One thing about politics that amazes me isn't the politicians but the voters. Or better yet, those non-voters. The ones who choose not to practice their right to vote and yet have nothing but negative things to say about our government and leaders. That's why when I recently heard a segment on teen voting, I had to smile. This past February I turned 18 just in time to vote in my states primary, which I did, as did many of my friends my age. And days after the results came out all I heard was the negative remarks of those who disagreed with the outcome. Out of curiosity I had to ask these people (many where complete strangers) if they voted. The answer? No. Most had trivial excuses such as not getting to the poles, didn't know where they should go, forgot or simply didn't want to and it really amazes me. These "adults" can sit around complaining about something but wont even make the effort to vote and try to change something. It's our right, so why not practice it? I'm glad to say I am part of the new generation of voters, the ones that not only care, but actually make a move and vote. Kudos to those teens willing to show mom and dad a thing or two and make it to the pole.
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This is true of many non-voters. One of my favorite campaigns was the "Vote or Die" campaign by Sean "Diddy" Combs a few years ago. It was supposed to incourage young people to vote. Paris Hilton joined his campaign, but guess what?! She didn't even REGISTER. And the whole thing about vote or DIE? What is that?
I agree though, that I am happy to be part of a new generation of voters. I can actually say that I thank Bush for ruining our economy and wasting our countries money because now our generation of voters is new and improved. I think we all know what it is time for, and that is change.
Many people intentionally CHOOSE not to vote because they disagree with the policies of either party running. In this case, they're not really wasting a vote because they're using their vote (or lack there of) to demonstrate their dissatisfaction with the choices.
That's a nice sentiment, but the truth is that the overwhelming majority of non-voters refrain from voting due to apathy or laziness. This is an instance where it's sometimes necessary to pick the lesser of two evils, because boycotting will not be noticed.
~*~ http://www.progressiveu.org/blog/clkuryla ~*~
I was 17 during the 2004 election and most of my friends were 18. I was dying because I was so close yet unable to vote, but whenever I mentioned it, those who were able to vote, though sympathetic, were not planning on voting. It was an incredibly frustrating experience. And I was in Florida so it just made it even worse!!
I'm so happy that the youth is beginning to finally mobilize. I guess there is a silver lining to Bush's disastrous presidency.
~*~ http://www.progressiveu.org/blog/clkuryla ~*~