How dating habits can influence how you select a candidate

[frazzled]

5. Mainly, don't "date" your candidates

Something I've learned for myself over the years: never fall in love with a candidate in the first place. It's not healthy, not only for the reasons you suggest (you'll overlook their flaws) but because none of them are perfect. They're just humans stepping out for a job interview.

Selecting or voting for a candidate should not be a love affair. It should be a rational assessment of character, policy, prior accomplishments, leadership qualities, knowledge about and thoughtful, realistic approaches on a broad range of subjects (economics, foreign policy, agriculture and manufacturing, race and gender, etc. etc. etc.). Also, can they articulate their ideas clearly and elegantly? And can they think on their feet? Look to how they run their campaigns to assess how they might run their presidency.

Then go out and support your reasoned choice: donate, canvas, phone bank, etc. But don't ever think you're "dating" them and falling in love.