by Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team
Member since:
February 19, 2008

Why Should You Vote? Tell Us to Win a Free Book!

September 26, 2008 11:39 AM EDT (Updated: September 26, 2008 11:42 AM EDT)
views: 441 | rating: 10/10 (38 votes) | comments: 76

In this election year, we hear much about the all-powerful "bases" of each major party. Who are these activists? What drives them? Are they all equally dangerous to our lives, liberties, and pursuits of happiness? In Dumbocracy: Adventures with the Loony Left, the Rabid Right, and Other American Idiots, journalist Marty Beckerman spends four years with foot soldiers of the Left and Right-pro- choice and anti-choice, pro-gay rights and anti-gay rights, pro-war and anti-war - and delivers a searing, hilarious indictment of the True Believer mentality.

Gather is giving away ten copies of "Dumbocracy". For your chance to receive a copy, finish the following sentence in the comment field below:


Get out and vote because…


Answers can be humorous or serious, but must be posted by Sunday, October 5th. Gather will randomly draw ten respondents to receive a copy of "Dumbocracy".

"Dumbocracy" is available September 30th. Want to learn more about it and other similar titles?

Visit
http://www.disinfo.com

 

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Comments: 76

Katie Scarlett (Site Bouncer Wanna Be) O. Sep 26, 2008, 11:46am EDT
I personally don't think it should be called the "right to vote" but the responsibility to vote. Every American should consider it their responsibility to take a hard look at the issues that face the country and give it some real thought and make a choice based on what they feel is the best choice for the country, not just themselves. Too many people can spend hours upon hours each year (if not daily) complaining about what they'd like to see done or changed, but when it comes time to vote, they're too busy or otherwise occupied. I don't just mean a Presidential election, but all the way to your most local officials and even the school boards. If you don't vote, in my opinion, you have nothing to complain about.
Lori F. Sep 26, 2008, 11:52am EDT
We are all lucky to live in a country that allows us the freedom to speak for and more importantly AGAINST the government.

Vote to protect your rights.
Cindy P. Sep 26, 2008, 11:55am EDT
I agree with you Katie. The people that don't get out there and vote are always the first ones to complain.
because it's my right to vote...........

and if you don't ......
please don't whine about the outcomes..................
Cindy P. Sep 26, 2008, 11:58am EDT
Every vote counts!
Linda G. Sep 26, 2008, 12:03pm EDT
Our democracy is fragile and dependent on the voice of the voters, not the media or politicians
Patricia G. Sep 26, 2008, 12:04pm EDT
Sometimes you can measure the value of something by the cost that was paid to obtain it. Our ability to vote is due to millions of people in our country's history dedicating their lives--and sometimes laying down their lives--so that we can have freedom.

Some of these people are famous, and we know their names from childhood. Others we will never know in great detail, but we see the results of their impact. Being informed and taking responsibility when it comes to voting honors their memory and ensures we don't lose what they gained for us.
I vote because they let me do it. I don't feel that my vote counts for much but I'm going to continue to do it anyway. It's a futile gesture but I guess I'm a romantic.
Martha R. Sep 26, 2008, 12:18pm EDT
Why you should vote.... Well hmmm to get the freaking idiots out of Washington that let the economy get in the situation its in..... ( think they should fire all the people on Wall-Street as well). Oh and take all the bonuses from the Ceo of the company's that made us worried about Wall Street..
Amy C. Sep 26, 2008, 12:23pm EDT
I think everyone should vote because we all should be part of the decision making process. We are responsible for our nation. On another note I wish there were other people running for president because neither of these men have made me want to vote for them. I guess most elections are like this. So often the one you would have voted for does not make it!

