Forums > Social Discussion > Do you Vote?
Login/Join to ParticipateGOLD Member
Pirate Pixie Crew Captain
8,428 posts
Location: Wales
Pirate Pixie Crew Captain
8,428 posts
Location: Wales
Posted:
Today in Wales it was a day to vote. We had 2 votes. As explained why here.
I had a really hard time picking who to vote for as most of them seem to be full of empty promises if not lies. Even so I went along and put my X's in the boxes.
This got me to thinking, why don't they have a "None of the Above" box to mark. That way if you really don't like any of the candidates you can still have your voice heard. "Spoil your ballot paper" I hear some of you cry. Well that to me doesn't say "none of the above" because it could just be that you made a mistake. I guess I could have written across it "none of the above" ... Hmmm.... But that still wouldn't get counted.
I wonder just how many people don't vote because of this reason. They just can't find anyone they want to put their X next to, so they don't bother going.
So, dear HoPpers I thought I'd do a poll here.
Please pick one from each question (even if you are not eligible to vote answer as if you were please).
[edit] the second question should be Would you like the option on the ballot paper to mark "None of the above" Sorry about that, I'm not sure where the end of the question went.
EDITED_BY: Skulduggery (1178202278)
Today in Wales it was a day to vote. We had 2 votes. As explained why here.
I had a really hard time picking who to vote for as most of them seem to be full of empty promises if not lies. Even so I went along and put my X's in the boxes.
This got me to thinking, why don't they have a "None of the Above" box to mark. That way if you really don't like any of the candidates you can still have your voice heard. "Spoil your ballot paper" I hear some of you cry. Well that to me doesn't say "none of the above" because it could just be that you made a mistake. I guess I could have written across it "none of the above" ... Hmmm.... But that still wouldn't get counted.
I wonder just how many people don't vote because of this reason. They just can't find anyone they want to put their X next to, so they don't bother going.
So, dear HoPpers I thought I'd do a poll here.
Please pick one from each question (even if you are not eligible to vote answer as if you were please).
[edit] the second question should be Would you like the option on the ballot paper to mark "None of the above" Sorry about that, I'm not sure where the end of the question went.
EDITED_BY: Skulduggery (1178202278)
Feed me Chocolate!!! Feed me NOW!
geek, level 1
5,300 posts
Location: everywhere
5,300 posts
Location: everywhere
Posted:
off to vote
(green
)
off to vote
(green
) Holistic Spinner (I hope)
BRONZE Member
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Still wiggling
5,967 posts
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK)
Posted:
A green party rep was elected in my constituency in Northern Ireland for the first time ever here in the last elections...
Hurrah!
Go Brian Wilson
(And North Down is a very traditionally conservative, Protestant, middle-class, loyally-Unionist stronghold. The fact Mr Wilson beat off the divided Unionist vote is even more reason to cheer
)
But anyways... Everyone should vote... at every opportunity!
It's so, so important to use the only real voice you have... because it's apathy that allows the government to get away with murder.
A green party rep was elected in my constituency in Northern Ireland for the first time ever here in the last elections...
Hurrah!
Go Brian Wilson
(And North Down is a very traditionally conservative, Protestant, middle-class, loyally-Unionist stronghold. The fact Mr Wilson beat off the divided Unionist vote is even more reason to cheer
)But anyways... Everyone should vote... at every opportunity!
It's so, so important to use the only real voice you have... because it's apathy that allows the government to get away with murder.
Getting to the other side 
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
have no permanent address anymore, but when I did I was not missing a single time to go voting.
the option "none of the above" is a good idea, because it would show that ppl just don't feel represented by the given choices, hence would vote IF they'd have the "right" option to.
sure many people are tired of politicks and the "icians", but not voting is the wrong signal. At least we can vote for the least of bad options... (as in environmental parties - which were my choice, apart from social democrats) - I have no problem in displaying my political point of views and choices, as you can see. I would even vote in public, stand in for my belief.
