More on the Family Election Guide

In a recent post, we talked with Dr. Elaine Anderson about the work she and her students did in putting together the 2008 Family Election Guide. Today, the Healthy Turtle talks with Patricia L. Fanflik (MS, MA) and April R. McDowell (MS) about their role in putting the guide together. Specifically, Fanflik complied the section on Early Childhood Education and Development, and McDowell put together the section on National Health Care.

The Healthy Turtle: What was the most interesting issue position that you found for your particular section?

Patricia L. Fanflik: I thought both candidates covered the topic of early childhood development and education fairly well but I was most interested in their positions regarding “No Child Left Behind” and possible solutions to reform this law. As a side note, I was thrilled to see how both candidates relied on the social science research to support or enhance their particular position.

HT: What about the most interesting difference between the two candidates?

Fanflik: Both candidates stressed the importance of programs such as Head Start to bolster early childhood education but varied considerably on program implementation and possible funding streams. Additionally, one candidate seemed to have a more comprehensive plan that regarded family participation as a crucial component in the success of a child centered program.

April R. McDowell: I think the most interesting difference between these candidates is how each of them propose improving our health care access and costs. Creating a national health plan is very different from giving families tax credits for purchasing private insurance plans. However, what I find even more interesting are the similarities between the two candidates regarding their views on national health care, though it doesn't seem that many Americans are focusing on their similarities.

In terms of similarities, I think there's been too much emphasis on both sides on access and cost issues related to health care and not enough attention on other key issues that affect family health like quality. Getting more Americans insured won't go very far if their health plans don't provide a high standard of care. Overall, I think that whether we're discussing positives or negatives for the candidates it may serve us better in the long term to focus more on their similarities than their differences and how both parties can unite to improve health care in America regardless of who is commander in chief.

HT: Are there any issues in your sections that you wish the candidates were discussing but aren't?

McDowell: I appreciate the fact that both candidates have addressed special health care issues, particularly special needs children. However, I believe there has not been enough emphasis on special needs issues for children outside of autism. Autism seems to be the hot topic at the moment (I think in part due to media coverage) but there are many more special health care needs of children (and adults for that matter!) that require the candidates attention.

Fanflik: When examining the topic of education for all age groups, I was hoping to see more about student loans and manageable pay back options for students. I have concerns and question the regulatory system in place to oversee and hopefully protect students.

HT: Are you planning to vote on Tuesday?

Fanflik: I am definitely voting on Tuesday!! It’s a responsibility I take very seriously. If you don’t vote, you don’t have a voice!

McDowell: I'm definitely voting on Tuesday! Even if it takes all day (which I suspect it will) there is too much riding on this election to not include my vote!