But yes we should all do our duty and vote for the one we feel would be the best choice for our nation!
kelldogg ! Sep 26, 2008, 12:44pm EDT
i think everyone should vote b/c it is important for everyone to be involved with the important decisions regarding the nation . . . and this is one huge step! it is our civic duty to access the critical issues of the nation and select a leader that will best speak up for us in our best interest. whether our selected candidate is elected or not, it proves that one is proud to be an american and is concerned about the nation's welfare!

some people believe that by not voting, then they will just be omitted from the election process since they might not "like" the candidates or whatever, then they are doing a good thing by not being counted. but everyone is counted. and by not voting you are just hurting the nation. it is important for everyone to make an educated decision on the issues and vote, whether they like it or not! every vote (or non-vote) counts!
kelldogg ! Sep 26, 2008, 12:45pm EDT
you might also find, that those that complain the most about the state of the nation, when you ask them who they voted for . . . they'll say "i didn't".

now who's fault is that i ask?!
Janet "Jax" B. Sep 26, 2008, 12:47pm EDT
Get out and vote, or don't complain. It's your right as a US citizen over 18 to go and make an informed decision as to who should be our next President and congressmen.
j - Frugal Mom - r. Sep 26, 2008, 12:58pm EDT
I agree with every one else. This is the one time that everyone has a chance of making a difference, and if you don't vote, you certainly shouldn't complain.
Mary G. Sep 26, 2008, 1:13pm EDT
I know many people on the board have members that every day put their lives on the line to defend our rights to be free in this country. Its important to vote, so they know people love living in the United States and want to see the best for this country. Women couldn't vote and we had no rights during my grandmothers lifetime and I would never wish to live that way. I truly appreciate being able to chose what I wear and being able to speak about anything that I would like addressed now.
Rose H. Sep 26, 2008, 2:25pm EDT
because - it's time to stand up and be counted, however much of a futile gesture it might be.
because - we still have that privilege.

I'm with Nippy on this one, when the judges gave Bush the election - on that fateful day - I understood, that we - the common people - are no longer part of the club.

I wonder if there will be riots in the streets come Nov 4, 2008.
Bridget ♥ Sep 26, 2008, 2:44pm EDT
Get out there and vote because if you don't, then your opinion and your voice won't be heard! Your vote makes a difference and together WE can make a difference!
Angela A. Sep 26, 2008, 2:49pm EDT
If you don't some fool will be elected and ruin the country further.
And, possibility cause the biggest, no, the most stupendous financial disaster in history.
No, wait, that's GW I'm thinking of.
How could it get worse? Hmm, let me see..
If you don't vote, and put the right man in office.
Stephanie B. Sep 26, 2008, 4:40pm EDT
Because many people fought and died for my right to do so.
Sarah (I want points) Sep 26, 2008, 5:13pm EDT
Get out and vote because we as Americans are priveledged to be able to voice our opinions.
Rachel D. Sep 26, 2008, 5:23pm EDT
Get out and vote because it's the ONLY time you are 100% equal to everyone else in America. What other time in your life will you be 100% equal to a Warren Buffet, or a Bill Gates? VOTE!
April H. Sep 26, 2008, 8:44pm EDT
Get OUT and vote because you can!!!
Connie C. Sep 26, 2008, 10:32pm EDT
Get out and vote because people have fought hard so that you do have the privilege of voting. If you do not vote, you do not have any right to complain about the elected officials. It just takes a few minutes of your time to get out and make a difference thus securing your right to brag or complain about those in office.

So if you want to make a difference and feel good about doing it - Go Vote in every election that you are entitled to vote in.

Go Vote!!!!!
M C. Sep 26, 2008, 10:40pm EDT
If nobody voted we'd have no true government, just a complete anarchy and chaos across our nation. At least by voting, we appoint someone who we can blame or praise if things go terribly right or wrong...I encourage all Americans to excercise their civic duty..Get out there and Vote!
Nastacia M. Sep 26, 2008, 11:09pm EDT
i am voting this year because i am too afraid of what might happen if i don't.
My vote could be like in "Swing Vote" and i want to make sure it gets counted. My da is not voting this year. He is so disgusted at both choices, that he said it is the first time in his life he is missing an election.
Bill F. Sep 27, 2008, 1:13am EDT
Get out and vote because…you can't complain about who won or lost if you dont participate.
Heidianna "Coriander" T. Sep 27, 2008, 2:26am EDT
This looks like a very interesting book!