2 Baht from my side
have no permanent address anymore, but when I did I was not missing a single time to go voting.
the option "none of the above" is a good idea, because it would show that ppl just don't feel represented by the given choices, hence would vote IF they'd have the "right" option to.
sure many people are tired of politicks and the "icians", but not voting is the wrong signal. At least we can vote for the least of bad options... (as in environmental parties - which were my choice, apart from social democrats) - I have no problem in displaying my political point of views and choices, as you can see. I would even vote in public, stand in for my belief.
2 Baht from my side
the best smiles are the ones you lead to 
SILVER Member
Carpal \'Tunnel
4,172 posts
Location: Hastings, United Kingdom
Carpal \'Tunnel
4,172 posts
Location: Hastings, United Kingdom
Posted:
So today was the first time I've been old enough to vote.
I didn't.
A few people rather insultingly said "Were you too scared and didnt know what you were doing?". I may deal with a little anxiety but I'm sure if I wanted to I'd be capable of standing in a booth and putting an X in the box you'd think?
I've been doing alot of reading the past week or so, and an article in a little local magazine pretty much made up my mind about not voting.
Each party had a little interview.
Green Party
A bit 'limp'. She basically talks about introducing better public transport and the introuction of walking school buses, and her involment with the Woodcraft folk youth group.
United Kingdom Independance Party
He talks alot about how he looks after his dying wife, and complains that the local swimming pool should have been been made a sports centre.
Conservative Party
Was un-available for comment. Sections from his canvassing flyers were re-printed instead. Talks about 'getting your views on anti-social behaviour'.
I know I'm taking this quite literally, but - my views? Anti-social behaviour? Bloody awesome it is! Please steal plants from my garden, then drink a whole bottle of smirnoff ice and be sick on my doorstep. I'd love that.
Liberal Democrats
This Q&A pretty much sums things up..
"What do you plan to do if elected"
"I'll worry about that when it happens"
British National Party
Where do I start?
Whilst all the other candidates photos show them smiling in smart clothes, this guys stares at the camera bluntly, showing a sports t-shirt, shaved head and gold hoop earrings.
"Anybody of Western European origin can join the BNP automatically. Other groups can join on merit. I'd need to talk to them first, see why that person came here. If I was happy that they were british for the right reasons, they could join."
"We haven't canvassed yet, though we've had good feedback from the pub"
..this guys whole interview is a joke, but I'll leave it at that I think..
Labour
Actually, one of the better interviws, hhowever its unfortunatly soiled by the Labour government we posess at the momant.
So, with that lot to pick from - I just couldnt
Call me stupid, acuse me off being 'too scared to go to the polling station', tell me I've wasted a vote, but quite frankly I don't want to associate myself with any of those parties!
EDITED_BY: Aimée (1178226198)
So today was the first time I've been old enough to vote.
I didn't.
A few people rather insultingly said "Were you too scared and didnt know what you were doing?". I may deal with a little anxiety but I'm sure if I wanted to I'd be capable of standing in a booth and putting an X in the box you'd think?
I've been doing alot of reading the past week or so, and an article in a little local magazine pretty much made up my mind about not voting.
Each party had a little interview.
Green Party
A bit 'limp'. She basically talks about introducing better public transport and the introuction of walking school buses, and her involment with the Woodcraft folk youth group.
United Kingdom Independance Party
He talks alot about how he looks after his dying wife, and complains that the local swimming pool should have been been made a sports centre.
Conservative Party
Was un-available for comment. Sections from his canvassing flyers were re-printed instead. Talks about 'getting your views on anti-social behaviour'.
I know I'm taking this quite literally, but - my views? Anti-social behaviour? Bloody awesome it is! Please steal plants from my garden, then drink a whole bottle of smirnoff ice and be sick on my doorstep. I'd love that.
Liberal Democrats
This Q&A pretty much sums things up..
"What do you plan to do if elected"
"I'll worry about that when it happens"
British National Party
Where do I start?
Whilst all the other candidates photos show them smiling in smart clothes, this guys stares at the camera bluntly, showing a sports t-shirt, shaved head and gold hoop earrings.
"Anybody of Western European origin can join the BNP automatically. Other groups can join on merit. I'd need to talk to them first, see why that person came here. If I was happy that they were british for the right reasons, they could join."
