It's weird not having a dog in this hunt, and yet being politically aware this time around

[LittleClarkie]

I was a sheeple still in 2003.

I was sort of hoping I'd know who I was voting for by now this time around, and that it would be based on substance instead of just hearing a phrase I liked come out of someone's mouth and basing my vote on that.

Oh, I suppose I really do know who I'd vote for. But they're not running, damn it. Such is life.

So here I sit, observing the mayhem. I suppose that saves me the stress in a way, as it looks ugly at times out there.

And yet I wish I knew who the fuck I was voting for.

Can anyone relate?

[TomInTib]

1. So there's two of us, eh?

This is the first time in memory that I don't have a clear preference.

I may write in Pat Paulsen.

Tom

[TwilightZone]

2. I've been a political junkie for 30 years. This is the first time I can remember not having...

a candidate by now.

Actually, it's been kind of interesting. If nothing else, being on the outside has made me realize how ridiculous some of the assertions thrown around can be. There has been some truly silly stuff going around, perpetuated by supporters of nearly all of the candidates.

Primary season also seems a lot less (personally) stressful than usual. :)

[tridim]

3. Been voting since 92 and this is my first 'undecided' primary season.

It is unnerving and odd, but I'm sure I'll decide within the next few weeks.

[mcscajun]

4. I sure can. I was all fired up for Clark last time 'round.

I'm paying attention, certainly, but not fired up at all over any candidate.

I'll vote for whoever gets the nom, but that's about all. As to the primary, I intend to vote Kucinich, but I can't say I'm excited about that, either.

[LittleClarkie]

5. I'm leaning toward Edwards, sorta. But not fired up either

Just gave money to the Kerry for Senate campaign though. And I'm not even in Massachusetts.

[Raine]

6. Same here

I'll probably vote for Edwards, I like Dodd better but doubt he has a chance. I'm not hot for any of them though. :shrug: I can take any of them or leave em except for Hillary...I can't get behind her...no way. x(

[Romulox]

7. I don't understand all the drama over supporting this or that candidate.

By the time the vast majority get to cast a meaningful vote in the matter, most of the candidates will have left the race. Some select few of us in Michigan and Florida will have the candidate handed to us on a take it or leave it basis. So why get too excited over who the candidate will be? Basically if you don't live in Ia or NH, nobody really cares who you support. :shrug:

[KharmaTrain]

8. I've Been Blissfully Non-Committed

My state's presidential primary has been late and a joke for years...thus I never really got wrapped up in the primaries. I think the last candidate I really supported was George McGovern (yep, that long ago) and have been an observer of the process and the people ever since.

I lived in Iowa in 1988 and had the chance to see the caucus system and the people close up. I've also been involved online and message boards for too many years now, so I find it interesting to sit back and observe as the "silly season" develops. The primary system is like watching a reality TV show as its mostly substance and how can a candidate address now issues today for what will be in two years? This is more game...and every silly season has its darlings and goats, its flame wars and politicking. I just sit back and watch the show.

Instead of playing this game, I have always focused on the local politics and races...the places where I can have make a contribution and see the effects. The local primary is February 5th...and in a couple weeks, I'll look at where the presidential field has gone and then start taking one final look.

In the end, I will vote for and support the Democratic candidate...the one the rank and file of the party have decided is their choice. I've long given up riding the emotional roller coaster of the silly season.

Cheers...