Why should we vote? Because we can! It's part of our freedoms. One hundred years ago, women weren't ALLOWED to vote. If we waste this opportunity, what was the fight for??? It's also our responsibility, to learn about the issues, and speak up for ourselves, and what we believe in. I may not agree with my neighbor, but I will support him/her going to vote for whatever candidate speaks to him/her.
donna f. Sep 27, 2008, 8:26am EDT
We should all vote merely to give voice to our beliefs. Voting is a RIGHT that every person in this country should take very seriously. Look back to Carrie Nation who fought long and hard to give our sisters the vote, and at Voting Rights Act of 1965, which made it illegal to prevent Black Americans from voting.

It is imperative, especially in this year of chaos, that the American people give rise to their own voice, the voice of America, regardless of party affiliation.
brojer n. Sep 27, 2008, 11:25am EDT
The old farmer said:"if you do what you've always done, you'll get what you always got". We owe it to ourselves and the nation to study history and not get caught up in emotional tirades. This means a studied and informed vote on current issues. Being able to recognize wrong headed decisions, and above all electing honest and able people with integrity. We cannot allow the Constitution to be ignored! Officials who take the oath of office, and then follow the whims of politics and pollsters, do not deserve your vote.
Elizabeth V. Sep 27, 2008, 12:17pm EDT
Get out and vote because you can.

Maybe that sounds sarcastic. Maybe it sounds like I'm kidding. I'm serious.

I didn't read the previous comments until just now. I see I'm not the only one who said that.
Nora Davenport Sep 28, 2008, 1:25pm EDT
I think it is very, very important that each and every American citizen of voting age, get out and vote at election time. We tend to take entirely too much for granted in this wonderful country of ours, and it's essential to make our voices heard. Many, many men and women have fought for, and died, protecting our freedoms and rights. We cannot, and must not, just sit back and be so "non-caring" about the future of our country.
When our now 21 yr. old son was little, I would take him with me to the voting booth and would always explain what I was doing and why......the significance of voting and what it means, not only to me, but to my country.......I would always emphasize the fact that we MUST vote. He is now 21 years old and will get to vote the first time in this upcoming election. He said he wouldn't miss it for anything!
Beth G. Sep 28, 2008, 8:17pm EDT
Because 100 years ago no women could legally vote. Because 100 years ago no Irish need apply. Because 100 years ago, Jim Crow laws were going strong in the deep South. And most importantly, because people shed tears, blood, got arrested, and died for the right to vote. Indeed it isn't just a right, it is our responsibility to do so.
Rae M. Sep 28, 2008, 8:21pm EDT
Get out and vote because if you don't you will have no right to complain when things don't go the way you want them to.
April H. Sep 28, 2008, 9:26pm EDT
otherwise you have no right to complain about your taxes or any government programs!
Get out and vote because…if you don't you have no right to complain!
Cindi P. Sep 28, 2008, 10:21pm EDT
Get out and vote because…our children learn by example!

If we don't show them that democracy is a privilege, and should be treated as such, where will we be in 50 years.
Valerie Roars Sep 28, 2008, 10:25pm EDT
Let your voice be heard :)
Elizabeth Madrigal Sep 28, 2008, 10:35pm EDT
Get out and vote because if you don't, I swear I'll track you down and find you.
♠~Dnbuster~♠ ~. Sep 28, 2008, 11:18pm EDT
Get out and vote because…We need to give the comics jokes for the next 4 years..:)
Heather ~of the Whippets~ M. Sep 29, 2008, 12:15am EDT
The personal is the political. That is why we must vote.
Christine Zibas Sep 29, 2008, 1:52am EDT
Get out and Vote because:

