Vote now! That is what I hear on the TV every time I hear a pundit for Obama speak. Why? Because they know that a large number of the people they have registered to vote for them will not show up on election day. So they hope that by urging people to vote now they will turn more of these people from registered voters, which ultimately mean little, into real voters, which means everything.
And why would I not think this is a good idea? Am I a Racist who knows that many of these people are minorities? Am I an ageist who knows that many are college students who are as likely to go have coffee with a cute girl or guy on November fourth as they are to vote? Am I just out of touch with those who work so much that voting on that day that I wrongly assume that those that want to vote that day can?
No, I think early voting is a bad idea because it involves all sorts of people who choose not to make voting a priority. It allows for those stirred by a single speech to cast their vote quickly without any thought. I think their is wisdom in having a particular date on which to vote. Then our country is steered only by citizens who decided responsible citizenship is a priority for them. Some might argue that this is not true democracy and that all regardless of their commitment should be able to vote. But I think it is better for country when only those who think about the issues and study the candidates vote. If you are not sure what the issues are or what the candidates say about them, do the right thing and stay home. Let those who have thought about it decided our fate.
It you are going to be gone that day or live abroad, go ahead and vote absentee, but if you can come November Fourth, please, DO NOT VOTE NOW!
