help?

A few of my friends here at school at liberals. Or at least democrats. I was raised conservative republican. That in and of itself, just the knowledge I mean, can be a cause of friction. However, it's usually not, except when they start to talk about politics. Then I have no idea what to say. They are both Christians, but have VERY different views on the presidency, and particularly the war, than I do. I have talked to my dad about it, and he tried to answer my questions, as I don't normally pay attention to politics(it's not my "thing" you see :) )but just asking him what to say isn't helping enough. Either I don't remember what he says, or they bring up something more that I didn't ask him about, and therefore don't have the information to begin with. So, can you guys recommend some websites(I don't have radio, and I don't really have the time to watch the t.v. when the news shows are on) that I could go to to read up on a) some of the causes behind the war, because I know it wasn't just an invasion tactic, because Bush is war happy. b) presidential candidates(as the election is coming up, I should probably know something about who I am going to vote for before I vote for them :) )and c) any random political issues that could become major topics of discussion in the future, or anything at all so that I don't sound dumb when trying to say something about this particular area? I would REALLY appreciate it! thanks! :)