"We haven't canvassed yet, though we've had good feedback from the pub"
..this guys whole interview is a joke, but I'll leave it at that I think..
Labour
Actually, one of the better interviws, hhowever its unfortunatly soiled by the Labour government we posess at the momant.
So, with that lot to pick from - I just couldnt
Call me stupid, acuse me off being 'too scared to go to the polling station', tell me I've wasted a vote, but quite frankly I don't want to associate myself with any of those parties!
EDITED_BY: Aimée (1178226198)
BRONZE Member
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Posted:
Voting is compulsory in Australia therefore I always vote (ok, so I've always voted only twice, one federal and one state cos I'm still only a young'un)
But while a "none of the above" option sounds pretty, think of the nightmare behind it. If the results came back with "none of the above" chosen, then we would never change parliament as we'd be spending all our time having elections til the "none of the above" box was satisfied, and no one is every satisfied with politics.
Voting is compulsory in Australia therefore I always vote (ok, so I've always voted only twice, one federal and one state cos I'm still only a young'un)
But while a "none of the above" option sounds pretty, think of the nightmare behind it. If the results came back with "none of the above" chosen, then we would never change parliament as we'd be spending all our time having elections til the "none of the above" box was satisfied, and no one is every satisfied with politics.
i would have changed ***** to phallus, and claire to petey Petey
Rougie: but that's what I'm doing here
Arnwyn: what letting me adjust myself in your room?..don't you dare quote that on HoP...
SILVER Member
water based
5,125 posts
Location: melbourne, Australia
water based
5,125 posts
Location: melbourne, Australia
Posted:
i *will* vote... but purely because we get fined if we dont... if only all the political propaganda would allow me a correct opinion id be happy..
i *will* vote... but purely because we get fined if we dont... if only all the political propaganda would allow me a correct opinion id be happy..
"you know there are no trophys for doing silly things in real life yeah pete?" said ant "you wont get a 'listened to ride of the valkyries all the way to vietnam' trophy"
*proud owner of the very cute fire_spinning_angel, birgit and neon shaolin*
SILVER Member
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
Posted:
My attitude is why bother. Democracy favours conformists. Anyone who doesn't conform to 'normal' is in a small group with next to no voice politically. You can have 80% of the population in a dozen little groups, and the 20% that act like sheep have all the power.
With the amount of money politicians are payed, you could take 1000 homeless/unemployed, put them through university doing stuff like economics/sociology so they are actually qualified to do the job of politician, and pick the best to act as parliament for a year. It would improve the lives of some of the most disadvantaged people, and having lived at the bottom of society and seeing what life is like at that end, they'd have a better idea what needs doing than the usual 'born with a silver spoon in their mouth' a-holes that get into power through dumping money (tax free no doubt) into campaigning.
From the complete lack of posters in gardens and door to door campaigning, I get the impression everyone round here is completely disillusioned with politics, when everyone in parliament seems to be a lying slimy [censored], who's only in it for the money.
My attitude is why bother. Democracy favours conformists. Anyone who doesn't conform to 'normal' is in a small group with next to no voice politically. You can have 80% of the population in a dozen little groups, and the 20% that act like sheep have all the power.
With the amount of money politicians are payed, you could take 1000 homeless/unemployed, put them through university doing stuff like economics/sociology so they are actually qualified to do the job of politician, and pick the best to act as parliament for a year. It would improve the lives of some of the most disadvantaged people, and having lived at the bottom of society and seeing what life is like at that end, they'd have a better idea what needs doing than the usual 'born with a silver spoon in their mouth' a-holes that get into power through dumping money (tax free no doubt) into campaigning.
From the complete lack of posters in gardens and door to door campaigning, I get the impression everyone round here is completely disillusioned with politics, when everyone in parliament seems to be a lying slimy [censored], who's only in it for the money.
You aren't thinking or really existing unless you're willing to risk even your own sanity in the judgment of your existence.
Green peppers, lime pickle and whole-grain mustard = best sandwich filling.
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
I should learn to stop reading, after having a high on another thread... this just made me sad
It seems to be easier for people to sign online rainforest petitions, or click on hunger websites and argue about environmental hippie flying thrice across the globe in a month (not that you did any of that Aimee) - but when it comes down to cast their vote (for the least of all evils), they refuse...
