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A Popularity Contest
"I think America has a history of treating elections much like a high school popularity contest. Why else is the Terminator our governor?"
By Jennifer Marshall, 19
August 26, 2007
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With the 2008 Elections taking place right around the corner, Youth Radio's Jennifer Marshall finds no reason in participating in the decision making process. She feels next years cannidates will win due to their popularity rather than their concern with social and enviornmental issues.
With the primary elections fast approaching, candidates and voters alike are preparing to make that all important decision at the voting booth.
Whenever the topic of voting pops up, I try to sneak out of the room before I have to tell anyone I’ve decided not to vote in next year’s presidential election.
I think America has a history of treating elections much like a high school popularity contest. Why else is the Terminator our governor?
The idea of our first black or woman president is exciting. That’s why I won’t be surprised if people focus more on having a “first” in the white house rather than the viewpoints or positions the candidates uphold.
Believe me, I do want the sex and racial divide to be broken – but I also want the best person to win the election. If someone really proves they’re family-oriented, supportive of diversity, and helpful in the community instead of just posing for meaningless photo ops, I will regain my interest in politics.
But until then I’ll keep watching America’s popularity contest from the sidelines.
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