Renee Ordway has written that she would vote for Obama, not because he was African-American, “and certainly not because I’m certain he’ll do everything right,” but because she has a choice, and she wishes to fulfill her right to choose.

I would disagree with that conclusion.

The president-elect takes an oath of office to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America, “so help me God.” Our purpose in voting should be, as best we can discern it, to put in office those who will best sustain and maintain our way of life, our freedom and our constitutional form of government.

Of course, this choice depends upon our concept of what it means to uphold and defend the Constitution. To that end, not popularity, charisma or the ability to persuade through rhetorical eloquence, but the candidates’ proposed programs, policies and position on the issues effecting the election should govern the choice we make.

Every citizen therefore has the responsibility to inquire into the background, education, political views, character and integrity of the candidates to determine who is best qualified for the office. Anything less would betray our Constitution to politicians who are untrue to the oath they swear, or who would not perform in such a manner as to fulfill their constitutional requirement to protect and defend our Constitution.

Kenneth Lane

Princeton