Political exchanges in the lead-up to the next general election have become so heated that good old common sense has been sidelined as emotions on both sides leave those trying to keep a cool head in a state of utter bewilderment.In much of the current political crossfire these days, truth is tossed out of the window as the incumbent political party scrambles in mounting swells of criticism over their performance over the past 14 years, that many believe has contributed to the economic dilemma that has engulfed Bermuda.Some find it amazing that PLP candidates can with a straight face, walk about various communities claiming that they are the only ones capable of leading Bermuda to a brighter future. Amazing simply because a record of highly questionable matters over the years damaged trust and integrity that cannot be restored over night. Even more amazing is when new candidates tell you without blinking that they intend to right the ship, which has been listing badly from riding rough seas of doubt and confusion.In the first place, the electorate is not dumb and they are fully aware that in the world of politics anything goes when it comes to seeking votes to either remain in power or in the case of the opposition, gain sufficient support to take over command to move Bermuda in another direction.It is truly a testing time for the populace who know through the democratic process they have the power to retain or hire new management. A quick glance across the pond at the fury raging between the Democrats and the Republicans, over the upcoming presidential election indicates clearly how vital it is for Americans to have the final say via the ballot box.As former US President Bill Clinton, recently stated, those who fail to be a part of the process, will be in no position to grumble later. In the US, the term political flip-flop is generally used when it is perceived that a candidate shifts his or her position according to what is likely to gain voter support.No democratic jurisdiction is totally free of this element in the political process, and it usually is up to the people who are affected by decisions, to detect which group is being truthful before they cast their ballot. In a nutshell it boils down to who can be trusted.We need to move to higher level of respectability in expressing a different viewpoint. No one should be ostracised for rejecting a particular political party which is the right of every citizen in a democratic society.For example, a popular black American female singer was recently bitterly criticised for publicly stating that she supported Mitt Romney, the Republican candidate for President. It was a clear case of how someone exercising their democratic right, could be slammed for not having what many consider the popular view point among blacks.Giant entertainment magnate, Tyler Perry, commenting on the onslaught of criticism said it was wrong to condemn a person for exercising their freedom of choice. He stressed it was particularly tricky when someone is very much in the spotlight, especially with the history of struggle in the black community. His view was that President Obama is not just a black President, but he is President of the United States.The bottom line here is that in a fever pitch political atmosphere too often, emotions overrun what is logical and right.In our small society we have more than enough bitterness in the air between one political group and another, as we inch towards the day when the electorate will have a chance have the last word in deciding our direction as a people.No matter the outcome, when the ballots are counted and the verdict is in, we still have to rise the next day to face problems never seen before, Crime, joblessness, education, housing, healthcare to name a few. In other words there is hardly room to dance and celebrate. There will be those who will be elated at the result, and those who will be bitterly disappointed.The real challenge will be how well we heal and collectively apply ourselves to improving the Bermuda we all want to be proud of. It is going to be rough road, but it must be travelled to reach the high ground of tolerance, understanding and cooperation needed to achieve success.