Screwed if you do...
I had a conversation with a friend the other day... it went something like this:
Friend: "You know, we're going to fuck up '08"
Me: "How so?"
Friend: "Well, we have the damn White House handed to us but noooo, we're not happy with that. We're gonna try to push through something new, like get a woman or a black man in the office."
At first, I was uncomfortable with the blatant misogyny and racism. Then I started thinking...
As much as I'd like to think this country is ready for a female or African-American president, I'm not so sure. I would love to see it happen but my gut tells me that when the citizens of USSR (United States of Stubbornly Red) close their voting booth curtains, all bets are off. Why?
My marketing training tells me that people will go with what they're comfortable with unless given overwhelming evidence otherwise. Comfort usually means recognition and trust. For the same price, would you buy "Fizzers Cola" or Coke? We are victims of branding and are affected by it consciously as well as subconsciously.
Unfortunately, I dare anyone to tell me that the white male leader is not a brand. I'm not saying this is right or wrong but it simply is what it is.
The questions I'm asking myself are: How much of my soul do I lose if I back a "safer" candidate? Contrastly, how much do I lose if I have to live another 4 years of this insanity?
Look, I don't like it but I'm starting to think Edwards' white penis is the way to go.
This blows.
3 comments:
I've had these same thoughts. It would be a shame to lose a very winnable election simply because of skin color or lack of dangly bits. I cling to the ideals that these things shouldn't matter, but when it comes down to it, people are people.
On the other hand, I wonder if this isn't the *exact* right time. In an environment where even traditional Republicans are completely disgusted with the Republicans, it might just give a lot of voters the excuse they need to change their voting habits. Like, "I'd never normally vote for a black man, but I can't stand the thought of 4 more years of this crap."
I don't think you're going to have to worry about losing your soul. The Democratic primary is going to come down to Hillary and Obama. And the presidency is going to come down to a white Republican and either a black man or a white woman. So unless you're voting Republican (in which case I'm not allowed to post on your blog anymore :) ) I think your soul is safe.
In the unlikely situation that you're forced to support either Edwards or Clinton, you're excused for voting for the white guy...
You bring up a good point and have better faith in the populace than I. I sincerely hope the backlash opens some minds. Since every other idea out there is just splintery flotsam, I'll cling to this idea for comfort.
You know, I'm actually glad that those two seem to be the strongest canidates for the Democratic party in 2008...of course, I'm Republican.
Now, mind you, I don't consider myself racist or sexist, but I certainly do not think this country is ready for either a black or female president.
As for voting for something just to spite the the Republicans, as it were, I think you are wrong. The American people have proven time and time again they are stubborn.
But, in case you haven't noticed, even my party is trying to throw this whole thing on Bush's head, seperating themselves from his evil oil-filled agenda...if you at all believe that.
However, when it comes down to it, I don't think the Democratic Party will have a leg to stand on come 08. Each of the prospective canidates seems to have some black mark against them, and I think in the rush to be picked as the canidate, they are going to tear themselves apart.
While I may be wrong, I think it is going to be an interesting run up to the elections. I believe everyone will be watching the Democratic party closely and then, come the big day, still vote Republican. But, I suppose we will just have to wait and see - I'll get back with you next year.
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