Is a vote like going to the blood bank and donate?
Valid point! Maybe because it's better than just standing aside and neither give a donation (to the homeless), nor stop those rapists of that mother (earth) yourself... [/sarcasm]
I get the idea of a single vote "doesn't make a change" (neither do online petitions) or "politicians are all the same" (yes, they are all just human) IF you really want to make a change, why not at least take that half hour of your time and that pen to make your "X"??? If you don't join or found a political party yourself...
It just saddens me to see ppl stuck in agony. [sigh]
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1178240829)
Written by: Aimée
So today was the first time I've been old enough to vote.
I didn't.
I should learn to stop reading, after having a high on another thread... this just made me sad
It seems to be easier for people to sign online rainforest petitions, or click on hunger websites and argue about environmental hippie flying thrice across the globe in a month (not that you did any of that Aimee) - but when it comes down to cast their vote (for the least of all evils), they refuse...
Is a vote like going to the blood bank and donate?
Written by: polarity
why bother?
Valid point! Maybe because it's better than just standing aside and neither give a donation (to the homeless), nor stop those rapists of that mother (earth) yourself... [/sarcasm]
I get the idea of a single vote "doesn't make a change" (neither do online petitions) or "politicians are all the same" (yes, they are all just human) IF you really want to make a change, why not at least take that half hour of your time and that pen to make your "X"??? If you don't join or found a political party yourself...
It just saddens me to see ppl stuck in agony.
[sigh]EDITED_BY: FireTom (1178240829)
the best smiles are the ones you lead to
SILVER Member
Are we there yet?
1,897 posts
Location: australia
Are we there yet?
1,897 posts
Location: australia
Posted:
I used to think why bother, I can't change anything...
...but then I realised that if all the people who thought like me actually got off their butts and voted, then we could make a difference...
there's a great saying in australian (maybe in other places too?) politics that says: vote early, vote often
I used to think why bother, I can't change anything...
...but then I realised that if all the people who thought like me actually got off their butts and voted, then we could make a difference...
there's a great saying in australian (maybe in other places too?) politics that says: vote early, vote often
GOLD Member
now available in "advanced"
6,086 posts
Location: Cornwall, United Kingdom
now available in "advanced"
6,086 posts
Location: Cornwall, United Kingdom
Posted:
I always make sure I vote, it gives me the right to complain when the wrong people get re-elected!
I always make sure I vote, it gives me the right to complain when the wrong people get re-elected!
My state of mind is not yours to define!
There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."
SILVER Member
fluffy mess
197 posts
Location: Brighton, United Kingdom
fluffy mess
197 posts
Location: Brighton, United Kingdom
Posted:
I've never had the opportunity. I've been old enough for 6 years, but since then I've been in a foreighn country, my opinion doesn't matter...yet
I've never had the opportunity. I've been old enough for 6 years, but since then I've been in a foreighn country, my opinion doesn't matter...yet
"I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence.." - Oriah Mountain Dreamer
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
lame excuse, Blue - dunno about SA though - but I guess you can still vote in your country if you register as an "alien voter". You will be casting by letter to either the embassy in the UK or the department in your own country...
Your opinion matters as much as anyone else's (to me at least)
lame excuse, Blue
- dunno about SA though - but I guess you can still vote in your country if you register as an "alien voter". You will be casting by letter to either the embassy in the UK or the department in your own country... Your opinion matters as much as anyone else's
(to me at least) the best smiles are the ones you lead to
BRONZE Member
Super Gidg!!!!
8,506 posts
Location: Portland Oregon USA
Super Gidg!!!!
8,506 posts
Location: Portland Oregon USA
Posted:
I totally agree with Bird ... if you don't vote, you can't complain.
I totally agree with Bird ... if you don't vote, you can't complain.
Growing old is mandatory; growing up is NOT.
Proud member of the HoP DPS.
Sanity is a highly overrated state of mind.
I'm normal ... it's everyone else that's crazy.
