Bob Schuster (editorial page editor of the Tribune) asked that i write a 700 word article that would explain a solution to low voter turn out. But he wanted a peaceful solution :) I just couldn't do it. Every article I wrote wasn't going to get printed. So I sent him this.
Bob,
I haven't forgotten about the opportunity you presented me when you asked that I , "Write a solution to vote fraud and low voter turnout".
When different moods have hit me I have taken a different tact. I've edited down from as many as 1400 words and as many as 5 different attempts that have become very well recieved as e-mails (so they weren't wasted efforts :)
I'm afraid that the only submission I'll be able to send you would be too radical for your newspaper. I'm too close to the process to see anything other than a scam on the people that government and its supporters use as justification for as much theft as possible. This will continue until the people make up their mind that the only option left is to start "turning over the tables".
I see the political process as an excellent soap box to stand on while people are mildly aware that people are making speeches from soap boxes and will catch a 10 sec. bite every now and then. The most I hope to get out of the printed press is an impression that I believe that "Government Bad,... Freedom Good" (and that anything freedom has in common with government is totally by accident).
Sooooo, anything that I would wish printed with my name attached on the subject of voting would have as the main theme, "If voting really made a difference it would be illegal,... but the process is more entertaining and educational than prime time television, if you get involved". If you're willing to print such a perspective (I got the impression that you were looking for an argument to the common knowledge of most Americans that it is a waste of time) then I'll be glad to put my name on an article that is more about truth than propaganda. I have no desire to try and change the minds of 7 out of 10 people able to vote that choose not to beacuse they believe the system is corrupt,... while I know they are more correct than they realize.
Thanks for the chance, But I don't see a solution on the horizon that won't make the 60's look like the 50's in comparison. Hell, the national debates may be begging for a Libertarian to participate so they can get someone to watch them in 2004.
Technology is elevating the individual to power equal that of even the US Government (just ask the "Drudge Report" :) If I have to bet my freedom on a winner, I choose individuals,... watch,... wait.
Ernest Hancock