Candidates need to demonstrate their commitment by their political records or by a detailed indication of what policies and practices they support. The choices they make will define their character. Therefore, a politician who makes platitudinous or evasive answers to important questions is not likely to have the kind of character necessary for leadership.

Likewise, voters should not support a candidate until they have investigated a candidate's choices, both personal and political. Better yet, it would be wise to know a person's motive for running for office.

We need political leaders who, after contemplation and reflection on an issue, have the courage to act in the face of criticism. As a voter, one must ask, "Will this person be commited to serving others while in office. Will this candidate respond to the needs of our community and our nation in a compassionate way?"

Consider the candidate's intelligence and experience. Attend candidate nights, rallies and fundraising campaign events. Listen to the debates or speeches. Ask questions about specific issues, pieces of legislation or proposals. Single out the candidate that more likely holds the same core values you have.

Observe how a candidate runs their campaign. How do they handle their own finances? Are they willing to hold their position in a debate? Do their ads describe their positions accurately, or do they merely portray images and make emotional appeals? What do campaign materials (web sites, e-mails, direct mail letters, campaign brochures) reveal about the candidate?

Investigate who gives to the candidate's campaign, whether Political Action Committees, or individuals. You can do this by checking with Federal, State, or local election finance commissions or by reading newspaper articles that discuss campaign finances.

Learn about a candidate's previous experience in positions of leadership. Did he or she act with integrity? When put to a vote, did the candidate maintain their position on issues you cared about? Does the candidate possess a working knowledge of issues and the community? Has the candidate shown a propensity for accomplishment or failure in positions of leadership?

Know who the candidate is connected to, through party affiliation and know that party's platform. Call the candidate's campaign office or party headquarters and ask others about their opinion of the candidate. Read articles, profiles or press releases about the candidate. Talk to newspaper reporters, political science professors, volunteers, or other community leaders who can vouch for the person's character, or lack thereof. Find the candidate's list of endorsements and interest groups.

All these considerations should give a very real view of what the candidate looks like in office, before you vote for him or her.