Gidg
GOLD Member
Pirate Pixie Crew Captain
8,428 posts
Location: Wales
Pirate Pixie Crew Captain
8,428 posts
Location: Wales
Posted:
Well after all the counting and such it looks like little has changed in Wales, but then less than 50% of the voters turned out to mark any boxes
What can you say? Either the majority don't care who's in power over them or they just couldn't work out who to vote for.
I don't think a "None of the above" choice would ultimately result in chaos. I think it might force politicians to think harder about the election promises they make. If they constantly keep making lame promises they do not keep then they will soon learn that we can't be bothered with them. Maybe then more independent candidates would get into power.... who knows. All I know is that all the major parties seem as corrupt as each other to me and it's time for a change in the way we are governed.
Well after all the counting and such it looks like little has changed in Wales, but then less than 50% of the voters turned out to mark any boxes
What can you say? Either the majority don't care who's in power over them or they just couldn't work out who to vote for.
I don't think a "None of the above" choice would ultimately result in chaos. I think it might force politicians to think harder about the election promises they make. If they constantly keep making lame promises they do not keep then they will soon learn that we can't be bothered with them. Maybe then more independent candidates would get into power.... who knows. All I know is that all the major parties seem as corrupt as each other to me and it's time for a change in the way we are governed.
Feed me Chocolate!!! Feed me NOW!
BRONZE Member
HoP mage and keeper of the fireballs
1,965 posts
Location: Palmerston North, New Zealand
HoP mage and keeper of the fireballs
1,965 posts
Location: Palmerston North, New Zealand
Posted:
Over here in NZ they have this stupid MMP system and you get two votes one for your local MP and one for the political party you support.
I vote the lesser of two evils evils for my local electorate and the underdog gets my party vote. This usually turns out Labor (local) and Greens (party) but since Labor seems to be full of F#&K wits and National (Conservative) has now got a new leader they may be worth a vote at the next election
Over here in NZ they have this stupid MMP system and you get two votes one for your local MP and one for the political party you support.
I vote the lesser of two evils evils for my local electorate and the underdog gets my party vote. This usually turns out Labor (local) and Greens (party) but since Labor seems to be full of F#&K wits and National (Conservative) has now got a new leader they may be worth a vote at the next election
May my balls of fire set your balls on fire 
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
Well it seems like there's going to be an interesting constellation in Scotland with the SNP (Scottish National Party) JUST being the strongest party - so small amounts of votes CAN make a difference.
Labour's lost by 1 seat, and the conservatives and liberal democrats are only 1 seat apart from each other, too, with 2 more candidates from the greens and 1 independant one making it in. So the negotiations are going to be interesting, and quite probably lengthy!
I'm glad I voted
However, 1 in 20 votes were invalid because people didn't understand the polling system:
https://thescotsman.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=698352007
Now I'd put a lot of money on the guess that a lot of these people were laughing at the esteemed citizens of Florida back when Bush first won for not being able to vote properly. And now they complain that it was too difficult and misleading. I mean, come on, *I* understood it, 95 % of voters understood it, so even if it was a tad complicated with 2 votes being on one paper, if you don't understand it, go and ASK SOMEONE.
(Shouldn't laugh really, it's a hell of a lot of votes to just be lost. On the other hand, this seems to be a valid method to weed out people who won't understand politics anyway from influencing them)
Well it seems like there's going to be an interesting constellation in Scotland with the SNP (Scottish National Party) JUST being the strongest party - so small amounts of votes CAN make a difference.
Labour's lost by 1 seat, and the conservatives and liberal democrats are only 1 seat apart from each other, too, with 2 more candidates from the greens and 1 independant one making it in. So the negotiations are going to be interesting, and quite probably lengthy!
I'm glad I voted
However, 1 in 20 votes were invalid because people didn't understand the polling system:
https://thescotsman.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=698352007
Now I'd put a lot of money on the guess that a lot of these people were laughing at the esteemed citizens of Florida back when Bush first won for not being able to vote properly. And now they complain that it was too difficult and misleading. I mean, come on, *I* understood it, 95 % of voters understood it, so even if it was a tad complicated with 2 votes being on one paper, if you don't understand it, go and ASK SOMEONE.
