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RE: Smart

Comment comment by LordDilly on 10 January 2008

Some voters indicated the emotional response was a deciding factor for them

Stuff like this makes me worry for the Republic-- if it's not a candidate's stand on issues that sways voters but that they cry when asked a softball question -- I'm starting to agree with this quote from author Dan Simmons:

Twenty-five years from now, every man or woman in America who wishes to vote will be required to read Thucydides on this matter. And others as well. And there are tests. If you don’t know some history, you don’t vote . . . much less run for office. America’s vacation from knowing history ends very soon now . . . for you, I mean. And for those few others left alive in the world who are allowed to vote.

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RE: Smart by Anonymous :: NR0

RoLbErt here.

First, I never thought it was THAT emotional....

Second, it struck me as fake or unconvincing or both.

Third, with all due respect to believers in democracy, honest, intelligent discourse died a long time ago. Just around the time when people stopped being interested in 4-hour-long town-hall-style debates. So yes, all candidates do it because this is what it takes to run for president. Some people are better than others at pulling off public performances (it certainly helps if you are an actor or just incredibly good at public speaking).

On this third note, all candidates are scripted and it's all about image anyway... (I still can't believe the current President got elected given how poorly he speaks without a script - so there you have the power of scripting in current politics)

It's NOT the end of the world, that's for sure. It's just a game (despite what Hillary says) and they all know it. I am a true believer in the self-adjusting power of American democracy... plus there are plenty of checks and balances in this Republic to allow for the occasional [insert negative epithet of your liking here] President.

Posted 10 January 2008, Hide, Parent, Reply