Think [the box] ing discussion

I don't believe the time of year is the issue.
People simply don't see the importance of their "one" vote. After years of feeling the importance of voting, I have started to question what weight my one vote has. If we created a national holiday, it would only make things worse. Look at Memorial Day! What percentage use the day for its purpose?

First off, I am always somewhat bothered by this assumption that crops up everywhere on the net, that everyone on the net is American. Mostly I find it alienating, and rude, in a non-personal way (I mean, I'm not having a dig at anyone). I just wanted to say that, because I for one would appreciate some acknowledgement that there are other countries in the world, and other people on Goodreads! So sorry if my tone is a bit prickly.

I'm not hugely familiar with the voting laws in your country, but did you know that in my country voting is compulsory? I like this, and I've never heard anyone complain. When you have a comparatively small population, it's good to know that everyone has had their say. Anyway, our governmental structure etc. is different.

I know some people find this offensive. Seriously, I don't know why. It works for us *shrug*

What happens to folks who don't vote?

They get fined. It's not much, about $50 I think? Unless you're overseas or there's some special consideration, then you don't have to (or you can do a postal vote). It hardly matters - people may not be more politically astute than anywhere else (they're not), but people do actually care enough to think about it and vote. There are some people who don't give a shit and do donkey votes in protest (not of having to vote, but of the choices available and their shitty policies), but voting doesn't need to be compulsory for that to happen. What I mean is, I've never heard people complain about having to vote, but about the parties being all awful and so on. Having to vote generally makes people take more of an interest.

The Canadian federal election was held yesterday. Only 56% of the population voted - their lowest to date. Hardly a representational vote.

I think US participation would be higher if we had a proportional representation system instead of 2 party rule; as it is, I really have no voice for my opinions in politics because neither side comes close to what I believe. It gets to be discouraging when you only vote against (lessor of two evils) something ...

Oh Charly, I didn't for a moment think that! I just see it all the time especially on Goodreads and I guess because I'm comfortable here I decided to air my angst, but it wasn't fair to you.

I find the two-party system a bit scary. You're either a Republican or a Democrat. But what if you're neither? Is there any room for a new party to be born? If there are minor parties, we never hear about them! It does seem strange that you vote for an actual person (to be president), not a party whose leader will become president. Well I guess that's the difference between voting for a president vs. a prime minister! (wake up Shannon!)

Unfortunately no ... and to make matters worse, even IF you managed to get somebody with your views elected within one of the two major parties, if they don't toe the party line once they take office they are effectively puinished for stepping out of line by the leadership. That is just how power works :(

Shannon, I am really curious as to what country you are from. I may immigrate. I don't vote here. Forcing me to may be the only way.

I'm from Australia, Carlie. At the moment I live in Toronto but in a few years I'm moving back. I miss it.

Yes, Republican or Democrat gets old after a while. I don't know if there has ever been a president elected from independent, etc. They never even get close. And why is that? The media. It broadcasts only the republican and democrat parties, like the other ones don't matter.