I do think that standing silent, refusing to participate, can be a valid form of protest. It is most effective, I think, when there is no other form of protest to make. As you say, in the Districts there was absolutely no other way to protest.
As to not voting, I am ambivalent. I know there have been times when I have skipped certain races on the ballot because I liked neither choice, but I've always voted for President. I suppose if one truly felt that both men were so bad that you could not even vote for the lesser of two evils, then skipping that race would be a good form of protest.
Yet I don't feel that it's quite so dire this year. I think Romney would be a disaster, and Ryan would be even worse if he had to take over. President Obama has not always made the best decisions, but I feel like in general he's leading us in the right direction.
However, I'd say of all the reasons for not voting, yours would work for me. It's a decision you would be making after giving it a lot of thought and consideration. Most people who say they don't vote are not exercising their right out of apathy, and don't give any thought to the process at all. I've had many who've told me that politics are boring and voting is inconvenient.
My fears for this election year are that we'll see a repeat of 2000. I don't think I could stand it if that happens again.
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branchandroot
no subject
Date: 2012-10-09 03:44 am (UTC)As to not voting, I am ambivalent. I know there have been times when I have skipped certain races on the ballot because I liked neither choice, but I've always voted for President. I suppose if one truly felt that both men were so bad that you could not even vote for the lesser of two evils, then skipping that race would be a good form of protest.
Yet I don't feel that it's quite so dire this year. I think Romney would be a disaster, and Ryan would be even worse if he had to take over. President Obama has not always made the best decisions, but I feel like in general he's leading us in the right direction.
However, I'd say of all the reasons for not voting, yours would work for me. It's a decision you would be making after giving it a lot of thought and consideration. Most people who say they don't vote are not exercising their right out of apathy, and don't give any thought to the process at all. I've had many who've told me that politics are boring and voting is inconvenient.
My fears for this election year are that we'll see a repeat of 2000. I don't think I could stand it if that happens again.