Reply #31: An undecided voter told me this today, in detail:

[DesEtoiles]

Asked my undecided-voter secretary about the election. Tried not to lead her, but did press her a little here and there. This is what she told me.

Her demographics: Woman. Early 50's. Secretary at law firm. Divorced. One daughter, early 20's, who had a baby when she was 18 and unmarried. The three of them live together and she is taking an active role in raising her grandson. Chronic health problems with her grandson.

Not decided - probably will not decide till very last minute but WILL vote for someone. Described that her final decision will be sort of a gut decision. Couldn't really elaborate. Something like, at the heart of it, who will be best for America. But unclear what her criteria is (even to her). I think a large part of it is values.

Would have a much easier time deciding if Edwards was at top of ticket. Likes that Edwards is a self-made man from humble beginnings. Respects that. Doesn't know much about Kerry. May do some research on him.

Completely discounts what candidates say - it is all rhetoric to get votes. Doesn't expect any of them to follow-through. Don't think debates will have much of an effect on her, but acknowledges that "something big" will happen before election that will tip her vote. Appears to be waiting for the undetermined "something big" that will help her make her decision.

Patriot Act -does not know much about it. More concerned about taking God out of pledge or prayers out of football games. Govt does not have a right to say that you can't pray. But agrees govt also does not have a right to interfere with women's reproductive rights.

Believes Kerry made Vietnam the center of his campaign and then had to backtrack when he was criticized. Has a real problem with what Kerry said when he came back from the war. Not very concerned about Bush's lack of service - more concerned about what the president will do in the next 4 years. Overall does not think military service should be an issue.

How will Kerry get any initiatives through a Republican Congress, she wonders.

All sides are controlled by special interests, etc.

Has a real problem with some things Bush has done. Thinks he is arrogant and not humble. Used the word "aggressive" as a negative against him.

Draft? Seemed not to have considered the possibility. Then responded that older people would like a draft. I asked, you mean they would send their children and grandchildren to Iran? North Korea? Gave her a couple reasons why there could be a draft (back door draft now, troops over extended, mandate to continue neocon agenda). Didn't seem to faze her too much. She said, do you think that there wouldn't be enough volunteers?