilling? What safety concerns do you have about preventing oil spills?”

A: “Well, I don’t think you’d want to set the rigs up right on the shore,” Dole said. “So certainly you’d want it out where it’s not seen, because tourism is a really important industry.”

Earlier in her Senate term, Dole opposed lifting the federal offshore drilling ban. She reversed that position this year and said she is convinced that drilling can be done safely.

“In terms of oil spills...the technology has gone so far they can drill a hole the size of a closet and reach out 5 miles. So I think there’s pretty much a consensus that the technology is such you really do not” have a concern.

Dole points to Hurricane Katrina, saying that there were minimal spills in the Gulf of Mexico from that storm. That fact is disputed by several reports, including one by the EPA that showed more than 1 million gallons was lost from one refinery.

Dole is now a member of the “Gang of 20,” a group of senators from both parties hoping to craft energy legislation that can pass the Congress.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat:

“Looking back at your time in the Senate, what would you do differently?”

A: “I’m pleased with the way I voted on the issues the first term. There are things that occurred that should have been done differently, like the first part of the Iraq War where the administration made a lot of mistakes,” Dole said.

Dole said she is satisfied with the way she has voted.

“I try to make the best decision I can on what I think is right for North Carolina, it’s always North Carolina first,” she said.

Compiled by staff writer Mark Binker.

North Carolina’s U.S. Senate race has become one of the most closely watched in the nation as money from national parties and interest groups has flowed into the state.

State Sen. Kay Hagan, a Democrat, is trying to unseat incumbent Republican Elizabeth Dole. The seat is key to Democrats’ efforts to win the 60-vote majority in the Senate, which would allow them to pass legislation over the objections of Republicans.

The News & Record asked its Voterspeak panel of readers to suggest questions they thought were still unanswered in this final week of the campaign. Coming Wednesday: U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole’s responses.

Questions for N.C. Sen. Kay Hagan:

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican:
“How do your views differ from those of Sen. Barack Obama, the Democratic nominee for president?”

A: “They do differ. One of the big ones is on drivers’ licenses for illegal aliens,” Hagan said.
Hagan is referring to comments Obama made during primary debates that he would allow states to give drivers’ licenses to illegal aliens. Hagan says that should not be allowed.

The issue has not been a major part of the presidential campaign but has become the subject of an ad by the National Republican Trust PAC in recent days. Differences on illegal immigration policy were one of the first major points of contention between Hagan and Dole.

Hagan said she also opposes Obama’s plans to raise the capital-gains taxes — those taxes paid when property or stock is sold at a profit.

According to documents on his web site, Obama would eliminate capital-gains taxes for some small businesses and keep them the same for families making under $250,000. For families making more than $250,000 who are in the federal government’s top two tax brackets, Obama would raise the capital gains tax to 20 percent. Hagan opposes that rise.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican:

“Explain in concrete terms your position on off-shore drilling? What safety concerns do you have about preventing oil spills?”

A: “I was an early support of the bipartisan ‘Gang of 10’ legislation,” Hagan said, referring to an energy bill drafted by Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Senate. That “gang” is now a gang of 20, and Dole has joined.

“It would allow North Carolina to get 37.5 percent of the profit,” Hagan said of the bill, saying it was important that the state see return on the exploitation of its oil reserves.

Hagan said that improvements in technology have allayed many, if not all, of her safety concerns.

She added that the governor and state legislature should get to make the final decision about drilling.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat:

“Looking back at your time in the legislature, what would you do differently?”

A: “I do think I learned that legislation comes from compromise,” Hagan said when asked to reflect on her time in the state Senate. She pointed to the state’s clean smokestacks bill as an example of something that taught her the value of working with Republicans.

When asked if there were votes she wishes she could redo, Hagan said, “I’m sure there are, but I’d have to think about it.

“I’m proud of the stand we took on education, financial literacy for high school students” and other issues.

Update: Hagan later said through a spokeswoman that in hindsight she would have voted to ban soda from middle schools, and would have liked to have seen the ban expanded to high schools, as well. She also said if she was still in the state senate, she would work to add nutrition classes to the school curriculum.

Compiled by staff writer Mark Binker.

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel talks about gathering information helpful to voting.

QUESTION: “Early voting is gathering a head of steam, the presidential debates are over, and other forums for local and state races are dying down as campaigns run to Election Day. Have you decided who you want to vote for? If not, what information do you need to sway you from undecided to choosing a president, senator or governor? Are you finding it?”

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican:One issue gets no media/press coverage at all, but Obama has promised to make sure all restrictions on abortion are removed in his first days in office if elected . McCain-Palin gets my vote for defending the defenseless in our society. Elizabeth Dole has done much more for this state than the media or her opponent says. She’s my choice for U.S. senator.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: My support and vote is for McCain-Palin for president, McCrory for governor and Dole for Senate. Surely the registration fraud/voting issues prompted by ACORN must have swayed even the more ‘diehard’ Democrat to wake up! The distribution of wealth of the working class should be another “wake up call” (socialism). As for “Joe the Plumber” making $250,000 — the news media must not have called a plumber lately and gotten their bill!”

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: I have decided who I am voting for and will take advantage of early voting very soon. I found most of my information from looking at local newspaper and TV station Web sites, looking at their past voting record if the person was previously in politics and finding a few interviews of candidates on www.youtube.com. At this point there isn’t much that’s going to change with the candidates.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: I voted Thursday at the Old Courthouse. I don’t think there is going to be any information that will come out between now and Nov. 4 that would change the way I felt about any of the races or the bonds.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: Yes, I have decided for whom I am going to vote. And in this election and at all levels, I believe each person’s vote will be critical. The races for offices are tightly contested and contentious with even that venerable old ship of state, Howard Coble, taking a few shots across his bow. For me, no more information is necessary as nothing new and revelatory has burst upon the scene in the last several weeks. And there have been no swiftboatings or less-than-flattering photos of helmeted candidates in Patton tanks to cause consternation among the nominees from either party.
If a person wanted or needed more information, which is beyond my comprehension, it certainly is easily accessed. I cannot recall an election so rife with data, all a function of campaign wars being waged as much on the Internet as on the stump.”

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: After watching the debates and the lengthy campaign season unfold, I have become increasingly impressed with Sen. Obama’s intelligence, maturity, good judgment and calm demeanor, which will serve him well as the next president of the United States.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I’ll be voting for Obama on Nov. 4. Sarah Palin was, for me as well as many others, the deal-breaker as far as giving any support for McCain. The choice in the presidential race is clear to me, as is my choice of Kay Hagan for U.S. Senate. (I’m not sure Elizabeth Dole would even know her way around Salisbury anymore.)
The choices in the governor’s race, on the other hand, are much muddier. I really don’t want to vote for either Perdue or McCrory, so for the next couple of weeks I’ll be researching Mike Munger. I do not have any idea right now of who I will vote for in that race. I’m finding that race to be truly frustrating, but elections should give voters the feeling of being forced to make a choice — I just wish that there were better choices to be made!

