As 2024 approaches, I decided I’m not voting for anyone who does not support a ceasefire and end of military aid to Israel. I’d rather abstain than vote for someone who is supporting #genocide. I don’t think the democratic party realizes the degree to which chronically disaffected (largely youth voters) feel similarly. #uspol #Palestine #gaza
The obvious and played out rebuttal to this is the lesser of two evils argument. I refuse to participate in a system where the lesser of two evils is voting for any politician actively participating in genocide.
@Hunter problem is, you live in such a system. It’s a cliche but nonetheless true that "refusing to participate" is equivalent to voting for already-established power.
I feel the pain! I'm not yet a Dutch citizen and so cannot vote in national elections. But for local ones, I enjoy the freedom to vote for minor parties that best express my ideals, without fear of throwing away my vote.
But, remaining a US voter, I still have to choose between far less desirable candidates or simply throw away my vote to "make a point" that will be heard by no one. :-(
@hans That is a fair point - but I’d argue that “participating” isn’t as simple as as voting vs not voting. For many causes over the years I’ve marched, called/written my representatives, penned op-eds, been interviewed in media. I’d argue this is more impactful and participatory than voting for POTUS in a solidly blue state given the electoral college. The myopic view that one either votes for ___ or they support fascism is deeply unimaginative. Civic participation is multifaceted.
@Hunter true enough! I certainly feel like voting progressive in Seattle is not very participatory. I probably exert greater influence picking fights online 😆
Given your position in a blue state, it probably matters little if you don't vote for Biden. What worries me is that chance, however small, that broadcasting a cynical "I can't vote for him because [key issue]” take online might contribute to low-turnout vibes in swing states.
@hans I worry that is increasingly the reality esp among Arab Americans in swing states like Michigan mentioned in this Politico piece (which is what prompted my initial post). Absent a shift in policy I’m earnestly worried about Biden/Dem prospects. The bit in the photo captures the sentiment. It begins“We are not going to vote for these people, we’re going to show them that our vote has value.” https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/11/biden-israel-michigan-support-00125320
@Hunter yeah, I share both your worry about the Michigan electorate and your disappointment in the administration's blindness to Israel's moral failings.
(And not just in the US https://www.dw.com/en/israel-hamas-and-the-weakness-of-the-west/a-67051502 )