If every presidential election is historic, this one may be even more so. For starters, there is the obvious reality of an African-American nominee from a major party. Then there is the oldest candidate yet from a major party. Finally, we have the GOP’s first nomination of a woman on the ticket (Sen. Geraldine Ferraro of the Democrats having gained the Democratic tap 24 years ago with former Vice President Walter Mondale at the ticket’s head).

Sadly, the vicious slander campaigns seemingly at the center of this campaign are not a first in the election process. Indeed, the 2008 presidential contest is as heated as any in recent memory in part due to “the sky is falling” accusations. A quick review of the noxious litany includes accusations of anti-Semitism from top policy advisers of both candidates; likewise with ties to anti-Jewish and offensive religious leaders – the latter relating to Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama and GOP vice presidential pick Gov. Sarah Palin. Then there are cries by both sides that their opponent will sell out Israel when it comes to combating Iran’s clear nuclear threat. Finally, there are outright racist and misogynist sentiments that should be immediately combated.

With all that in mind, it’s far from surprising that the passions of Jewish voters in the race reveals all of this and more. So in these days leading up to the vote itself, we urge everyone to base their knowledge not on the plethora of rumors circulating on the e-mail and Internet. Rather, visit the candidates’ websites to review policies, attend an area forum and speak with sources that you trust. (Hint: Talk radio of any persuasion does not fit that last category.) Mostly, figure out what’s important to you and do the research.

There are indeed major issues to explore for us as both Jews and Americans. Some of that boils down to political philosophy; none of it should be based on fear-mongering.