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: I am prepared to vote and eager for election season to be over! While I haven’t taken advantage of early voting, I’ve decided on all candidates, both at the national and local levels. This is the best informed I’ve ever been, particularly regarding local election issues. Voterspeak is to thank for that!
Interestingly, I’m waiting until Nov. 4 to vote just in case something big happens to influence my decision in the N.C. races, particularly the gubernatorial and senate seat. There’s nothing that can sway votes like an old-fashioned, well-timed scandal.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: I’ve reached the saturation point! This frequently happens at this stage in election cycles.
I’ve read position papers and watched debates and interviews. Observed who might serve as a presidential cabinet member or adviser. Looked at who might be appointed to key post by a sitting governor or serve as senior staff to a U.S. senator.
Right now, I’m watching and waiting for an action, or reaction, that might change my mind.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: All my decisions are made, but I haven’t quit watching the candidates in case I need to change my mind.
The senate and governor’s races’ advertising is disgusting. But I’m encouraged this election cycle. Journalists have worked harder at fact-checking candidates’ talking points. There’s been better issue coverage.
Maybe we citizens have finally learned our lesson: Our elected officials need our constant guidance and supervision! When their election is over, our real work is just beginning.

Voterspeak is discussing what how the big registration numbers among Democrats might weigh in the fall election.

The question: Roughly 50 percent of voter registrations this year are Democratic, while only about 20 percent are Republican registrations. About a third of the registrations are independent. What impact (if any) do you believe the increase in Democratic registrations will have on North Carolina's election results?

Join the conversation in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: It is not surprising nearly 30 percent don’t identify with either party and that 30 percent will be the deciding factor. What is surprising is how long one party can ride their wave of anti-Bush campaigning, which most likely impacted the registration percentages. I hope the biased and incessant polling will prove futile again this year. Maybe the media gods would learn a little lesson in fairness ... probably not though, their agenda is quite obvious.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: Since North Carolina is one of the states that Acorn might have illegally registered voters, I think this could have a big impact on the elections. Democrats are using “scare tactics” to get voters to register - responsible Republicans were already registered. If election is close there will be a recount.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: It definitely makes things interesting as the election date approaches because of the uncertainty. The main question I have is how many of these new voters will actually vote, since they have not voted before. Another concern that I’ve noticed is that inexperienced voters usually have more trouble with voting because they are not aware of various things that experienced voters automatically know. For example, I have talked to SEVERAL young inexperienced voters who still are not sure of where to go vote and others who think they can just show up some place and simply vote. Missing that one piece of information can take up a lot of time for someone trying to vote.
I don’t think any one can predict how things will go in North Carolina or even in America because of so many different variables until the election day.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: I think that the increase in Democratic registrations could realistically lead to Democratic candidates winning the presidential, senatorial and gubernatorial races in N.C. I think the increase in registrations just speaks to the frustrations people have had with the current state of the country and the necessity they feel to do something about it.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: I would think that most Democratic candidates would have an advantage, given these numbers and the level of discontent among voters.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated I just don't think the math works out in the Republicans' favor on this one. I think that 30 percent chunk of independents is going to go Democratic, at least for the most part. I don't think McCain's performances in the last couple of debates, nor Palin's public appearances, have done much to boost their standing here. As far as the presidential election goes, I think North Carolina just might "go blue." The other partisan races, especially Dole and Hagan for the US Senate seat, are much tougher to predict. I still think that one in particular could go either way (and I happen to think their ads are much nastier than the Obama/McCain ones).

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: Conventional wisdom says the surge in Democratic registrations gives them an edge. However, it won’t result in proportional turnout because most are young/minority, who historically vote less habitually.
I think Republican flight to Unaffiliated is more telling, and linked to national government performance. The Unaffiliated pool is diverse, and no one message will reliably gain all that support. They’ll decide the national election. Party faithfuls will decide down-ballot races.

Weston also included this document.

Voterspeak is discussing what they want in a Guilford County commissioner.

Ths question: What are the main issues that you’re using to weigh candidates in the county commissioners races? Are you most concerned about infrastructure? Economic development (or the lack of it)? Taxes, spending and government efficiency? County services? Another issue? Why?

Join the conversation in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: Who will promote fiscal responsibility and accountability? We need commissioners who will invest the mind power to think through board decisions before making them; people who will research ways to prosper the county without increasing taxes. We need commissioners who will be creative, proactive, and humble, willing to think outside the box of tax and spend.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: I would be most concerned about government efficiency and the total operations of government. A fair tax increase that would generate revenue from all and not just property owners. And of course we will have commissioner Yow to insure a watchful eye for the majority of the citizens in the county of Guilford!

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: One thing I look at with the incumbents is their effectiveness in meeting. If the candidate spend their time in meetings making rude contacts and/or arguing with someone then they are not being an effective mature commissioner.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: Spending and efficiency are important to me. I think that it’s important to know a commissioner’s priorities when it comes to what they’re willing to approve. For instance, I 'd like to see someone vote to put more money into education before he/she votes to build another prison. Overall, I think we should elect commissioners who really put the long-term best interests of the people first.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: This year’s election allows the voters of Guilford County to rid itself of six commissioners, two of which (and we know who they are!) have been a toxic presence on the board. We have the opportunity to begin to change this theater of the absurd into at least a semblance of what public service should be. My point being that incumbents have gotta go.
In view of the on-going global financial crisis all attention must be focused on fiscal responsibility. Those programs which are sort of nice to have but are not essential to the efficient management of county government business should no longer be funded.
The citizens of this county can begin these belt tightening measures by voting “No” for the bond proposals. It is no longer “Morning in America”, at least for the nonce and we must realize that all non-essential services must be shelved until our economy has been righted.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: I would like to see less partisan bickering and more cooperation among the commissioners. Guilford County is facing shortfalls in revenue from property taxes and retail sales and will need to find ways to provide essential services as efficiently as possible.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I kind of think the new folks running for commissioners’ seats (and maybe incumbents as well, and those not up for re-election too) perhaps ought to take personality tests, and voters should use that information. Then maybe we can put together a group of county commissioners who can spend more time governing properly and less time bickering.

Joking (and wishful thinking) aside, if we should be so lucky to get a group that gets along, the issue I’d most like them to address is economic development. Guilford County has done a so-so job in attracting some companies to create jobs here in an admittedly difficult economic climate. I’d like to see the commissioners put more effort into that, and into supporting those new jobs by supporting better technical training and living wages.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: Ah, the local races! How many people actually know who is running for these seats without referring to the N&R first? Most know amazingly little about local races.

I’m new to Greensboro so I asked other residents about this one.

Local government has done well fostering an environment to bring high profile companies to the area. Greensboro is a well-planned, green city with admirable parks and recreation. I’d vote to keep what we have in good shape but not to add any new projects during these pitiful economic times. I’ve spent time in New York state where some public schools systems are horrible so I appreciate Guilford county schools. However, the change in school bus services due to fuel cost has affected my children (and no one in the Guilford County School Transportation office has returned my 10 calls).

This leads to another point: despite all the good things about Greensboro, many people feel county and city government stinks. There seems to be inefficiency, corruption, dishonestly, and lack of professionalism among local government. I’d like to see candidates have a more public personality, engage with average citizens. For example, county commissioners could visit high school civics classes to inform youth about local issues. Show some transparency regarding local decisions. I’d like to see a candidate bring local government out in the open, rebrand local government into something more engaging. I I will look for integrity and insight when it comes to the local races.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: I looking for candidates who are working for the taxpayer and not playing of game of “us & them” and “gotcha” politics, The district/ward system of election enables people with views on the outer edge of politics to hamper working for the good of the entire county.

Guilford County needs a smaller, and balanced, budget. There are too many sacred cows in the budget line items.

We need to continue the recruitment of good paying jobs (FedEx, BioTech firms etc).
Greater oversight of grants to nonprofit organizations is needed. Too many of them are related to the folks mentioned in the first paragraph or are not properly reported and administered for the proclaimed objective.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: I’ll be casting one vote in the County Commissioners section: Paul Gibson, At-Large.