(Shouldn't laugh really, it's a hell of a lot of votes to just be lost. On the other hand, this seems to be a valid method to weed out people who won't understand politics anyway from influencing them
) "vices are like genitals - most are ugly to behold, and yet we find that our own are dear to us."
(G.W. Dahlquist)
Owner of Dragosani's left half
Scientist of Fortune
1,189 posts
Location: Edinburgh
1,189 posts
Location: Edinburgh
Posted:
Misunderstandings with new voting systems are quite common, especially if the people taking part are elderly, and used the old system all their lives.
I've heard a number of people realising that they've made a mistake after handing the form in. Apparently putting numbers in the regional vote list is quite common, and certainly understandable for the elderly.
Written by: Birgit
I mean, come on, *I* understood it, 95 % of voters understood it, so even if it was a tad complicated with 2 votes being on one paper, if you don't understand it, go and ASK SOMEONE.
Misunderstandings with new voting systems are quite common, especially if the people taking part are elderly, and used the old system all their lives.
I've heard a number of people realising that they've made a mistake after handing the form in. Apparently putting numbers in the regional vote list is quite common, and certainly understandable for the elderly.
According to Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle of Quantum Dynamics, we may already be making love right now...
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
Some say that too much money gets spent on election rallies and not even a fraction in keeping the promises made.
Ppl not ticking boxes (to me) is equal with: "We're not happy with the choices provided." It should send out a message - unfortunately it gets misunderstood...
That would indicate they KNOW that they don't know... errm...
Some say that too much money gets spent on election rallies and not even a fraction in keeping the promises made.
Ppl not ticking boxes (to me) is equal with: "We're not happy with the choices provided." It should send out a message - unfortunately it gets misunderstood...
Written by: Birgit
if you don't understand it, go and ASK SOMEONE
That would indicate they KNOW that they don't know...
errm... the best smiles are the ones you lead to
BRONZE Member
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
had her carpal tunnel surgery already thanks v much
4,145 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)
Posted:
Well I see that, but my point is that if you don't read the instructions you can't complain that it was complicated. People complain that the papers looked different - indicator that something's changed maybe? Or else, admit you've made a mistake and don't blame it on the system.
The papers I got actually had addresses of who to contact for questions, and I'm sure that people in the office would've known what to do, too.
Well I see that, but my point is that if you don't read the instructions you can't complain that it was complicated. People complain that the papers looked different - indicator that something's changed maybe? Or else, admit you've made a mistake and don't blame it on the system.
The papers I got actually had addresses of who to contact for questions, and I'm sure that people in the office would've known what to do, too.
"vices are like genitals - most are ugly to behold, and yet we find that our own are dear to us."
(G.W. Dahlquist)
Owner of Dragosani's left half
GOLD Member
addict
434 posts
Location: UK
addict
434 posts
Location: UK
Posted:
Happy Birthday Birgit!!
Happy Birthday Birgit!! SILVER Member
fluffy mess
197 posts
Location: Brighton, United Kingdom
fluffy mess
197 posts
Location: Brighton, United Kingdom
Posted:
Thats true, but is it fair to vote for a country I don't live in...or even really go to? I don't think it is. Plus I don't get the full blow of the parties campaignes... wouldn't want to miss out on all that outside influence
Written by: FireTom
lame excuse, Blue
Thats true, but is it fair to vote for a country I don't live in...or even really go to? I don't think it is.
Plus I don't get the full blow of the parties campaignes... wouldn't want to miss out on all that outside influence "I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence.." - Oriah Mountain Dreamer
BRONZE Member
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Posted:
I voted in Australia's most recent referendum when I was 16 (so 2 years under voting age).
My dad handed me the paper and told me to vote because it was more my future than it was his.
I voted in Australia's most recent referendum when I was 16 (so 2 years under voting age).
My dad handed me the paper and told me to vote because it was more my future than it was his.
i would have changed ***** to phallus, and claire to petey Petey
Rougie: but that's what I'm doing here
Arnwyn: what letting me adjust myself in your room?..don't you dare quote that on HoP...
