According to International IDEA, the United States has almost the lowest voter turnout in the world, ranked a measly 140 out of 163. Perhaps Americans are apathetic, or maybe they’re just concerned their vote is meaningless in the face of America's massive political machine. Can my vote really change the course of politics, or am I just a grain of sand on the massive beach of democracy?
 |
Activist/Author/TV Personality
Many people vote simply because they believe it is their civic duty. Voting is not, contrary to what many believe, a Constitutional right. It is a privilege and as such should be treated with great respect. But to vote simply because you feel obligated, regardless of whether you really support the choices makes a sham out of the process. It also does something worse. Whichever candidate you end up voting for, even if it was a halfhearted support you cast that vote, that candidate, if he or she wins, will claim to have your support and will use every vote as proof of a mandate for whatever policies and actions they undertake.
How much more powerful might it be, if voters who were truly fed up with the process and not pleased with the choices simply refused to vote – almost like a protest vote? What would happen if the next president came into office with only 5 or 10% of eligible voters? How much of a mandate could that person claim, and wouldn’t they be forced to compromise more, look for consensus, citizen support for initiatives, and even possibly, wouldn’t alternative candidates be emboldened and possibly even the two major parties humbled to the point where they might let mainstream voters have more power in the process?
Next Argument
2
1
1
1
1
Biweekly updates on new debates and experts
Please check your email to confirm your subscription.
© 2008 Opposing Views, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Opposing Views, Inc. is not responsible for the content posted on this website. Please view full disclaimer under Terms
Expert Verified
