Conservative voters face choice of lesser of two evils

Franklin Graham offered some good advice to Nebraskans during the Lincoln stop on his Decision America Tour Wednesday.

Get involved, he said, don't be afraid to apply Christian values to government and participate in this year's election, even if they have to vote "for the lesser of two evils."

Graham, son of famous evangelist Billy Graham, urged a crowd of thousands on the Capitol's front steps to run for office and support candidates who follow biblical principles.

The same advice holds for citizens of all stripes, who have the chance to influence the direction of their country through the democratic process.

But Franklin Graham's audience would do well to heed the admonition of Jesus himself, who warned his followers he was "sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves."

Pro-life Nebraska voters should have learned that lesson a decade ago when David Hergert used their passionate views on a single issue to gain office.

Hergert violated campaign finance laws to deprive long-time University of Nebraska Regent Don Blank of campaign funds and agreed to a $33,512 settlement.

He ignored a 31-0 legislative resolution calling for him to resign, was impeached on a 25-22 vote and was finally tried before the Nebraska Supreme Court and removed from office in 2006.

Socially conservative voters will have a difficult presidential choice this fall, between one who holds many positions they oppose, one who may be only offering those positions lip service, and who both have serious moral failings.

Making the right choice this fall will challenge even the shrewdest of snakes and most innocent of doves.