He dropped by my house during his first race, and I liked his idea of building up a surplus to cushion budget problems. He’s a pragmatist, a consensus-seeker, and practical while working out of an idealistic vision. I think that results in good ideas. Also a biggie for me, he acts like a responsible adult!

In my District, Mike Winstead is unopposed. Nothing against him personally, but as a former home builder/developer, I’d say my ilk is already over-represented in both city and county government.

It’s obvious our economic meltdown will substantially reduce revenues from sales taxes. Property taxes are likely to remain unpaid as household budgets are strained. Balancing the budget will be the biggest challenge. Fund the must-haves generously, the like-to-haves cautiously. Take this opportunity to carefully review the performance of all programs and agencies, and study how County Departments can support each others’ work. I.e: A problematic railroad crossing was fixed after long struggles with the railroad. A few months later a different department had to tear it up for another project, never to be fixed right again - that’s just stupid!

I’d like to see any business incentives targeted at new small, local businesses, especially in alternative energy development. With our colleges and universities, available business parks, empty commercial property, transportation infrastructure and new school superintendent, there’s a huge opportunity to be a key hub for this new industry.

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel reviews the Greensboro bond referendum.

The question: Will you vote for any of the issues on Greensboro’s $205 million bond package? Is $50 million worth it for a new auditorium? Is $134 million worth of road bonds the only way to pave roads and build greenways? How about $20 million for Parks and Recreation, which will include a $12 million pool complex? If all the bonds pass, it would take an extra 2.5 cents on the property tax rate to fund all those projects. Will you be thinking with your wallet when you vote?

And they said:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: How much of a tax burden can the average citizen bear? In times of economic downturns, our leaders should be finding ways to do more with less. Yes, there is a desire to make this city look like a contender for businesses and investments, but at what expense? Auditoriums and pools have unknown financial returns to the city and are even more risky considering the average consumer will now have to cut back on wants to pay for needs. Why not look for investors who have the money and passion for these special projects instead of making every homeowner pay the price for a luxury few can afford right now? Why not find a way to improve our roads with less cost?

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: I don’t live in Greensboro, so would not be able to vote on these issues. However if I did live there I could not support all of the bonds. With the downturn in the economy and being in the business to sell homes, the 2.5-cent increase in taxes would impact the ability of a major segment of homeowners to complete a transaction.
While some of the bonds are probably necessary and in the long run would benefit the citizens of Greensboro, it might be best to put these on hold until taxpayers feel more secure.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: I plan on voting for the street improvement, housing and the War Memorial bonds. The first two bonds will enhance the appearance of the city. Although spending money on the park will also improve the appearance of the city, it will not have as much effect as the previously mentioned bonds.
War Memorial is in a state where it either has to be fixed or be torn down. It will be much easier to fix it now vs. wait and have more to fix later.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: I’m considering voting for the housing bond and the parks and recreational facilities bond. For me, it’s not necessarily how much money a bond is for as much as it’s about what we’re getting for that money. I think the auditorium bond is unnecessary and I think that the street improvement bond is inflated.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: I will vote only for the street improvement bonds as maintenance and upgrades to our infrastructure benefit all of our citizens. Safe streets and bridges are necessary components to a city’s commerce. Further, with the construction of additional walkways and bikeways, people may opt to eschew traditional modes of transportation and resort to cycling and walking as means of commuting.
The housing bonds proposal is a tough call. Many people would benefit from its passage. However, I do not think that those of us who pay taxes should be called upon to further underwrite the needs of the disadvantaged of our community.
I probably would have voted for the parks and recreation bonds had not the swimming pool rider been added. Although producing the heir apparent to Michael Phelps may bring notoriety to our fair city, a natatorium will be of little use to most of us. The same can be said for the improvements to War Memorial Auditorium. Nice to have? Sure. Necessary? Not really. Does our “quality of life” suffer? Relative to what we have become accustomed, yes. However, we must face the reality of hard financial times getting harder and that taxpayers are just about tapped out.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: With this economic environment, it will be difficult to pass these bonds. We need to separate wants from needs and may have to find other ways to finance these projects.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I definitely think there are some bond projects that are more important than others (a pool complex??). Even amongst the school bonds, I can point to some that I would prioritize over others. I'll be voting for a lot of the bonds again - even though that property tax hike affects me, and not so much the rest of my voting demographic, and filling my tiny gas tank all the way to "F" is now a luxury. But not all of them. It may seem unfair to judge a need for road improvements against a need for a pool complex, and I certainly don't want my action as a voter to stifle the local arts scene, or economy. Like everyone else, I will vote based on what sort of progress I would most like to see the city make.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: Parks are a wonderful thing, as are new auditoriums, but Greensboro isn’t lacking in these departments. It is a marvelously green city with many swimming pools and recreational facilities. It is financially irresponsible during this economic crisis to spend on things which are more or less OK. No one wants their taxes raised but if it has to happen, I’d rather see that 2.5-cent tax go to assist those struggling due to the economic crisis or toward any city infrastructures in dire need of repair.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: I would prefer the pool complex be a separate item. As I recall it was defeated in a prior election cycle. Merging it with the Parks and Recreation bonds appears to be a “back-door” attempt at passage. Where is the other $8 million being spent?
Since the auditorium money is to be spent for renovations to the existing building, I would be concerned about the acoustics.
What new roads will be constructed and where? If this is for repair and maintenance only?
The City Council and County Commissioners need to make the case for a “yes” vote. Without more information I’m hesitant to approve any of these.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: I’ll vote for the housing bonds. I think the best use of this money would be energy-efficiency upgrades on older rental housing stock. I’ll consider it one last chance to see our tax revenue used wisely under a properly supervised, well-targeted program. Tenants should benefit through reduced energy costs. Only properly licensed and insured contractors should participate under a “lowest conforming bid” scheme, and all work should be inspected before payment. A small amount for use of existing government staff should be the only expenditure outside of actual work performed.
The rest of the bonds get a “No.” C’mon, guys! You’d like a line-item veto on budgets; so would we. Let us vote on the merits of separate projects where possible.

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: Both Roy Cooper and Bob Crumley, who are running for attorney general, appear to be capable candidates for the job. I did appreciate the way Cooper brought swift justice reversing the guilty-until-proven-guilty verdict sought by many in the Duke lacrosse player case.

In any candidate, I look for a humble person who truly grasps the fact that the government is not the answer to all our problems. True, proven leaders don’t point fingers blaming the opponent or the opponent’s party for the nation’s problems because in reality, neither of the two main parties has created all the problems nor can one person resolve them all. So I vote for those who provide obvious leadership qualities, yet understand the limits of government.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: Bob Crumbley for attorney general and Steve Troxler for commissioner of agriculture. Don’t know who is opposing.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: I do know who is running for these various offices, although they don’t get much attention due to the many big races occurring in NC and the presidential election. I plan on deciding my vote the same way I choose other candidates, and that is by doing my research online and looking at their past performance if they held an elected office in the past. The economy is a major issue nationwide, therefore, that is probably the main issue I will focus on in determining who I will vote for.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: Honestly, I didn’t know who was running for commissioner of agriculture and I didn’t know who was challenging Roy Cooper for the attorney general spot until I looked it up. I don’t know that there are key issues that sway my decision when thinking about Council of State positions. I’m more likely to read a little about each candidate and find the one whose approach or perspective or general outlook is most similar to my own.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: I do know the candidates for attorney general and commissioner of agriculture. This is not a boast because I think that it indicates I really need to get a life but, then, so does my participation on this panel.

