I'm probably one of the approximately 40% of registered voters that will actually vote in US elections in five days. However, I just cannot take it anymore especially in these areas...
Negative Ads: I've read the studies that negative ads are more effective than the "touchy feely ads." But, every ad on television, in the newspapers, and on the radio? Every single ad is saying, "This candidate is bad because blah, blah, blah. Vote for our candidate." Did you know that $160 million has been spent on negative ads verses only $17 million on positive ads. This just makes me sick.
Special Interest Groups: These groups paint candidates one way or another on a single issue, usually a hot button or controversial issue - whether it's corruption, national security, immigration, abortion, minimum wage, stem cell research, or whatever. It really doesn't matter what the complete picture of the candidates views and beliefs are. If you disagree or agree with a particular candidate on a single issue, then you must vote for or against this person. Do politicians and election campaigns think that we're uninformed? Do they think we would base our vote on one single issue? That's a pretty arrogant view. Unfortuanately, through the years, we have been lulled into voting in this manner. I don't know how to change the tide on that.
Apathy in the Electorate: I even talk with people at work either at the hospital or at our office. No one really cares. There are actually few people going to vote. I can't understand why. Voting in this democracy is a privilege that is taken for granted. What if the government started limiting the right to vote? What kind of uproar would happen?
This is a nation of immigrants, including my parents. I remember when my parents became naturalized citizens. It was one of the most memorable days of my life and in their lives. I was in high school and we learned together about our democracy and how our government works. They have voted in every single primary election and general election since then. That started over 10 years ago. I think about that when I think about skipping an election.
"The decisions are made by the people who show up." I've heard that saying again and again in one setting or another. And, it is so true. This is my public service announcement from all of us here at the Doctor Anonymous blog (basically me) -- VOTE!
Don't be part of the problem. Be part of the solution. Be proactive. I know it's easy to complain and be frustrated and think that your vote doesn't count. It's easy to think that your vote won't make a difference. I think of all those people around the world who are told what to do, how to think, and basically how to live. I don't ever want to live like that. Go to the polls on Tuesday, you'll be glad that you did. I'm Dr. A, and I approved this message....