Reply To: Political Statements
There are a lot of countries that seem to handle elections a whole lot better than the US does,
In 2004, Arizonans passed Proposition 200, which requires voters to show state issued I.D. at the polling place. This, and similar laws passed in other states, were touted as a way to curb “voter fraud,” the Republican buzz words used to make it seem like zillions of undocumented immigrants were trying to get away with voting. Funny thing, though, is that the so-called “rampant” rush to the polls by non-citizens, really never took place. Instead, what we have are a plethora of older folks and low-income citizens who have been left out of the process. Make it difficult and they won’t vote. Hmmmm . . . and just who would this be hurting?
This is what we’ve come to in this country. I am very concerned about this for 2 reasons: In many ways, I believe that there are those who’ve been in power in the U.S. for the past many years (or at least planning for the power grab) who would just love to see an oligarchy. But in order to move forward and make the repairs necessary to start getting the work done our country so desperately needs, we have to come together, even when there are those who want to create divisions through fear.
On a different note, I am exhausted. Our legislative district’s Democratic Party (I’m vice chair) just held a kick-ass fundraiser tonight. Rock the Vote, live band, all local, county, state and federal candidates showed up. We were expecting about 120 people. Well over 150 people came and I spent the entire night running here and there making sure the guests were well taken care of. We made about 4 K tonight to support a new office. It’s been a long day . . .
Here is a plea to all of you: If you care about this election, and you like to laugh at the Daily Show and trash the Bush administration, put your money and time where your mouth is. Volunteer for a couple of hours a week until the election Find a phone bank, make calls, knock on doors, give a few bucks. Your country needs you.
One more thing: I think I converted a new friend to JoCo tonight!