Posted by
Andrews on Sunday, March 16, 2008 12:02:41 PM
I am tired of hearing how people don't vote on issues. Again and again I have heard various pundits, as well as people I know, say that "people don't vote on issues".
I just don't buy it. If people don't care about issues, why do debates so strongly change the direction of elections? Why did Mondale lose based on his promise to raise taxes? How did Perot and Nader manage to run their campaigns, as it certainly wasn't on looks or charisma? Why are so many conservatives threatening to sit out the election because McCain is the nominee?
Yes, other factors can play into it, but it seems to me that positions are a huge part of any election. Everyone I ask about elections says that they are voting based on the candidates' positions. So, either I hang out with an unusually erudite crowd, or the assumption made by many that issues don't matter is wrong.
As I know the shortcomings of many of my associates, I am betting that it is the pundits underestimating the voters.