The council of state races are important as the policies of these offices affect our daily lives more directly than those at the top of the ticket. Council campaigns are given short shrift by the media; understandably so as only policy wonks wax ecstatic over debates between insurance commissioner candidates. But, the management of this office has a direct impact upon our wallets (we can only hope there’s another Jim Long lurking among the roster).

I will consider the political pedigrees and track records of the candidates before casting my vote and hope that I have paid sufficient attention.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: Candidates for state attorney general are Democratic incumbent Roy Cooper and Republican challenger Bob Crumley, who is head of a large personal injury law firm. For the past eight years Cooper has been actively prosecuting those who prey on children and the elderly.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I support Roy Cooper for attorney general mainly because of his work toward making North Carolina’s schools and colleges better prepared for dangerous and potentially deadly crises on campus. Personally I have seen how unprepared (mentally and physically) schools can be in these situations and it is truly frightening. The more resources I know are there to help in such a crisis, the safer I feel and the better able I am to protect my students’ safety. I also support Cooper because of his efforts in helping and supporting organizations that help women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.

I also will be voting for Suzanne Reynolds for NC Supreme Court. Someone who has been teaching, researching, and writing about our laws for as long as she has would make an exemplary, impartial supreme court judge. Reynolds has expertise in the area of legal ethics. To me, such expertise seems like exactly what any judge —most of all, a supreme court judge — should have.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: I am a bit turned off by Bob Crumley’s status on illegal immigrants as the “root” of NC’s gang problem. That problem has many dynamics and isn’t merely a migrant issue.

I’m impressed with Roy Cooper’s commitment to child pornography, methamphetamine labs (a problem in rural areas), and the sex offender database. As a parent with kids from 6-16, these issues hit home. I am impressed with his handling of the Duke lacrosse situation. His actions make sense now as more info is available about the incident. With Crumley, there’s that old issue of his law firm/campaign ad which reminds me of Old South White Boy privilege.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: These are some of the factors I will use in making decisions on key state wide races:
Auditor: we need to more closely monitor the use of taxpayer money by state funded non profits. There are too many instances of shady dealings and misuse of our tax dollars. More oversight is required.

Insurance Commissioner: a new perspective is needed. This department has been reasonably well run but there is much improvement needed. The former assistant running is not the person to implement the needed changes.

Attorney General: this is another state wide office that needs change. The same party has controlled this position for 5+ decades. I shudder to think of the misdeeds swept under the rug.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: I’m voting for Roy Cooper and Steve Troxler. For the life of me, I can’t recall their opponents’ names (blush).

Cooper’s getting rid of payday lenders and checking on gas price gouging show me he’s watching out for the little guy. Troxler had to clean up corruption, and deserves to keep his job.
I think Wayne Goodwin will carry on Jim Long’s good work as Insurance Commissioner, keeping rates in line and not running off insurance companies.

Sorry, but “Republican Commissioner of Labor” is just an oxymoron. Haven’t decided on Auditor or Lt. Governor yet – gotta read up on them.
I accidentally met Elaine Marshall, and she impressed me as well-informed, no-nonsense, open to suggestion and personally impressive. My personal dealings with her office were handled expeditiously.

No train wrecks, flops or errors, despite the liberal news media. That's some of what our folks on the Voterspeak panel had to say after last night's vice presidential debate. Their thoughts:

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: Governor Palin and Biden both had their moments - Palin however clearly won the debate in my opinion. She related to the average citizens and their concerns. Biden was still taking cheap shots at McCain and his proposed policies - Don't think Palin took enough shots at Obama and his tax increases on average america and the desire to send more troops in to Afghanistan but cut military spending.

In spite of the liberal news media - I think that Palin gave the GOP and the average american a boost!

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated:

I think Palin did a lot better than what most people expected. However, there were many times where she did not really answer the question that was asked of her. She is definately more confident on energy versus foreign policies. Although she did better than most expected, I still think Biden has more experience and did a better job in the debate than Palin.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: Nothing spectacular about this debate. I do think that Gov. Palin communicated much better in the debate format than she did in her interviews with the networks. With that said, I did have a problem with her avoiding some questions in favor of bringing up unrelated talking points. Sen. Biden's performance was adequate and he proved knowledgeable of the pertinent issues.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican: A very fine debate that did not devolve into a train wreck as some pundits had predicted. Were I a member of a forensic society, I would deem Senator Biden as the winner on the strength of his command of his numbers and his overall demeanor.

Governor Palin's primary objective was to not be incompetent. This she accomplished with ease and truth to tell, she was Obiden's equal in nearly every phase of the debate. She was quite formidable when the questions were tossed into her wheelhouse. And with those that were not she sort of fought off the pitch and went to the opposite field.

All in all, this debate was far more entertaining than that rather lame affair between the McCain and Obama.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I was, like most of the commentators & analysts, surprised that neither of them had any major flops or errors. I was also relieved by that, because I think the election lately has taken a backseat to politics of personality. Even the furor over the Wall Street crisis has come down to name-calling and who's guilty of their party's typical behaviors, etc. As far as the VP debate specifically, I felt that Biden was a clear winner. I thought Palin held her own fairly well, but I'm not sure that it was much more than "cramming for a test," as several newsanchors have described it.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: Biden did well and performed very presidential. I appreciated this clarity, composure, and knowledge. Palin didn't screw up, but she came off as amateurish, unable to directly answer questions, and twitchy. She knows a lot about a few of the issues (energy) but not enough to make me feel comfortable with her as a VP to a really old man.

The News & Record's Voterspeak panel members have a few questions for the vice presidential candidates.

The question: Now you get to play Jim Lehrer. Or, more accurately, Gwen Ifill, moderator of the vice presidential debate Thursday at George Washington University in St. Louis .

In this debate, you have one question for each vice presidential candidate. What do you most want to know about Alaska Gov. Sarah Palinʼs policies, stances, personality or political goals? How about Delaware Senator Joe Biden?

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican: I would ask Palin to explain why she fired the public safety commissioner in Alaska and for Biden to cite the sources he used to defend his pro-abortion stance despite being Catholic.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: For Senator Biden, I would ask if he thinks his health and his ability to "Put his foot in his mouth" might impede his ability to serve effectively as Vice President or President.

For Governor Sarah Palin, I would ask her to assure us that she will remain steadfast in her stand on abortion, the second amendment and to continue to impress upon the American People her ability to serve as Vice President or President both domestically and on matters of foreign affairs.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: Sarah Palin – What was the last book you read that significantly impacted your perspective on political office/public service. How did it influence you?

Joe Biden – After being in Congress for so many years, what past political mistakes or miscalculations have changed the way you go about your decision-making process today?

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican:
Biden: After being a major player in politics as usual for three decades there truly is no credible reason for you to be on the Democratic ticket. Why would anyone believe that you can contribute anything to Obama's grand plans for change ?

Palin: What in the hell were you thinking ? Certainly you could not have been prepared for the media feeding frenzy subsequent to McCain having chosen you as his running mate. Washington is not Juneau, you know. How has this changed the way in which you perceive politics in general and yourself in particular?

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: What is your reaction to conservative columnist Kathleen Parker's asking you to resign from the Republican Ticket for the good of the country?

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: Like most people following these two candidates, I have a lot of personal questions for Sarah Palin. But, mainly because Joe Biden has given more than a hundred interviews to date as a vice presidential candidate to Palin's three, I don't have personal questions for him. So, in fairness, I'm sticking with a single policy-related question. Both Democrats and Republicans failed on Monday to ensure passage of the Wall Street bailout bill. For both Sen. Biden and Gov. Palin, what is your position on the Wall Street bailout efforts, and what needs to be done by your party colleagues in the House's next session on Thursday to ensure that Monday's failure doesn't happen a second time?

