Election 2008 Resources
NAMI is driving the debate on mental illness during this election season. One out of four Americans is affected by mental illness at some point during their lifetimes and mental illness does not discriminate between Democrats or Republicans. Visit the NAMI Newsroom to learn why mental health must be part of the national dialogue on healthcare.
NAMI’s election page offers a range of nonpartisan materials for voters interested in raising mental health issues during the federal, state, and local elections.
During the primaries, Senator Obama answered 24 specific questions on a NAMI mental health questionnaire. Senator McCain provided a statement in lieu of specific answers. His campaign noted that it was not his policy to reply to questionnaires. Read the candidates’ responses and explore party mental health platforms online.
The positions are offered as part of public education. As a non-profit organization, NAMI does not endorse political candidates. Be an informed voter! Learn the positions of candidates and parties before you vote.
Many people living with mental illness and their families have questions about voting rights and voter registration. Here are some resources to consider:
Vote. It’s Your Right: A Guide to the Voting Rights of People with Mental Disabilities
By the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law and National Disability Rights Network.
Available online at the Bazelon Center Web site.
The National Campaign for Fair Elections
The National Campaign for Fair Elections provides a link to online voter registration and information about what to do if you experience
problems voting. They also operate a call line with lawyers who are available to give individuals, including those with mental illness,
advice and help with registration questions and any problems with voting. The number is 1 (866) OURVOTE (1 (866) 687-8683).
Health08.org
On Health08.org, the Kaiser Family Foundation provides election news, analysis, and events—and extensive videos / podcasts with national health policy experts and candidates.
Polling Report
PollingReport.com is an independent, nonpartisan resource where you can view a wide range of public opinion polls.
FactCheck.org
FactCheck.org is a nonpartisan, nonprofit project of the Annenberg PublicPolicy Centerof the Universityof Pennsylvaniathat provides an unbiased look at the facts behind political ads and comments of major U.S. politicians.
Presidential Candidate Sites
Senator John McCain
Official Web site of the McCain campaign
Senator Barack Obama
Official Web site of the Obama campaign
