04 October 2006

On Voting and Candidacies

07 November of this year will involve every American citizen's second-most-important duty: Voting.1 Those who have the right to vote and choose not to do so undermine the very concept of democracy; one can hardly complain that one's views aren't represented in the government if one doesn't participate in the selection process! Low voter turnout also results in improper claims of a "mandate" and the rush toward the center.

If you cannot find an acceptable candidate in a given race—or even every race—just write in a more-acceptable candidate. Including yourself, if necessary; or, if you're near or in Chicago, the Hon. Richard J. Daley. But no matter who you vote for, vote.


  1. The most important duty is jury service; only after voting do we get to anything else.