Where do you stand on politics?

[The Man of Steel]

I'm a independent (but i'm going for Obama in 08)

[The Man of Steel]

oops, I Didn't mean to post this in this area

[Dangerous]

The discussion of government policy, legislation etc.. for the most part bores me unless it is regarding an issue for which I hold a specific interest.

[Dangerous]

Naughty!

[SuBe]

I actually consider myself a Libertarian, which isn't a choice.

[Immortalfire]

I'm an American.


I'm also moving this.

[Obi-Ron]

Every politician is corrupt, so party lines are really just a smokescreen to baffle voters.

[Handsome Rob]

I'm a conservative--closer to Libertarian than anything else.

So, I didn't vote.

[The Senator]

I am a Democrat.

[TNC9852002]

I'm not even sure..

-TNC

[Malice]

screw parties

[The Chairman]

I sadly cannot vote, but I'm planning to register as a Democrat.

[Malice]

I sadly cannot vote, but I'm planning to register as a Democrat.

Why register as a democrat? Why not register as indepedent and vote your own way...even though that might be democrat

[The Senator]

Yeah, stick it to the man! Screw our two party state!

[hippie_hunter]

I'm a registered Republican but I vote independent.

[The Senator]

Why register as a democrat? Why not register as indepedent and vote your own way...even though that might be democrat

If a party fits someone's ideology, why shouldn't they register with it?

[The Chairman]

If a party fits someone's ideology, why shouldn't they register with it?

Which is exactly why I plan to register for it.

[Malice]

The parties right now interfere with others running.
If someone wanted to participate in a debate, they actually now have to ask the democrats and republicans if its ok.

Having a third party get big is simply a threat to them, and I find that unacceptable.

The parties do everything they can do to keep the status quo, no matter what...that is why I ask.

[Spider-Bite]

Why register as a democrat? Why not register as indepedent and vote your own way...even though that might be democrat

I'm not positive but I think that effects how you can vote in the primaries in certain states.

I'm almost positive it's like that in New York.

[Addendum]

I'm just a voter. I didn't register as an independent.

[The Chairman]

I'm not positive but I think that effects how you can vote in the primaries in certain states.

I'm almost positive it's like that in New York.

Where I live.

[hippie_hunter]

I'm not positive but I think that effects how you can vote in the primaries in certain states.

I'm almost positive it's like that in New York.

Yeah, New York is a closed primary.

[hippie_hunter]

I'm just a voter. I didn't register as an independent.

Speaking of registering, I remember when I was doing a voter registration table, the girl right next to me kept on telling people to register Republican. It kinda annoyed the hell out of me.

Did anyone pressure you to sign up for a party?

[Addendum]

Speaking of registering, I remember when I was doing a voter registration table, the girl right next to me kept on telling people to register Republican. It kinda annoyed the hell out of me.

Did anyone pressure you to sign up for a party?

No.

[SuperFerret]

Speaking of registering, I remember when I was doing a voter registration table, the girl right next to me kept on telling people to register Republican. It kinda annoyed the hell out of me.

Did anyone pressure you to sign up for a party?

Questions: How do I go about registering to vote? How does it work? Where do I go? When can I?

[The Senator]

Questions: How do I go about registering to vote? How does it work? Where do I go? When can I?

I registered through the DMV, but you can also go to the county office and request voter registration forms. If you're planning on registering with a certain party, I think they have a link to where you can either register online or request the forms to do so.

[The Senator]

Speaking of registering, I remember when I was doing a voter registration table, the girl right next to me kept on telling people to register Republican. It kinda annoyed the hell out of me.

Did anyone pressure you to sign up for a party?

I don't think they're permitted to do that, especially if they're working at a non-party-affiliated voter registration table...

[Handsome Rob]

I don't think they're permitted to do that, especially if they're working at a non-party-affiliated voter registration table...

I wouldn't think they'd be able to do that, either. I find that rather irritating. :cmad:

[MaskedManJRK]

I sadly cannot vote, but I'm planning to register as a Democrat.

