Apathy for politics is pervasive. This is understandable. Many people are justifiably discouraged by a political system full of politicians that either overtly lie or turn real issues and questions into evasions and half-truths, which is also lying. And the few worthy candidates have been so marginalized they have no chance of winning. Sadly, too many people eligible to vote can’t bring themselves to vote because they believe that voting is an endorsement of the current political system. In fact, “not� voting is an endorsement of the current political system. Not voting is a vote for more of the same. Even voting for one candidate as a way of preventing another from election or re-election makes a statement. And the way to look at such a vote in the “real� world is that voting against a candidate “is� voting for something. You are voting to protect a position of power from that which you do not approve. And even if you feel that there is absolutely no difference between candidates, then by all means register to vote. Your registration is perhaps the strongest message you can send to politicians. Registering is a way of expressing dissent or a way of supporting a fledgling party. Register nonpartisan or register with a third party. Then in general elections you can still vote for any candidate. There is no need to make it complicated. Go so far as to read “all� parties’ values statements. Then choose one aligned with your values. This process may be an eye-opener, including for those registered with the two major parties.
The foreseeable future of American politics looks bleak. At best, we alternate between the twin disasters of blind Republican and lame Democratic leadership, both increasingly dangerous to world peace and well-being. But an ongoing slide into the night of neo-conservatism is unspeakable and unthinkable. I, as a safe state resident, have adopted the strategy of voting for Green Party candidate David Cobb as a way of supporting the continued growth of a third party, while traveling to Portland and Reno to help John Kerry secure votes as a way of ousting the Bush administration.
The last day to register in California is October 18th.

Fred Pohlmann
Boulder Creek, California