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: If I had the opportunity to kick back with Palin or Biden, here's what I'd ask:

Sen. Biden, are you prepared to be second fiddle to a man with little experience compared to yours? Are you able to deal with Obama's potentially successful bid for Presidency while your own never succeeded? How will the dynamics work between what you bring to the ticket (experience) versus Obama's strengths (vision and personality)?

Gov. Palin, why do you feel you deserve to be Vice President? Why do you want this job? For love of country or for party ideology? What leadership can you provide that more seasoned politicians (Mitt Romney, for example) can't?

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: For Governor Palin---Explain how your experience as Chief Executive of the state of Alaska has prepared you to be Vice President.

For Senator Biden—How do you reconcile your 29 years as a U.S. Senator (with your party in the majority most of those years) with running on a platform of “Change?” (Please don’t tell me it’s because you take the train home to Delaware each night)

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat:
Palin:
I agree that lots needs to be changed in governement. A maverick attitude is encouraging because it implies new ways of thinking. On the other hand, our founders thought carefully and made government slow to react so that it couldn't be turned quickly against individuals or opponenets. Where do you see the balance between these two concerns?

Biden:
The Wall Street bailout has shown that Americans from all viewpoints do agree on some principles. You seem both practical and creative. How can citizens best influence politicians to reach the goals we do agree on?

Some of our Voterspeak participants checked out the presidential debate on Friday, and here's what they had to say:

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: Am I understanding that Obama wants to cut funds for defense budget but wants to send more troops to Afghanistan? Personally I think Obama is just "speaking" He states that he voted "no" to go to war - he was NOT a US Senator when we went to war.

Both candidates didn't focus a lot on foreign affairs - McCain could remember the name for whom he was wearing the bracelet- Obama was "blundering" on the name - so was it a serious gesture? He was just copying McCain.
Obama is still just speaking about issues in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan - McCain has been there (literally) He really gets it. Do we want a president that would not even visit those wounded while protecting us?

On the question about Russia - Obama just does not get it! As McCain suggested very politely - maybe he is just naive. (Having or showing a lack of experience or judgement.) Obama was great at changing the subject when he didn't know the answer.
It appears that Obama wants our country protected by talks - He really does not get it. When talks fail - then we have to take action.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: I liked what Obama said over what McCain said over issues of the economy and the issues in Iraq. McCain wants less taxes for large businesses and wants to keep everything else the same. Those types of statements sound like a nice statement for making the rich richer and not doing much for the majority of working class Americans who are much more strongly affected by the sways of the economy. On the other hand, Obama plans to provide tax breaks to 95 percent of the population.

In regards to the issues in Iraq, McCain sounds like he plans to do things the same way they have been done for the past 5 years, which sounds like if he is elected it could go on forever. I also did not like how McCain attempted to compare Bush's stubborn personality trait about the war to Obama's.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: I – to my own disappointment – had my hopes up way too high for this debate. Maybe it was all the “Will he? Won’t he?” over the last few days. But my disappointment was realized in the opening minutes, when Jim Lehrer had to point out that neither McCain nor Obama had answered his first question about each of their stances on the Wall Street bailout plan.

As a teacher and someone who spends all day with 12-year-olds, I understand very well the need to “sell” the points you’re trying to make. The debate tonight was not much different and at times I felt a bit like one of my 12-year-olds, trying to make sense of what was being said but at least understanding that each man sure wanted me to believe him. I thought both McCain and Obama made excellent points on various subjects. Obama’s comment that, “John, you like to pretend the war began in 2007,” was a perfect way to express the frustration I and many others have felt about Bush’s claims of overwhelming success in Iraq, but I did feel that McCain at least sounds as if he has a better grip on how dealing with hostile or potentially hostile nations is specificially done (I personally agree with Obama’s “direct diplomacy” approach). Also, Obama did a particularly lovely job of pronouncing “Pakistan.” And both of them wear bracelets, apparently.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: I eagerly watched the debate, witnessing both candidates list their promises on the economy, energy policy, & their love of Gen. Pratreus. I paused when they got to Afghanistan because this is something I know a little about.

I'm married to an Afghan. I have family in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Neither candidate really knows the issues at hand. By the way, I've been to both countries.

Afghans and Pakistanis do not trust nor enjoy American troops in their borders. Having more troops in a military capacity will breed even more resentment and allow the Taleban to gain more popular support.
The US needs to 1) help form a legitimate Afghan government made by the people rather than a leadership imposed from the outside. This may mean involving some members of the Taleban as they do have grassroots support in certain areas of the country 2) help develop infrastructure and improve capacity building. One way is to immediately stop local corruption associated with development projects
3) Take steps to rebuild trust among Afghans who feel used by American troops and policies.

One important point that Obama harped on was the need to kill Osama bin Laden. This is moot: Al Qaeda exists independent of bin Laden. It is designed to do so. His death at the hands of American military may make him more popular.

The best way to defeat Al Qaeda is to promote more equitable foreign policy in the Muslim world.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: Immediate impression: McCain whipped Obama. Dadgummit!

In the beginning both were regurgitating stump speech phrases. Maybe that works for people who are just starting to listen, but it makes my cynicism raise its ugly head.

McCain had much better preparation to weave emotional appeals into his points, which probably appeals to the largest undecided cohort. Obama will likely be prortrayed as "uppity" for being the first to interrrupt, 'cause that also works with another undecided cohort.

Obama's careful and precise communication appeals to me - I want clarity and details. I don't imagine it comes across with my cousins in Mississippi that well.

I do think it's clear how much both candidates are being "handled". I wish "debate" still had some of its dictionary meaning left. Now it just means "long ad with video photo op".

The News & Record's Voterspeak panel members on their take of N&R video interviews with candidates for governor.

The question: The News & Record posted video interviews online featuring the two major-party gubernatorial candidates, Beverly Perdue and Pat McCrory. Check out the clips, and then tell us about a point from one of the candidates that you disagree with and why.

