April D. Ryan

The U.S. inflation rate is at its highest level in 17 years. Rising food and energy prices are to blame. Over the past year, inflation rose by 5.6 percent. That is the largest 12-month gain since 1991. The inflation numbers are expected to rise even more, when the Federal Government enters the new fiscal year. Fiscal year 2009 begins in October, with a budget deficit of $482 billion. An economic analyst from The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies finds the projected deficit will create a spike in inflation. He also contends minority communities would be hit the hardest as they have not recovered from the 2001 recession. Where do you draw the line to accommodate a worsening economy? Or, are you already doing so?

Gas prices are said to be partly to blame for hikes in inflation. Check the prices at the pump around the country. http://www.fuelgaugereport.com/

This Presidential contest is close. Single digit percentages separate Senators McCain and Obama. Critics belive there should a larger margin, when the majority of Americans want change. Pollsters believe one indicator is the 2007 elections. That voting process created a political shift in favor of the Democratic Party.  This Presidential election may or may not be decided by politics. Issues that are helping to shape this contest are the Iraq War, the economy, energy, abortion and immigration. But race, religion and culture are said to be factors too. What will be the determining factor for you at the polls? What are the major issues as to why you plan to vote for the candidate you support?