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
*Joins Motley....*
Blu, valid point - but better to have a distant voice than none... huh? Dunno, my electoral habits were easy: 1st vote social and 2nd green - or vice versa. I trust the conservatives as far as I pee: not even halfway spitting...
Makes sense?
Rougie: That was one of THE most mature things a dad can do... IMO
*Joins Motley....*
Blu, valid point - but better to have a distant voice than none... huh? Dunno, my electoral habits were easy: 1st vote social and 2nd green - or vice versa. I trust the conservatives as far as I pee: not even halfway spitting...
Makes sense?
Rougie: That was one of THE most mature things a dad can do... IMO
the best smiles are the ones you lead to
SILVER Member
coming to a country near you
4,696 posts
Location: home of the tiney toothy bear, Australia
coming to a country near you
4,696 posts
Location: home of the tiney toothy bear, Australia
Posted:
thats beautiful
Written by: Rouge Dragon
I voted in Australia's most recent referendum when I was 16 (so 2 years under voting age).
My dad handed me the paper and told me to vote because it was more my future than it was his.
thats beautiful
"but have you considered there is more to life than your eyelids?"
jointly owned by Fire_Spinning_Angel and Blu_Valley
SILVER Member
Geek
1,261 posts
Location: Manchester, UK
Geek
1,261 posts
Location: Manchester, UK
Posted:
I didnt vote this time.
Partly for the reasons that Polarity pointed out (especially the part about democracy favouring sheep) and partly for reasons that I'm a bit too tired to explain fully but, In essence I dont believe that anything major will change regardless of who we elect.
We believe our political system to be the benchmark by which all others should be measured.
In fact, to anyone who looks into it in detail, its an absolute joke.
I didnt vote this time.
Partly for the reasons that Polarity pointed out (especially the part about democracy favouring sheep) and partly for reasons that I'm a bit too tired to explain fully but, In essence I dont believe that anything major will change regardless of who we elect.
We believe our political system to be the benchmark by which all others should be measured.
In fact, to anyone who looks into it in detail, its an absolute joke.
BRONZE Member
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
Posted:
It's an odd thing.
When I was younger I didn't view voting as important as I do now.
My parents were very secretive and did not speak of politics let alone educate me on anything about voting, so it was something of a nerve wracking event. School did no better.
It was the mark of my parents generation, and there is no excuse for the school.
Now, I vote. I take my son to the polls and we discuss it while we are in there, as well as in advance. He flips the switches for me. I do not want him to be as disillusioned with it as I was.
And yet, I got yelled at, literally yelled at, by some
%&$$heads in the voting line for bringing my son in there, discussing it with him and having him with me. The guy who was manning the table rolled his eyes and gave both my son and I the "I voted today" stickers, which Noah always wears proudly on election day.
It's an odd thing.
When I was younger I didn't view voting as important as I do now.
My parents were very secretive and did not speak of politics let alone educate me on anything about voting, so it was something of a nerve wracking event. School did no better.
It was the mark of my parents generation, and there is no excuse for the school.
Now, I vote. I take my son to the polls and we discuss it while we are in there, as well as in advance. He flips the switches for me. I do not want him to be as disillusioned with it as I was.
And yet, I got yelled at, literally yelled at, by some
%&$$heads in the voting line for bringing my son in there, discussing it with him and having him with me. The guy who was manning the table rolled his eyes and gave both my son and I the "I voted today" stickers, which Noah always wears proudly on election day.
Pele
Higher, higher burning fire...making music like a choir
"Oooh look! A pub!" -exclaimed after recovering from a stupid fall
"And for the decadence of art, nothing beats a roaring fire." -TMK
Stargazer
6,650 posts
6,650 posts
Posted:
Pele, would it be possible that the yelling is due to your son getting educated which buttons to push why (as in "preconditioning") rather than letting him making up his own mind... (just the first thought running through my head when reading your story)
To all those who decide NOT to vote: where in the entire process do you get involved in trying to make a difference/ create a change on the (political) environment (apart from social/ political discussions here)...