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican:
I actually agree with both candidates for governor on their responses to the respective questions on the death penalty and the challenge of illegal immigrants in the community college system.
One small point of contention I have with Perdue’s response is that she thinks the federal government needs to pass something else in addition to the current immigration laws to have a better handle on the issue. Why not enforce the current laws already on the books at the state level, then the community college enrollment question takes care of itself. Just a thought.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican: After watching both candidates respond, I can’t disagree with either. While I don’t agree with Beverly Perdue’s policies in most cases, she is right with not allowing illegal immigrants into our community colleges. Why educate someone that is here illegally and then return them home to work at jobs we have shipped to their country?
As for Pat McCrory - I support his stand on the death penalty. As a mother of one in law enforcement that was shot (and made it) I strongly support his stand.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated: I agree with McCrory that something should be done about the gang issues plaguing the state. However, he does not seem to have a very clear plan of how to decrease the problem. He stated that certain crimes should not be forgiven but never gives a clear definition of what crimes and/or ages are included in what should be forgiven.
I do not agree with the death penalty. As Perdue stated, there are still situations where people are falsely accused of crimes despite the technology we have today. People should be punished for their crimes, but we as people do not have the right to judge someone and determine that the individual should die.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat: I disagreed with Pat McCrory’s comments the death penalty moratorium. I’m aware of the Supreme Court ruling about Kentucky’s death penalty and the legality of lethal injection without the presence of a doctor, but I think there are other important questions that should be addressed during a moratorium. With questions about the adequacy of legal counsel and racial disparities, among other things, that still need to be addressed, I don’t think we should be in a hurry to end the moratorium.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican:
I really do not disagree with either candidate and their positions on the questions put before them. My only quibble, and a minor quibble at that, is Mr. McCrory’s contention that offshore drilling will provide high-paying jobs to our citizens. That ain’t gonna happen. Having worked in the pipeline industry for 26 years, I know that these positions will be filled from within the oil and gas organizations unless our state mandates that a certain percentage of openings is filled by North Carolinians, also unlikely to happen.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat: I disagree with Perdue and McCrory, who support the death penalty despite recent death-row inmates found innocent after decades in prison. The court system does not provide equal justice for all because poor people cannot afford the high cost of quality legal representation.
There should be a moratorium on executions until this can be addressed.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated: From the two minutes or so that Perdue speaks about community colleges and illegal immigrants, it seems clear to me that she thinks the four-year, straight-out-of-high-school, traditional college education is the only path worth spending time — and taxpayers’ money — on. And, conveniently, funding that ideal would effectively prevent not just illegal immigrants but plenty of American students who are plenty driven and talented from attaining “the hope of education,” as Perdue calls it. This, incidentally, is coming from the candidate who is a former public school teacher herself and who has the endorsement of the NCAE.
The simple fact is, the traditional college path is not for everyone, and that’s OK. We have gained so much ground in educating all of the kids in our schools and preparing all of them for life after they leave school, whatever that means for them. I know because I’ve been lucky enough to have been a part of it for the last five years. But who has the right to say that getting an electrician’s or contractor’s license at a community college is any less valuable, or challenging, than getting a bachelor’s degree? Myself, I earned the same degree as about a hundred other people from UNCG, but I’m fairly certain that each of us went about it in at least slightly different ways, yet we all have the exact same piece of paper.
What is most important about education is opportunity, and it seems to me that Perdue plans to portion out the opportunities rather sparingly.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat: Beverly Purdue is reluctant to allow illegal immigrants access to community college education. I disagree with her decision although I certainly appreciate her reasoning.
She is pragmatic. There aren’t enough resources already, so why allow illegal immigrants access when they can’t legally work?
I understand her point and feel it is, at first glance, an economically responsible approach. She is also correct in desiring the federal government to provide more guidance on the issue.
Her perspective, however, demonstrates how little she knows about immigrant life (legal or not). The informal economy is alive and well among immigrants, so illegals can find under-the-table jobs. There are networks for this type of work among immigrant communities. While this may be against the law, informal economies keep families fed and housed. Immigrants, legal or not, are often hard-working people.
This has been true throughout America’s long immigrant history.
But most importantly, the children of illegal immigrants do better in school and will become more confident society members if their parents have access to education. We know there is gang activity in some immigrant communities — not having educational opportunities may increase such activity. Furthermore, illegal immigrants can feasibly spend entire lives here and remain part of the society, economy, and culture. Community colleges may not have the resources to deal with illegal immigrants. I get that. But I also know that a lack of education among any population demographic won’t lead to anything positive.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican: I agree with Bev Perdue that we should not have illegal immigrants receiving a free tuition to our Community Colleges.
I agree with Pat McCrory that the death penalty should be reinstated, now.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat: I disagree with both candidates on supporting the death penalty. From my own experience, I know the error into which any person may wander while sincerely believing one is absolutely right. The death penalty is irrevocable. Wrong judgments by human beings are unavoidable. Life imprisonment without parole, but with rights to appeal the conviction, is the best balance I can logically and emotionally justify.

The News & Record's Voterspeak panel how the national economic crisis could impact local races.

The question: Given the turmoil in the national economy, what do you want to hear from candidates for state legislature and local offices such as county commissioner? Are there things people in these down-ballot races can do to help bolster your confidence in your own financial situation?

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican:
The turmoil is the result of greed and poor financial planning. The consumer signed a loan he knew he couldn’t afford, the seller encouraged him to sign a contract he knew the buyer wouldn’t be able to pay, and the government taxed the consumer and seller so special-interest groups can pay for their pet projects. The average American spends $1.10 for every dollar earned. I don’t need a politician to bolster my confidence in the economy, I need to live on less and be thankful for what I do have.
I’d like to have a leader show us how she/he is going to stop the ever-increasing flow of earned income out of the taxpayer’s paycheck. Show me how you will balance the budget this year cutting back on unnecessary projects while lowering taxes until the nation recovers. Then show me how you will keep that smaller budget balanced for the next decade without raising taxes because you planned ahead. In the meantime, we need to reacquaint ourselves with the words frugal and modest.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican:I would expect the state legislature to offer incentives to business to bring jobs/revenue to our state. Also again work on lowering the gas tax to offset the increase at the pumps.
Local commissioners as well as non-profit groups could organize seminars to educate people on handling this crisis that our Democratic Congress has gotten us into.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated:I would like to know what the local officials are planning to do to bring more high-tech jobs to the Greensboro area. The colleges are producing students to go into the jobs, but the students must leave and go to other areas because of the lack of high tech jobs.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat:As for as state and local officials, I want people who will be strongly opposed to things like predatory lending and sub-prime mortgages that have led to the nation’s economic turmoil. The magnitude of our economic problems is so great that it requires solutions on a national scale. We arrived at this point partially because of a lack of regulation on a state level. So, state and local officials have an important part to play in our national economic recovery.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican:“I will not seek re-election.” By proclaiming right off the reel there would be no second term, elected officials could use all of the powers of their offices without fear of retribution. No cronyism, no paybacks. Just be about the people’s business ... then go away.
I should also like to hear that there will be a moratorium on bond referenda and tax increases in my lifetime. All government agencies, including heretofore sacred cows like the schools, will just have to scrape by on the hundreds of millions allotted to them. Taxpaying citizens are being sucked dry by the parasitic nature of government. This city, this county, this state needs fiscal responsibility from government.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat:The financial crisis that we’re experiencing will affect every one of us on the state and local level. There will be decreased revenue from income and capital-gains taxes because of reduction of personal incomes and value of investments. Cities and counties will collect less sales and property taxes as houses sell for lower prices and people are forced to curtail spending. Those running for state and local offices need to spend our tax money prudently and must find ways to cut government costs to match reduced revenue.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated:As for the county commissioners or City Council, I don’t follow their goings-on as closely as I should. Agreeing on a budget does seem to be an issue for the current county commissioners, though. I’ll definitely be thinking about it before I vote.
Kay Hagan probably has the best understanding of the current situation (though I certainly don’t know for sure that she does). Elizabeth Dole certainly has experience, but the problems we’re dealing with now came about more recently than she has been effective at all.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat:Being new to the area, I asked neighbors and family. Most had this to say: We don’t really know who these people are or what they are doing. Some said they think local officials are unprofessional (a water-throwing incident was mentioned) and too engrossed in the Old South, old-school type of politics.
While this all sounds like fodder for a reality show, I came to a few of my own conclusions. Having retired parents on fixed incomes, I worry about their continued financial independence. How will state and local officials help keep companies solvent, in keeping their pension programs in the black, so that those dependent on them will not be without financial security? Officials should work for improvements in the Social Security system and medicare at the local and state level.
At the city level, I’d like to see officials be more forthcoming to residents. First, increase your visibility in the general public.
Engage MySpace, Facebook (if not already), blogs, meaningful public appearances. Help get the wider public interested in local issues.
That would build more trust in local politics. My informal survey revealed people think the county and city are corrupt.
Finally, many residential areas are facing unwanted commercial development. Neighborhood associations need commissioners who value privacy and neighborhood preservation. A good local leader understands neighborhood integrity sometimes takes precedence over profit.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican:At the state level a smaller balanced budget and lower taxes would boost my confidence, in the short run, that my government was aware of the current economic situation. For the long term, a firm resolve to not have excessive business incentives and a transparent budget-making process would boost my confidence. However, this is not something I expect from a legislature controlled for 100-plus years by one party.
At the local level we need less “gotcha” and more focus on the needs of all citizens, not just those in one district. (This is one of the problems with ward-type politics). When a citizen turns on the faucet it does not matter if the water is Republican water or Democratic water; the point is to have good water. When you call the fire department it should not matter if the truck was purchased when the Democrats or Republicans had a majority on the board. You want a truck that is fast and works well. Having our county commissioners adopt a “taxpayers-first” attitude would boost my confidence.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat:Two things are required for competent government at all levels — attention from citizens and transparency in government activities. I want:
Realistic long-term planning.
Conservative stewardship of resources.
Creative, innovative thinking.
Solicitation of citizen input.
Admission and fixing of mistakes.
Just this week an editorial shed light on a stupid N.C. legislature ethics provision. Thanks a lot for shaming me, Democrats!
Tell your representatives what you think. Go to ncleg.net, enter your nine-digit ZIP code at the bottom right, click on a representative’s name, then click on their e-mail address and write your message.