Why can't you vote? :huh:

Questions: How do I go about registering to vote? How does it work? Where do I go? When can I?

With me I just signed a form when I was at the DMV and I got my card in the mail a few weeks later. It might be different with your state though, so you should probably ask there.

EDIT: Oh, and I'm Libertarian.

[hippie_hunter]

I don't think they're permitted to do that, especially if they're working at a non-party-affiliated voter registration table...

Since we were a non-affiliated group we shouldn't have. I had to keep on interupting if they wanted to register Democrat or if they weren't sure about a particular party just simply don't affiliate. I had to keep saying be what they wanted to be :csad:

The funny thing is that out of the 15 people registered 1 registered Democrat and the rest were non affiliated. I call that a success on my part :o

[Addendum]

I might vote this election or not. Last year, my wallet was stolen and the only thing in it I haven't replaced was my voter card.

[Arkady Rossovich]

If i was to apply myself to American standards,i would be a best Democrat fit.

[Handsome Rob]

I might vote this election or not. Last year, my wallet was stolen and the only thing in it I haven't replaced was my voter card.

You need to. Remember, a non-vote is a vote for the other party. :csad:

[SuperFerret]

You need to. Remember, a non-vote is a vote for the other party. :csad:

:whatever:

[Handsome Rob]

:whatever:

Just trying to encourage voter participation, slick--if in a slightly cheesy way.:o

[SuperFerret]

Just trying to encourage voter participation, slick--if in a slightly cheesy way.:o

This country doesn't need voter participation, we need intelligent voter participation, even if that means standing up and saying "Screw this, if these are my options I won't vote."

Voter turn-out is already at a low level (I've seen various sources mention it at around 50-60%) maybe if more people stand up and say something about the crappy quality of people running for office then something will change.

[The Senator]

This country doesn't need voter participation, we need intelligent voter participation, even if that means standing up and saying "Screw this, if these are my options I won't vote."

Voter turn-out is already at a low level (I've seen various sources mention it at around 50-60%) maybe if more people stand up and say something about the crappy quality of people running for office then something will change.

Or maybe voter turnout is at a low level because people simply don't care.

Heck, half the population doesn't read the newspaper or watch the evening news. Should we expect them to vote? Do we even want them to vote?

[SuperFerret]

Or maybe voter turnout is at a low level because people simply don't care.

Heck, half the population doesn't read the newspaper or watch the evening news. Should we expect them to vote? Do we even want them to vote?

True, but maybe those people don't care because each politician seems to be the same.

[Addendum]

You need to. Remember, a non-vote is a vote for the other party. :csad:

It's still a maybe. I go into work at 3:30 in the pm, and get off work at midnight. So it's not like I'll have the time available to wait

[The Senator]

True, but maybe those people don't care because each politician seems to be the same.

I think a good chunk of Americans don't give a damn who becomes President. They really don't, regardless of party affiliation or lack of revolutionary ideas. Some people would rather sit around all day, surfing Facebook or watching porn, than look up a candidate and decide whether or not they want to vote for him/ her. Some would rather get drunk or stoned than cast a ballot. Christ, thirty percent of Americans couldn't name the current Vice President. There is a sizeable portion of the American population which will remain ignorant no matter what, destined to remain apathetic about politics.

Even if the most inspiring third-party candidate (or even if (s)he was from one of the two parties) ran for President, this same demographic would still keep out of politics. Some people are lazy and don't care, and I think that counts for most of those who refuse to vote.

[Handsome Rob]

I think a good chunk of Americans don't give a damn who becomes President. They really don't, regardless of party affiliation or lack of revolutionary ideas. Some people would rather sit around all day, surfing Facebook or watching porn, than look up a candidate and decide whether or not they want to vote for him/ her. Some would rather get drunk or stoned than cast a ballot. Christ, thirty percent of Americans couldn't name the current Vice President. There is a sizeable portion of the American population which will remain ignorant no matter what, destined to remain apathetic about politics.

Even if the most inspiring third-party candidate (or even if (s)he was from one of the two parties) ran for President, this same demographic would still keep out of politics. Some people are lazy and don't care, and I think that counts for most of those who refuse to vote.