when you do, you get a little sticker that says "I voted" and you can maintain a moral superiority all day!
Nancy 67 Sep 29, 2008, 1:54am EDT
It's really quite simple for me: Men died and women marched to give us that freedom.
Christine Zibas Sep 29, 2008, 1:55am EDT
Seriously though, we are all a part of this country, this global economy, this human experience that loves freedom and the right to say how we feel. To vote is to put your hopes and dreams into action, to try and create the world (or at least the country) you want to live in.
Fern Cohen Sep 29, 2008, 9:18am EDT
GET OUT AND VOTE BECAUSE YOU CAN!
Because you have the power!
Every woman and man
lives every waking hour

In a nation where we're free
to make a choice
of what the future will be
for today's girls and boys.

We fought for this right
for everyone in the nation.
Not just male and white,
but total integration.

We fought segregation,
and control of the elite,
we defied misogynation,
triumphed over defeat.

Whether McCain or Obama,
Get your friends to the booth
Your father and your mama,
the vote is your truth!
Michael Harvey Sep 29, 2008, 10:39am EDT
I vote because of the recognization that everything in life is political-from the air I breath to the food I eat. I vote because my grandfather forbided my mother to register in 1946 when she turned 18. I vote because my mother had the nerve to ride her bicycle to the board of elections and suffer the scorn of the white register who did not believe a Negro girl in the county had the right to vote. I vote because she read the Bill of Rights to the registra and was permitted to register. I vote because once she returned home and my grandfather learned that she had registered to vote, then told her she could not go into town on election day and cast her ballot for fear that the Klan would come and burn a cross in his front yard. I vote because in 1948 my mother was not permitted to vote in the Democratic Primary in Georgia-it was called the white primary. I vote because one month shy of her 20th birthday, my mother went into town and casted her ballot in the General Election and helped the nation to elect its next president. I vote because in 1989 my grandmother (age 84) decided it was time to step out of the shadow of my grandfather and register to vote. She voted that year for my brother to represent her on city counsel and for another four years for Jimmy Carter. I vote in order to extend their legacy. I vote because I too am an American.
Trish A. Sep 29, 2008, 10:45am EDT
if you don't vote you don't have the right to complain. It is time we grab our democracy back and leave those that come after us a country that they would be proud to call their own.
DiAnA D. Sep 29, 2008, 12:13pm EDT
I don't care whether I win the book or not i just want my voice heard.. which is really what voting is all about.. if you don't vote.. you don't count!
Laura Cushing Sep 29, 2008, 12:48pm EDT
Get out and vote because if you don't, the commies win.
Marsha S. Sep 29, 2008, 10:24pm EDT
it's your responsibility as a citizen and your vote does counts.
Shannon S. Sep 30, 2008, 2:40pm EDT
...if you don't vote, I don't want to hear you complain. Voting gives you the right to complain about our government.
Amber M. Sep 30, 2008, 3:10pm EDT
get out and vote because.....If you don't you can't complain about who is president
Donald M. Sep 30, 2008, 3:12pm EDT
I agree with everyone that said, "if you dont vote, dont complain after the election".
We may not be happy with the outcome but now feel that we have done all we can to make a change.
Laura C. Sep 30, 2008, 3:28pm EDT
we should vote because it's the only way we as citizens have to effect change in the government. If we don't vote for the candidate we want, we don't really have a right to complain when whoever gets into office messes up. I as a woman especially vote because of the brave women who fought for women to have the right to vote. It's our voice that gets the people into office. While we can't really control what they do when they get there, we can control who gets there.
Stephannie H. Sep 30, 2008, 3:59pm EDT
because we need to exercise our right and we need to vote for the best person to win to run our country
You should get out and vote because it does matter. If you want representation, you have to vote for it. Maybe we can't always feel secure about the method, the electronic voting machines and dishonest companies that provide them, but we proved in Ohio that votes can get rid of the wrong leadership. As Secretary of State, Ken Blackwell tried his damnest to disconnect voters from the process, but he is not governor of Ohio today because citizens didn't trust him and voted overwelmingly for his opponent.

