Politics - What Is There to Gain By Being Negative?

There is only one thing about October / November that I struggle with - Politics. With all of the political posts, debates, commercials, etc. it seems like people feel that there is something to gain by being mean, negative and on the attack.  I am sure you all know what I am talking about.  This year seems to really have some "hot" issues that people are really being vocal about.  
The other day I was watching a debate on TV.  I can't remember who it was, because the candidates are not on the ballot in my area, but I found it very interesting.  They were asked the hard questions and they both answered the questions with passion and evidence of their knowledge.  There were some questions that they agreed on and they were not afraid to acknowledge that.  When they didn't agree on a topic they didn't attack each other, but answered the question with what they believed.  At the end of the debate they thanked each other and I truly believe they meant it. 
Most of the time I would say that at the end of a debate they say thank you, but don't mean it.  Why would I say that?  Because in most debates they are attacking each other.  They are out to prove why the other person is wrong and they are right.  Honestly, most of the debate is spent on proving the other person wrong than getting across what their platform is.  By the end of the debate I don't know anymore than I knew at the beginning of it, besides they don't have respect for people. 
About a year and a half ago I went to a district meeting where the room was packed with people.  Standing room, packed against the wall, was all that was available.  There were lots of people there that opposed what was being talked about.  I didn't mind that they opposed the subject, but I did mind how all of these adults acted.  They didn't wait for the presenter to finish their sentence or their presentation with a promise to stay and answer questions until every question was answered.  Instead, they stood and yelled, called names, cheered each other on and honestly I thought a riot was about to start.  I only stayed for about half of the meeting, because it was really upsetting to me that these adults felt that this behavior was alright.  I honestly don't think anything was accomplished in this meeting for either side.  
This year we have many tight races, the common core issue at hand and in Pleasant Grove we have the bond.  With all of these things around me I am seeing lots of posts attacking people.  Not the issues at hand, but people.  Instead of only the facts and each side presenting what they stand for they are digging up dirt, throwing people under the bus and becoming very argumentative.  
I am very educated on the issues at hand.  I have sat in plenty of meetings and done my own research.  I do listen and read both sides, but as soon as a side attacks or makes things negative and bashing I quit reading.  Are these the people I want to represent me long term?  Do I believe they really have the peoples interest at hand or just their own agenda?  If they handle the debates, facebook and commercials in this manner under heat, trying to get elected, how will they be once elected?  It's kindof that whole "honeymoon" stage.  We should be seeing the best in people before election.
Plus, those that use scare tactics, why?  Why do we want to create fear in people?  I don't believe anything good comes from fear.  Why do we want to create a divide in a community?  Why do we intentionally put things out there that will hurt and have a lasting impact on a community past the vote?  Why create a divide?  That doesn't benefit anyone.  
So, for me "JUST THE FACTS PLEASE."  Let's work together and strive to make a positive difference.
For those that know me, I am never vocal on politics in a public manner.  It has taken a lot for me to write this post, because I want everyone to play nice and don't want to be a part of the negativity that comes with politics.  I will ask questions, do the research and even speak with people in a small setting, but I won't engage in the negative bashing on Facebook, in any kind of setting.  I believe that in politics points can be made and facts laid out for me in a neutral - positive setting to make an educated decision.  I am happy to answer questions as I understand them and I make sure I vote so that my voice is heard.  My vote does count and it's important for others to recognize that too. 

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