Actually (and this is a perfect response in a thread about politics), you're both right. Barack Obama is the closest to "inspiring" of a candidate that we have, but I'd never vote for him because he's a liberal. I'm definitely not enthusiastic about any of the Republicans running (well, I was before Fred Thompson's "run" became a "slow ambling") And, the average American does not seem to be either politically astute or desirous of being involved in the process.

I still say "vote," but I'm going to have to give it to the Ferret that we're all better off if you actually know who you are voting for and why.

[Watson]

Er, stupid Canadian question. From what I'm understanding, when Americans register to vote, at that time they register as a democrat, republican, or independent? Is this required? Or optional? I only ask out of curiosity :)

[hippie_hunter]

Er, stupid Canadian question. From what I'm understanding, when Americans register to vote, at that time they register as a democrat, republican, or independent? Is this required? Or optional? I only ask out of curiosity :)

It's optional. Though not registering in a party kinda makes you a de facto independent.

[Watson]

Ah ok, thanks. I guess it is this system that enables people to vote in the primaries? Since it would make sense that you would have to be a member of that party to vote for it's leader...or I'm confused again haha.

[cookiva]

Yup. Its the reason why Im a registered democrat, but consider myself an independent. I dont want to be conformed into one party, when there are dozens to choose from.

[Superman]

Democrat

[kronos251]

I'm an American first. :)


Although a lot of people sounded off they're Democrat, and a few Republican, we all know that we belong to America, and not just a political party.

To answer the main question, I'm a Republican, but voting otherwise is not necessarily unfamiliar territory. As long as there is no emotional bias, yet having sincere moral convictions and good, balanced judgment, someone with extensive experience on sound socio-economic and foreign policies is worthy of casting a vote.

One thing I'm sure I will never vote for, is someone who is too long-winded, rambles on and on on something you hear every election time.

[Sun_Down]

I'm a registered Dem for caucus purposes, but I feel no real allegience to the party. I consider myself a left-leaning moderate. I believe both parties have good ideas, but as of late, the GOP seems to be turning away from the aspects I agree with (like, oh I dunno, limited government!), so I'm more inclined to vote Democrat.

[Manic]

I'm an independent voter. I'm liberal, but I have quite a few conservative opinions. I also don't base my state proposition votes off of who supports them. My family is full of Democrats, so I tend not to tell them how I vote for stuff.

[Lobo]

I'm a registered independent

[The Senator]

edit: second post is better

[The Senator]

I'm an American first. :)


Although a lot of people sounded off they're Democrat, and a few Republican, we all know that we belong to America, and not just a political party.

To answer the main question, I'm a Republican, but voting otherwise is not necessarily unfamiliar territory. As long as there is no emotional bias, yet having sincere moral convictions and good, balanced judgment, someone with extensive experience on sound socio-economic and foreign policies is worthy of casting a vote.

One thing I'm sure I will never vote for, is someone who is too long-winded, rambles on and on on something you hear every election time.

I've actually made a vow to never vote for a Republican in a statewide or national election.

That doesn't mean I'll always vote for a Democrat, though. For example, in 2006, our state comptroller in New York stole taxpayer's money to pay a chauffer to transport his ailing wife to and from her doctors' appointments. And while I understood why he did it, I knew it was wrong, and decided not to vote for him... so I voted for the libertarian candidate instead.

Locally, I've voted to re-elect my state senator, who is a Republican. Same for my county's DA.

But statewide or nationally... forget it. The party is so against my ideological standpoint that I'd be doing a great dishonor to myself and everything I stand for.

[kronos251]

I've actually made a vow to never vote for a Republican in a statewide or national election.

That doesn't mean I'll always vote for a Democrat, though. For example, in 2006, our state comptroller in New York stole taxpayer's money to pay a chauffer to transport his ailing wife to and from her doctors' appointments. And while I understood why he did it, I knew it was wrong, and decided not to vote for him... so I voted for the libertarian candidate instead.

Locally, I've voted to re-elect my state senator, who is a Republican. Same for my county's DA.

