I like to think that I vote on what I believe is right. If faith influences what I view as just, then yes, I do allow faith values to affect my vote. But I readily concede politics is a game of compromise, and sometimes you need to choose the lesser of two evils.

Naturally, I don’t presume to speak for all American-Muslims. There are plenty of Muslims, voting Democrat, voting Republican, voting Nader or for whatever reason, not voting at all.

First of all, it’s important to vote. Muslims are commanded to improve their communities and societies, and I believe voting is one way to effect change.

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, once said, “Whoever sees something evil should change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot do even that, then in his heart. That is the weakest degree of faith.” Voting is one of my ways of confronting societal ills.

Justice is the guiding principle I use when voting or make any major decision.

My basis is that God enjoins justice in multiple places in the Quran, one of which is: “Oh you who believe! Stand out firmly for God, bearing witness to the truth in all equity; and never let hatred of anyone lead you into the sin of deviating from justice. Be Just: this is closest to being God-conscious. And remain conscious of God: verily, God is aware of all that you do” (Chapter 5, verse 8).

In this national election I’m faced with two candidates for president. Although to me the choice appears obvious (Obama, duh!), neither candidate fulfills all my expectations. But looking at Obama’s plans for social justice and his stance on (most) foreign policies, I’m willing to overlook other areas that I find objectionable.

Voting usually isn’t only about choosing between two candidates. There are often ballot measures. What does Islam say about voting on Proposition 1, the proposition to expand light rail in the greater Seattle area? Not much. It really is a cost-benefit analysis. But take for example the 2004 Initiative-892, which sought to expand the locations slot machines could be used, in return for its generated tax revenue being used to reduce state property taxes.

I voted against I-892 because I felt it wasn’t right to use something as morally dubious as slot machines, even if some people stood to gain. The Quran is pretty explicit about gambling (and alcohol for the matter), mentioning that, “In both there is great evil as well as some benefit for people; but the evil which they cause is greater than the benefit which they bring” (Chapter 2, part of verse 219).

My faith also orders me to be just, which makes me more likely to vote for righteous causes, whether it personally benefits me or not. That type of faith-based voting is positive in my opinion.

Reach columnist Zakariya Dehlawi at opinion@uwdaily.com.