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1178768584)
Pele, would it be possible that the yelling is due to your son getting educated which buttons to push why (as in "preconditioning") rather than letting him making up his own mind... (just the first thought running through my head when reading your story)
To all those who decide NOT to vote: where in the entire process do you get involved in trying to make a difference/ create a change on the (political) environment (apart from social/ political discussions here)...
EDITED_BY: FireTom (1178768584)
the best smiles are the ones you lead to
SILVER Member
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
veteran
1,228 posts
Location: on the wrong planet, United Kingdom
Posted:
I don't rely on other people to make the world a better place, especially people who aren't much like the majority, and who have a record of doing what they think is right, rather than what the people want them to do.
This year I felt none of the parties had anything to offer. The Lib Dems lost my vote when they kicked Charles Kennedy out for being human (everyone has problems. If a politician is squeaky clean then they're lying about something, and can't be trusted), and replaced him with a very weak leader who seems to have no idea how to present a party in modern politics. Without a strong leader they're just the bunch of fairys you'd expect liberals to be.
I try to improve things myself as far as is possible, just by being generous with what I've got, and helping to inform people. I'll be working at a solar cinema all summer, showing films on political topics, and I've got 20GB of those films shared on a P2P network 24/7.
If I feel a project can make use of my skills, and I agree with the project's goals, then I'll offer my services freely. Otherwise, they can pay someone else to do it, who won't be as dedicated.
I don't rely on other people to make the world a better place, especially people who aren't much like the majority, and who have a record of doing what they think is right, rather than what the people want them to do.
This year I felt none of the parties had anything to offer. The Lib Dems lost my vote when they kicked Charles Kennedy out for being human (everyone has problems. If a politician is squeaky clean then they're lying about something, and can't be trusted), and replaced him with a very weak leader who seems to have no idea how to present a party in modern politics. Without a strong leader they're just the bunch of fairys you'd expect liberals to be.
I try to improve things myself as far as is possible, just by being generous with what I've got, and helping to inform people. I'll be working at a solar cinema all summer, showing films on political topics, and I've got 20GB of those films shared on a P2P network 24/7.
If I feel a project can make use of my skills, and I agree with the project's goals, then I'll offer my services freely. Otherwise, they can pay someone else to do it, who won't be as dedicated.
You aren't thinking or really existing unless you're willing to risk even your own sanity in the judgment of your existence.
Green peppers, lime pickle and whole-grain mustard = best sandwich filling.
BRONZE Member
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
the henna lady
6,193 posts
Location: WNY, USA
Posted:
Nope, cause I tell hime why I like and don't like each one and then instead of saying the name I simply say "flip this one and this one and this one" while pointing so that people still don't know who I am voting for.
Unlike when I was growing up, his school also covered (the basics) of each candidate and then held their own election. I spoke to Noah and some of his friends about why they voted for whom they did...it was a very interesting conversation to be sure (ie: "I voted against Bush because all he cares about is war and not me." Noah's friend). I am glad his school is doing it but I still don't think it's enough, if that makes sense.
Written by: FireTom
Pele, would it be possible that the yelling is due to your son getting educated which buttons to push why (as in "preconditioning") rather than letting him making up his own mind... (just the first thought running through my head when reading your story)
Nope, cause I tell hime why I like and don't like each one and then instead of saying the name I simply say "flip this one and this one and this one" while pointing so that people still don't know who I am voting for.
Unlike when I was growing up, his school also covered (the basics) of each candidate and then held their own election. I spoke to Noah and some of his friends about why they voted for whom they did...it was a very interesting conversation to be sure (ie: "I voted against Bush because all he cares about is war and not me." Noah's friend). I am glad his school is doing it but I still don't think it's enough, if that makes sense.
Pele
Higher, higher burning fire...making music like a choir
"Oooh look! A pub!" -exclaimed after recovering from a stupid fall
"And for the decadence of art, nothing beats a roaring fire." -TMK
BRONZE Member
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Insert Champagne Here
13,215 posts
Location: without class distinction, Australia
Posted:
That sounds like a really good school program
That sounds like a really good school program
i would have changed ***** to phallus, and claire to petey Petey
Rougie: but that's what I'm doing here
Arnwyn: what letting me adjust myself in your room?..don't you dare quote that on HoP...
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