But statewide or nationally... forget it. The party is so against my ideological standpoint that I'd be doing a great dishonor to myself and everything I stand for.

Jman,

I've read some of your posts in some threads and I'm gonna say now I'm not gonna argue with you on anything. Other people already done that anyway :) And most of the time, you and the person you're with came out all pissed off and stuff, hehe. Its quite interesting and amusing now that I look back, but I guess we're all very passionate in our convictions, especially when some beliefs are truly personal and even worth dying for.

I do understand what that state comptroller did and quite agree with him and you at the same. He could've been in very difficult circumstances where he had to do what he had to do - and its for his wife who's dying. Though I wouldn't base my voting on the fact that he used taxpayer's money for that, I would base it on the results - if ever he delivered any - during his term.

I also agree with you that I don't always vote for the same party of course. If for some reason FDR came back from the dead, I'd vote for him. I admire his socio-economic reforms, and his war policy is more cohesive and very well implemented on the ground. But that was a different time, a different country altogether. Fast forward to the present, if Bill Richardson hadn't dropped off from the race, and I was a Democrat, I'd vote for him. I'm quite the voter that does want some experience behind the candidate so that the slogans you see him and/or his supporters chant everyday would actually make some sense. And if the candidate doesn't have much experience on a particular area, I'd like to hear who he want to hire as his political advisers, economic/business consultants, etc. The country is very much like a company wherein the CEO must oversee every detail from the bottom up, and is humble enough to go through the logistics.

Ideologically speaking, I'll say we're too different and we'll end up arguing and arguing over something both of us will never compromise... and that's the terrible truth.

[The Senator]

Jman,

I've read some of your posts in some threads and I'm gonna say now I'm not gonna argue with you on anything. Other people already done that anyway :) And most of the time, you and the person you're with came out all pissed off and stuff, hehe. Its quite interesting and amusing now that I look back, but I guess we're all very passionate in our convictions, especially when some beliefs are truly personal and even worth dying for.

I do understand what that state comptroller did and quite agree with him and you at the same. He could've been in very difficult circumstances where he had to do what he had to do - and its for his wife who's dying. Though I wouldn't base my voting on the fact that he used taxpayer's money for that, I would base it on the results - if ever he delivered any - during his term.

I also agree with you that I don't always vote for the same party of course. If for some reason FDR came back from the dead, I'd vote for him. I admire his socio-economic reforms, and his war policy is more cohesive and very well implemented on the ground. But that was a different time, a different country altogether. Fast forward to the present, if Bill Richardson hadn't dropped off from the race, and I was a Democrat, I'd vote for him. I'm quite the voter that does want some experience behind the candidate so that the slogans you see him and/or his supporters chant everyday would actually make some sense. And if the candidate doesn't have much experience on a particular area, I'd like to hear who he want to hire as his political advisers, economic/business consultants, etc. The country is very much like a company wherein the CEO must oversee every detail from the bottom up, and is humble enough to go through the logistics.

Ideologically speaking, I'll say we're too different and we'll end up arguing and arguing over something both of us will never compromise... and that's the terrible truth.

Um... the problem is, I don't like any of Republican governors, representatives, senators, or cabinet members (that's roughly 550 Republicans to choose from), so the chances that I'll even find a Republican I like in a national election are slim to none.

[LuiECuomo]

I've actually made a vow to never vote for a Republican in a statewide or national election.

That doesn't mean I'll always vote for a Democrat, though. For example, in 2006, our state comptroller in New York stole taxpayer's money to pay a chauffer to transport his ailing wife to and from her doctors' appointments. And while I understood why he did it, I knew it was wrong, and decided not to vote for him... so I voted for the libertarian candidate instead.

Locally, I've voted to re-elect my state senator, who is a Republican. Same for my county's DA.

But statewide or nationally... forget it. The party is so against my ideological standpoint that I'd be doing a great dishonor to myself and everything I stand for.

It's a good thing to stand firm in your beliefs. I'm the exact same way; just reverse Democrat with Republican.