The News & Record’s Voterspeak panel discusses which presidential or U.S. Senate candidate has the best energy plan.

The question: “With the jump in gas prices around the Triad linked to Hurricane Ike, the cost and supply of fuel is high on people’s minds. Of those running for U.S. Senate or president, whose policies do you most agree with for handling the country’s energy needs?”

And Voterspeak says:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican:

Sens. McCain and Obama have provided similar energy proposals, but I like the way McCain is willing to put as many options on the table as possible — drilling more in the United States, nuclear, alternative fuels, etc. — to move us toward energy independence. He seems to understand that with more vigor. Sen. Obama just recently came on board with offshore drilling, most likely because popular opinion has shifted that direction.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican:

John McCain has proven in his 20-plus years that he will reach across party lines for the good of our nation! He supports offshore drilling and alternative fuel development. Barack Obama has too many preconceived ideas and not enough experience to do so. We have depleted our forest and covered our prime land with cement and asphalt to supply our wants/needs. Offshore exploration seems to be necessary to do the same. Sen. Dole, of course, supports offshore drilling and exploration of alternative sources. Kay Hagan owns oil wells inland, so why would she support offshore drilling?

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated:

There should be a balance of drilling and serious investing in research and using existing resources to decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil. Other countries are further ahead in using alternative energy.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat:

Obama has the energy policy that I most agree with. He has a more consistent record of supporting renewable energy. McCain’s policy centers around oil and nuclear power, which is shortsighted. With the current state of our energy situation, any talk about oil drilling is just to make people feel good, since drilling would make little real impact. Any new policies and initiatives should be centered around reducing emissions and developing renewable energy.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican:

Mr. McCain, with his Lexington Project, has the more comprehensive energy plan. One can find the necessary nuts and bolts to build a solid base for dealing with America’s ever-increasing fuel crunch. The Lexington Project would commit to expanding our domestic oil exploration and increase the use of our natural gas supplies (a la Pickens’ plan). McCain also offers tax credits for zero-carbon cars and hefty incentives for development of battery-powered vehicles. His plan will incorporate the private sector in developing technology and business plans.

Mr. Obama’s plan is typically Democrat in that the government will be involved in all facets short of driving your kids to school.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat:

Since oil is a non-renewable resource, Barack Obama’s policy of reducing our dependence on foreign oil and developing alternative sources of energy makes the most sense.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated:

The U.S.’s dependence on gas and oil, regardless of where it comes from, was demonstrated best last weekend, as everybody and their brother high-tailed it to the nearest gas station. Meanwhile, the gas station was able to crank prices up by $1 to $1.50 per gallon higher than they had been just 24 hours before. We are living at the mercy of the oil companies and whoever is in their Washington, D.C.-sized back pockets.

There is no quick and simple solution to the energy crisis. Offshore drilling, or any other kind of drilling, isn’t going to produce a drop of good ol’ American gas the week after the restrictions are lifted. While there’s something to be said for the in-the-meantime solution view on drilling, neither Obama nor McCain are talking enough about the long-term development of alternative fuels and energy sources.

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat:

Obama appears to have the more detailed energy policy, taking long- term consequences into consideration, particularly with offshore drilling and nuclear technology. He has specific targets and timelines lessening dependency and developing new technology. Obama’s policy, more than McCain’s Lexington Project (nicely named), appears to understand the business end of energy. More “green-collar” jobs can be both lucrative, useful for decreasing energy consumption and beneficial for the environment.

However, all candidates more or less agree on most major talking points regarding energy: the need to invest in alternatives, decreasing consumption, more hybrid and electric vehicles, less dependency on foreign oil. One difference is their approach to offshore drilling (although Obama has softened his position), plus the little details here and there on other energy issues.

Candidates have not touched on the most important aspect in all of this: preparing Americans to change the way we live. Presidential candidates must develop school-age mandatory programs teaching future generations to be green citizens. Small things, such as implementing a charge for every plastic grocery bag used (these bags are a byproduct of oil, by the way), can make huge lifestyle differences. Oil and natural gas aren’t renewable resources. With this in mind, it is a great historic moment to engage new options and new lifestyles.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican:

Kay Hagan has tried to have it both ways on energy policy. She is for new sources of energy as long as they don’t include nuclear power and oil from offshore drilling. In other words, she is hoping and praying the sun shines and the wind blows. This is much like the Democratic Party’s line with which she has voted 90 percent-plus of the time she has been in office.
Elizabeth Dole has been a firm advocate of a proactive approach with solar and wind power but most importantly offshore drilling and licensing of new nuclear power plants. This is a more balanced and reasoned approach.

Sen. Obama has changed his position with the release of the latest polls. I’m not sure what his latest stance might be. Last I heard he was supporting overinflating automobile tires to achieve energy independence.

Sen. McCain has now realized that we need to drill where there is oil, offshore and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. He has consistently supported new nuclear power plants in addition to solar and wind power.

I am not in favor of tax subsidies for solar and wind. This should be supported by the free market.

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat:

Well, I’m voting for Obama/Hagan. Their political philosophies align closest with mine. But campaign statements aren’t necessarily effective policy.

Here’s my slap-in-the-face challenge to you (yes, you)!

Pretend you haven’t swallowed your candidate’s “foreign oil” red herring whole. I regurgitated mine when I read FAQ #10. Have the guts to find questions:
1. Energy options
2. Markets
3. Subsidies
4. Taxation
5. Drilling leases
6. Revenue sharing
7. Infrastructure costs

Then look for your own answers!

From the moderators: Courtesy of Ruth Mary Weston, links to the candidates' energy plans:

U.S. Senate

Christopher Cole, Libertarian

Sen. Elizabeth Dole, Republican and this

N.C. Sen. Kay Hagan, Democrat

President

Bob Barr, Libertarian

Sen. John McCain, Republican

Sen. Barack Obama, Democrat

From the News & Record:

A story on the U.S. Senate candidates and energy and an interactive graphic.

Energy. Education. Health insurance. Decision-making abilities.

Members of the News & Record’s Voterspeak panel consider these and other issues imporant as they watch the U.S. Senate and North Carolina gubernatorial campaigns and try to determine which candidates will win their support.

The question for Voterspeak: “If you had one question to ask the candidates for governor or senator, what would it be and why?”

Their responses:

Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican:
I would ask Sens. Hagan and Dole, “What practically and proactively will you do to move the USA toward energy independence?” Energy independence is a non-partisan issue, affecting everyone in this country who doesn’t have the privilege of government-funded mileage or utility reimbursement. It needs to be attacked aggressively, creatively and with a goal of independence by 2020, if not sooner.

Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican:
For Sen. Dole, I would ask what her “fix” would be for Social Security and Medicare? Would she support individually controlled investment accounts vs. government-controlled Social Security?

If I could ask her another question, it would be how she plans to correct the impact on our economy brought on by predatory lenders along with the take over of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac?

For Pat McCrory, I would ask how he would turn our state budget back to pre-Demoractic control without raising state taxes and perhaps lowering the gas tax? (We have one of the highest gas taxes in the nation — we are in the top 15 states). I believe our state constitution says we must have a balanced budget and we don’t have one in this administration. If I could ask McCrory another question, it would be his plans to place cable companies under the control of our Utilities Commission. Cable companies are not controlled by the Utilities Commission now but by local governments and of course our attorney general’s office.

Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated:
I would ask Elizabeth Dole what she plans to do about the students in the public school system who are being left behind and are not the students she believes are eligible for vouchers. Vouchers can be beneficial to those students who are already doing well and might get a more rigorous curriculum at a different school. Furthermore, these students would probably excel regardless of the school he or she attended. But several students are being left behind as evidenced by students dropping out of school and students graduating from school who can barely read, write and do simple math equations. The voucher system does not address the students who we need to help the most.

Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat:
I would ask them what principles they use to guide their decision-making process. Good judgment is essential for anyone serving in a leadership capacity. Knowing the values that a candidate keeps in view when approaching an issue gives me a good idea of how they will respond to new problems that arise.

Mike Kelly, 60, Republican:
To Sen. Dole: Where have you been? I mean, is she that sort of political cicada who emerges sexennially and then returns to whence she came? The Honorable Dole not only needs to account for her whereabouts but her how-comes. As in how come her ratings in comparison to other senators are so paltry? Though she is a first-term legislator, she is hardly a rookie, having served in government for decades and we, the good folk of North Carolina, should have benefited more from her experience and proximity to power.

Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat:
I would ask candidates what they will do to help the 15 percent of North Carolina residents without health insurance coverage because of the impact on infant mortality, life expectancy and the quality of life in our state.

Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated:
I would ask Kay Hagan about her position on merit pay for public school teachers. In her information packet, “Education: The knowledge to succeed” (www.kayhagan.com/issues), Hagan goes into great detail about her support of a fully funded No Child Left Behind Act. She is also supporting the addition of alternative measures of improvement to the current tests, tests and more tests system. But it is on these tests that teacher merit pay, or bonuses — another aspect of NCLB’s reward-or-punishment system — are based. And recently, North Carolina’s budget was cut so sharply that the bonuses teachers have earned will be cut by a significant percentage. If North Carolina is to add alternative methods of evaluating its schools’ and teachers’ accountability, how would Hagan figure merit pay into that revision? Does she support the merit pay system at all?

Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat:
What action, if any, would Dole or Hagan support against Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac CEOs who have huge severance packages while Americans are losing their homes? More specifically, how will they approach white-collar corruption?

Regarding the lending crisis, North Carolina fares better than most because of laws against predatory lending, dating to 1999. Noticeably, Sen. Dole supported the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. Kay Hagan is an advocate of financial literacy. The biggest problem, however, isn’t how average Americans use money but the mismanagement and corruption of companies who deal with our money.

Rooting out political party corruption is great conversation these days. Yet few lawmakers seem prepared to address CEO perks and protection, which is part of the larger culture of corruption in Washington. I suspect many of these companies, especially those located in or near the Beltway like Freddie and Fannie, have deep pockets that are able to silence critics on Capitol Hill.

Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican:
What is your position on drilling for oil and natural gas off the coast of North Carolina and what is your rationale for that position?

Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat:
Our politicians in this hotheaded debate over energy policy seem cocksure they’ve each got the only right answer. I’ve spent dozens of hours researching. I found very few definitive answers, and a huge cascade of new questions. Every technical detail seems to have dueling experts and a Pandora’s Box of unintended consequences. We can’t absorb a multitrillion-dollar, 50-year blunder on this. That’s exactly what we’ll get from legislation based on election politics. It worries me half to death.

Maybe candidates have information I can’t find. Will you post online all the raw input you’re getting on energy so we citizens can choose the wisest policies to support?

The members of Voterspeak are looking at whether rifts between Democrats and Republicans will widen or be healed through the 2008 presidential campaign.

As you read down, feel free to add your own thoughts in the comment section.

Question:

Do you believe that the candidates in this presidential campaign will deepen the divide between Democrats and Republicans or will they bridge the great rifts between the political parties? Would you like your candidate to reach out to the opposing political party, or would you rather have them create clearly defined battle lines? Why?

Repsonses:

McCain joined Feingold for the McCain-Feingold law, with Ted Kennedy on immigration reform and with Sen. Lieberman on other issues. ... Obama has rejected public-financing limits, promises to rehash the divisive issue of partial-birth abortion and seeks economic redistribution of earned income. - Jeff Bartolet, 38, Republican

I don't think the two major parties will ever agree on the abortion issue, and of course the definition of middle America and taxes. Energy and health care could be a common meeting ground in the future though. - Phyllis Davis, 64, Republican

I would like to see the candidate I'm voting for to simply make decisions on what he thinks is best for this country and not what will make people happy. - Kendall Garvin, 29, unaffiliated

The Democrats will be more likely to bridge the divide simply because their platform is already appealing to a broader demographic than the Republicans are. - Trevor Hamm, 25, Democrat

Both men should make overtures to others who can effect change in Washington. Politics should be a non-zero-sum strategy where viable solutions from any source are considered. - Mike Kelly, 60, Republican

During the presidential campaign it is important for the candidates to clearly define their priorities and how they intend to achieve them. - Marlene Costa Nielsen, 67, Democrat

Once the election is over, both parties -- including all newly elected representatives, along with the president -- have an obligation to remain true to the citizens that elected them. Neither should be expected to abandon completely the political ideals of their party, but I do expect that each should give some ground in the interest of compromise. - Kate Peeples, 27, unaffiliated

Lively debate is nutrition for democracy; diversity of thought a national blessing. These days, “liberal” and “conservative” have become risque words, akin to a phycological poison to our collective identity. Both candidates use the fear factor -- from the economy to terrorism -- to influence opinion and draw party lines. - Deonna Kelli Sayed, 34, Democrat

John McCain has a proven record of reaching out to the Democratic Party, much to the displeasure of the Republicans. Barack Obama has been in the Senate for three years, most of which he has been running for president. In this period of time he has not worked with Republicans on many issues. - Mike Sigmon, 61, Republican

Candidates/parties thrive on division. They spend additional millions studying how to manipulate our fears and anger, turning out “their” voters. - Ruth Mary Weston, 54, Democrat

Keep reading for full responses from each panel member ...

On Wednesday, we'll close the period to sign up for Voterspeak, so if you're interested in getting on board, do it soon.

Fill out this questionnaire by Aug. 20 and email it to Gerald Witt or Mark Binker, and we'll review it and get back to you in a few days with more info on Voterspeak.