Throughout the state of Texas, there are many political problems, and they all revolve around one central idea. In Texas's case, some bases of their politics are a mixture between classical liberalism, social conservatism, and populism ("Political Culture and Political Ideology in Texas"). Classical liberalism consists of "doing your own thing", and is elaborated as political freedom as well as civil liberty independence ("Political Culture and Political Ideology in Texas"). Social conservatism is based on the traditional way of doing things, which explains why the Republican Party has had the majority vote, since Texas has always been historically Republicans ("Political Culture and Political Ideology …show more content…
in Texas").
Populism is similar to the representation of the "middle child". This ideology serves as the buffer between classical liberalism and social conservation; therefore, relieving the tensions amongst the two ("Political Culture and Political Ideology in Texas"). Also, populism stages to be "the people" of an issue; like democracy, populism gives the citizens their wanted inputs ("Political Culture and Political Ideology in Texas"). Along with the ideologies, there are many different beliefs in Texas that other states might not agree with. With the recent nationally passed approval of same-sex marriage, Texas responded and fought to keep it unlawful in the state of Texas, but eventually they lost (Espinoza). Although Texas proposed over 20 anti-LGBTQ laws, they were shot down by the nation's government (Stein). With this disapproval, Texas passed a state law that protects pastors from being required to marry gay and lesbians (Stein); therefore, demonstrating the social conservatism aspect of Texas, by protecting the states tradition of not allowing same-sex marriage. With the world constantly changing, we cannot be
completely certain what might change in Texas, we can only hope for the best.
Consider your own level of political engagement. When and how did you first become aware of political issues?
I have always been curious about the governments' political issues from the beginning, so I consider myself to be very aware of the politics and political decisions that occur within Texas, United States, and the world. Whether the matter is very important or not so important, I still want to know all the knowledge for me to make a relevant opinion. I think I first became politically aware, after I learned the true meaning of what happened during the 9-11-01 terrorist attack on the United States. Before I gained the information of what occurred on that horrific day, I would just glance at the news from time to time, but ever since that day, I have never missed my daily news broadcast. I constantly feed myself with the governments' issues so that I am fully aware of what is going on around me, and this in my opinion, keeps me safe.
What is your level of interest and engagement in the political process?
I am very interested in the political process of our governments, and honestly, I do not remember the last time that I did not watch the news. Every morning I either watch the local news channel or I watch the Today's Show. If I miss the chance in the morning, I will come home after school and work and gather my missed information on the late-night premier of the local news. Although politics highly interest me, I cannot officially put my opinions out in the world. This is because I am only 17 years of age. In November I will finally meet the required qualifications to vote, but I will not be 18 until after the general popularity voting process for president. This year's nominees might not be my favorite of choices, but I would like for my vote to play a role in the decision soon. With me becoming closer to the required age, I am very eager to officially become a voice that matters in society.