[kronos251]

Um... the problem is, I don't like any of Republican governors, representatives, senators, or cabinet members (that's roughly 550 Republicans to choose from), so the chances that I'll even find a Republican I like in a national election are slim to none.

Yes, your stance against the Republicans is very clear. I may disagree with it as much as you disagree with my own stance, however I respect that, as all should respect all opinions and allegiances, so long as they reflect the sound and honorable Truth, as do all noble Truths are worth their individual price.

As I said earlier, I refuse to judge a candidate be it on a Democratic, Republican, or Indepedent ticket. Results on what he has done and/or ideas regarding political reforms, economic management stratagem and implementation, and perhaps some infrastructure/establishment overhauls and/or improvements are what truly matters the most, otherwise I have only - and only - myself to blame and be responsible for (re)electing a hypocrite, with little or no humility or sincerity which he owes to the voting public.

[StorminNorman]

I personally label myself a Realistic-Libertarian-Republican.

For example - I believe very strongly in a Libertarian system, but I am not going throw my vote away for a Libertarian candidate. I want to see the GOP move in that direction though - were its roots are.

[Addendum]

http://faroutshirts.com/images/cthulhu4Prez-preview-5.png

[rdh007]

OMG, teh Cloverfeldz!!1!

[MessiahDecoy123]

If you believe in smaller government you're basically handing over our society to big business. You're not a libertarian, you are a tool for fascists.

If you're a fiscal libertarian you have to choose a master regardless. A democratic government or an unregulated oligarchy.

[Handsome Rob]

If you believe in smaller government you're basically handing over our society to big business. You're not a libertarian, you are a tool for fascists.

One could say the same about those swept up in ideas of an overarching, cradle-to-the-grave government. After all, are you going to dare bite the hand if its the main source of your food . . . and health care . . . and shelter . . . and protection . . . and even income?

[Argyle of Sock]

I took the political compass test a month or so ago and this is where I fell:

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff123/kmatson942/politicalcompass11Dec07.png?t=1201340497

Dang... I forgot how far left I am. I do have some conservative tendencies as well. Really.

[Handsome Rob]

I took the political compass test a month or so ago and this is where I fell:

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff123/kmatson942/politicalcompass11Dec07.png?t=1201340497

Dang... I forgot how far left I am. I do have some conservative tendencies as well. Really.

Where'd you take that test? I have a feeling I'd end up in the same level you did . . . only I'd probably be two spaces from the right end. :woot:

[SuBe]

Where'd you take that test? I have a feeling I'd end up in the same level you did . . . only I'd probably be two spaces from the right end. :woot:
http://www.theadvocates.org/quiz.html
It's a similar test.

[MessiahDecoy123]

One could say the same about those swept up in ideas of an overarching, cradle-to-the-grave government. After all, are you going to dare bite the hand if its the main source of your food . . . and health care . . . and shelter . . . and protection . . . and even income?
There's nothing wrong with universal healthcare up to the age of 17. Gauranteed but basic food rations for anyone who needs it. Very basic but efficient housing for the working poor.

If someone wants to live off the land or in a wooden cabin they can without government intervention. If you want luxury and are dissatisfied with the basic needs provided by government you can go out and make a million. But be prepared to be taxed and pay into a system that allows some to have so much more than they'll ever need. It's only fair. You want exclusive wealth and luxury, pay exclusively high taxes.

and "protection"? Are you referring to health inspectors that make sure your food isn't diseased. Firefighters who stop fires from spreading. Or police that get to your home mostly after the fact and are pretty much simply there to protect the haves from the have-nots and enforce an outdated drug war?

[Genesis 1.0]

Republican, I vote based on the appeal of the candidates across the board every year. Whoever matches up the closest to my views gets the nod.

[Manic]

http://www.theadvocates.org/quiz.html
It's a similar test.
Everytime I take these online tests, I get something near the center.

[Chris B]

I consider myself a Democrat simply due to my personal ideology fitting the party.

