I've posted this message before, but I'd like to urge all U.S. animal-friendly people to take their national and state candidates' position on animal welfare into consideration when they are choosing who to support. Please visit www.humaneusa.org and click on your state to find which candidates have taken a stand for the protection of animals. Humane USA is also endorsing John Kerry for President. Although Kerry has unfortunately gone on a few hunting trips with news reporters in tow, keep in mind that Bush hunts as well (Cheney even went on a vertiable massacre at a canned shoot in Pennsylvania). All things considered, Kerry has the much stronger position on animal welfare--such as taking a stand against cruel puppy mills. It is important to consider all of your beliefs when voting. If you care about animals, please put their well-being into the equation when you're deciding who most closely aligns with your values. In several states, animal protection measures are on the ballot. By voting for animal protection, you can help save many more animals than you ever could as an individual. For a guide to animal-related ballot measures, please visit http://www.hsus.org/ace/21631 . Here's to a banner year for animal protection in the U.S. !