Ever since the Humane Society Legislative Fund announced our endorsement of Barack Obama, our inbox has been full with emails from members on the issue. Many of you appreciated the information about the candidates’ records so you can share it with the animal lovers among your friends and family. Some lifelong Republicans are even crossing party lines for the first time to support the candidate who is better on animal issues. A few of you asked why we focused so heavily on Sarah Palin's terrible record on animal cruelty, and didn't say enough about John McCain (for those who wondered, McCain scored 25 percent on the most recent Humane Scorecard, compared to 75 percent for Obama).
Several people said they don’t think we should get involved in politics, and they will decide which candidate to support based on issues other than animal protection. We understand that view. But we believe that if animal protection is ever going to occupy an important place in the political debate in this country, there must be accountability on our issues. If we do not make an assessment of the animal protection policies of candidates, no one else will. And, as a consequence, they will see our movement as a largely irrelevant political constituency and they will never compete for our support.
The cause of animals is broad and bipartisan, and it attracts support from all ends of the political spectrum. HSLF works with both Democrats and Republicans who advance the humane treatment of animals. And we support them in their elections, too, so they can continue to fight for animal protection policies. In order to pass humane laws, we need to elect humane lawmakers—and we need to make tough choices in elections when the stakes are so high for animals.
Here's a sample of pro and con reaction:
I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. I’m a liberal for women’s rights, gay rights, animal rights, etc. I’m fiscally conservative—not a fan of how either side spends our money. I’ve always voted Democratic, but I’m not really a fan of Obama. I like some things about McCain—cutting spending and when he wanted to protect wildlife areas, so I thought I might actually vote for him. I knew of wolf-killer Palin (from Defenders of Wildlife) and after hearing about her being selected, I was contemplating not voting at all. After reading your article and finding out that Biden is such a supporter of animals and wildlife I have decided to vote for them. Thank you for helping me decide! —Susanna L.
And due to this one issue, which ultimately affects all others, I, the big McCain supporter as an Air Force vet will NOW CHANGE my vote to Senator Obama. Thank you for taking the stand you have. I will be forwarding your letter to everyone I know. —Evelyn S.
Hello, I have been a supporter of HSLF and other animal and wildlife organizations for years and I'm a staunch defender of humane treatment of animals. However, I have to draw the line when organizations such as the HSLF endorse a particular candidate for president. When one votes for president or any other legislator, he or she must look at the entire package. Rarely does one vote based on one issue. I have to say that political endorsements by HSLF and other like organizations has really turned me off. —Maria S.
This has caused a real dilemma for me. I am very much for what McCain/Palin stand for politically…but just as firm in my animal issues that Obama/Biden stand for. So no matter who win this election…I’ll lose out on issues extremely important to me. So do I vote for what’s best for my country or what will save animals from pain, suffering, cruelty and death?—Shelley R.
I am so glad that HSLF has decided to weigh in on such an important matter. Ever since I started reading up on Ms. Palin, I’ve been getting more and more nervous (OK, terrified, actually) about her credentials and past actions. Thank you for taking a stand we can all get behind. —Mell S.
Thank you for this important information. I am, in general, a more conservative voter and had intended to vote McCain. Although I agree with a number of his stances there are a few I have a problem with so I was really struggling this year with sticking with my party. However, after reading this article my decision is clear. Animal rights is an issue that I hold as one of the most important issues we need to consider. I want someone in office who will be a staunch defender of animal rights and it seems that Obama is the obvious choice. —Michele
I’m utterly thrilled that the HSLF has chosen to endorse Obama/Biden! Sarah Palin is probably the most anti-animal politician out there. And the fact that John McCain would not fill out your questionnaire is repulsive. They are obviously too busy trying to drill anywhere they can or joining a canned hunt. I applaud the HSLF for all they do for animals and thank them for fighting the good fight. —Karomy H.
Based on this information, I will no longer donate any money to HSLF. I don’t believe there is any reason for HSLF to be endorsing anyone for president. While I am 100% for the protection of animals, in light of the fact that you are basing this endorsement (supposedly) on the basis of only one criteria, and in the process influencing a lot of people who will not look at all of the important issues facing our country, I see this as irresponsible. —Debby Y.
As a supporter of HSLF, I just wanted to say that, as much as I push for passage of animal friendly legislation, I would certainly not pick my president based solely on animal issues…I am not crazy about McCain’s choice for running mate, but that will not make me vote for Obama-Biden. In fact, I am once again voting Libertarian. So, please, do not send me any more emails touting Obama. —Sheila T.
I feel your choice of Obama is largely due to your dislike of Sarah Palin and the hunting in Alaska. Your job is not to influence anyone and your opinion is just that—your opinion. I do not share your opinion and you should stick to what you do—protect animals and not politic for anyone. I share your views on animals—not your views on candidates so refrain from sending me anymore of your opinions about Obama. —Judy D.