[Argyle of Sock]

Where'd you take that test? I have a feeling I'd end up in the same level you did . . . only I'd probably be two spaces from the right end. :woot:

http://www.politicalcompass.org/

[The Senator]

For all those independents out there, here's an interesting opinion piece on why an independent President wouldn't be any different from a Democrat or Republican:

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-op-klein27jan27,0,3092855.story

[bullets]

I believe in a dictatorship but only if i am the dictator . I agree with republicans and democrats on different issues . I would say i am a tweener , so it depends on who is running

[Indy]

Democrat


Go Obama!!!!

[rdh007]

http://www.politicalcompass.org/

I was close to Ghandi. What a friggin' hippie.

[The Professor]

More of a moderate, I think both parties have some alright ideas.

[Lobo]

Everytime I take these online tests, I get something near the center.

Likewise

[Loki]

Democrat

[Loki]

Democrat

[SuBe]

I personally label myself a Realistic-Libertarian-Republican.

For example - I believe very strongly in a Libertarian system, but I am not going throw my vote away for a Libertarian candidate. I want to see the GOP move in that direction though - were its roots are.
Agreed.

[The Professor]

as Moderate as they come

[StorminNorman]

as Moderate as they come

When will you Moderate Extremist stop enforcing your way of thinking on us?

[CrypticOne]

I'm a independent (but i'm going for Obama in 08)

I'd consider myself Independent, but I, also, am going for Obama this year.

[kytrigger]

I put down republican, but in all honesty I am more of a "half conservative, half libertarian" kinda guy...

[ScottyBBadd]

screw parties

Hence why I am an Independant, and a Moderate.

[That'ssuper!]

Parties get nothing done, except self-image, making elections a war for narcissim, and throw mud in the middle of it all.

[Han-Solo]

Independent

[Sandman138]

If you believe in smaller government you're basically handing over our society to big business. You're not a libertarian, you are a tool for fascists.

A key tenant of fascism is a belief in the uncompromising authority of the state.

If you're a fiscal libertarian you have to choose a master regardless. A democratic government or an unregulated oligarchy.

Between a monopoly of power and an oligarchy, I'll take the oligarchy. I want neither one and I am not so adamant in my ideology to believe that a libertarian utopia is any less a utopia, but putting your faith in the government only works if the government is in your favor and when you start saying that you know what is best for somebody else you have to admit that the same can be said of you.

[Marx]

Speaking of registering, I remember when I was doing a voter registration table, the girl right next to me kept on telling people to register Republican. It kinda annoyed the hell out of me.

Did anyone pressure you to sign up for a party?

I was also pressured to register as a Republican. I live in a conservative area, so I half expected it. It has pretty much stayed that way too. Everytime that I go to vote, the election workers always assume I want the Republican ballot (despite not being registered as a Republican.) When I tell them that I don't want that ballot they usually scoff or snicker. It's incredibly annoying and really ticks me off, to be honest.

[Tag279]

I'm a moderate democrat.

[rdh007]

I was also pressured to register as a Republican. I live in a conservative area, so I half expected it. It has pretty much stayed that way too. Everytime that I go to vote, the election workers always assume I want the Republican ballot (despite not being registered as a Republican.) When I tell them that I don't want that ballot they usually scoff or snicker. It's incredibly annoying and really ticks me off, to be honest.

They're Ohioans. They're supposed to be incredibly annoying. :confused:
VcoyjO3FeCY

[ScottyBBadd]

For all those independents out there, here's an interesting opinion piece on why an independent President wouldn't be any different from a Democrat or Republican:

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-op-klein27jan27,0,3092855.story

That person would not be a Democrat or a Republican. That is an automatic change.

[Kelly]

http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/5898/pcgraphpngwt0.png (http://imageshack.us)


This is my graph.

[Marx]

They're Ohioans. They're supposed to be incredibly annoying. :confused:
VcoyjO3FeCY

I think you're confusing Ohioans with those incredibly annoying Michiganites! :hehe:

[Addendum]

The correct nomenclature is Michigander

[Marx]

The correct nomenclature is Michigander

That may be true Add, but adding the "ite" on the end furthers the argument that the good people of Michigan are the crazies! :oldrazz: