About the Common Sense Politics Blog by ADMIN on MAY 24, 2009 The Common Sense Politics Blog is a product of many discussions between Michael Fiala and Brian Crane over a period of several months in early 2009. The discussions centered around the media … public opinion … how the electorate is presented information on important issues … and how the underlying context and presentation of that information influences voting behavior. Out of these discussions a recurring theme emerged: News and information in this country is biased in one direction or the other. And too many people of good common sense — for a variety of reasons — feel shut out of the conversation. So, as Brian and I tend to prefer action over endless debate, the next question we asked ourselves was, “What can we do about it?” And the idea to start this blog was born. We ran the idea by several friends and associates who responded enthusiastically enough for us to invest some time, money, and energy in the project. In fact, not only were they enthusiastic as readers, but several volunteered to be regular contributors as well. And here we are. Our mission is simple: To encourage common sense debate of political issues, inspire creative thinking, suggest solutions, inform and entertain. We hope this blog provides you with a forum you trust for reliable information, well written commentary, and common sense solutions to the problems and issues we face as citizens of the United States of America. Michael Fiala May 24, 2009 Mason City, Iowa