Votes because it can work. Vote so you can tell your kids, grandkids, and great grandkids what kind of world you tried to shape for them.
Cortney R. Sep 30, 2008, 10:24pm EDT
Because if you don't your vote won't count.
Samantha H. Oct 1, 2008, 11:09am EDT
Get out and vote, because if you don't, then you don't have the right to complain and you'll have to keep your mouth shut for four whole years until you get the chance to vote again!
Get out and vote because it's the right thing to do. I believe that every vote can make a difference. If you don't vote, then you don't have the right to moan and complain about stuff that's going on that you don't like.

If you don't like either person running for a position, then pick the lesser evil.

Get out and vote! And remember California, to vote NO on 8.
CyberGwen ! Oct 2, 2008, 1:52am EDT
Every vote matters. People seem to think that it doesn't effect them and who they want to win won't, so why bother. There are so many other local issues to vote on that will effect your day to day life and when it comes down to it. It is the smaller issues that suffer the most from low voter turn out and they just might be vitally important to you and your community.
Ariel Storm Oct 2, 2008, 7:41am EDT
I think everyone should vote because Leonardo DiCaprio said "If you're not going to vote I don't even know what to say to you anymore." Please not this is not a serious reason but rather a humorous one
Sue * Oct 2, 2008, 9:07am EDT
because....we are lucky to live in a country where we can vote. I also think that if you want to complain about the system, you should at least try to change it with your vote.
☀ Aunt Shanny Oct 2, 2008, 9:09am EDT
it's time for CHANGE!
Mary M. Oct 2, 2008, 4:22pm EDT
In so many countries, people have no say in who their leaders will be. Here in America, we may not always like the choices placed before us, but at least we have a choice.
Roberta Moto Oct 2, 2008, 7:58pm EDT
it's a responsibility to be active in how the government is run, to bring up issues that are important to you and your family and community, because my Mom was 1 year old when Natives were finally given the right to vote, because the future depends on it. I can go on and on
Teresa W. Oct 2, 2008, 10:44pm EDT
"Get out and Vote because it is our responsibility and our right as Americans who live in this country to do so."
Angel sent from God Secret Sisters Oct 2, 2008, 10:55pm EDT
Vote to keep your freedom. Do not vote or vote incorrectly is your own fault. Do not complain after if you do not vote.
Karen L. Oct 2, 2008, 11:21pm EDT
Vote because you have the freedom to do so, Not everyone in this world has this right!
I think it is important to vote because one vote can make a difference. Even when the candidates leave something to be desired, one should vote for the lesser of two evils. If you don't vote then you shouldn't complain about who wins.
Lynn R. Oct 3, 2008, 10:58am EDT
Yes, as Katie said, it is every American's reponsibilty to vote. Regardless of who you are supporting and what you think of the candidates. You have no right to complain about the outcome if you don't show up at the polls.
Hollie ~TNR Works~ Oct 3, 2008, 11:27am EDT
Get out and vote because...If you don't vote you don’t have a right to complain about government decisions you don't like; no matter how much they suck. A government by the people, and for the people can't work "without" the people. The only way democracy works is if you (the people) vote in all the elections, big or small. While it is easy to say "one vote really ddoesn't make a difference" the reality is, it does make a difference, every single vote counts.
Shelbia C. Oct 3, 2008, 10:12pm EDT
Everyone should get out and vote because your one vote could be all that stands between a win and a loss for your candidate. This election is more important than any other in history and the circumstances surrounding this election are unique enough that every vote truly does count. The proof of this is in just how close the race was between Hillary and Obama. Our country is falling apart and if that really matters to you then you need to vote and make sure that your voice is heard. No one can hear if you don't make it official
Wanda H. Oct 4, 2008, 2:54am EDT
Each person should vote because this is one of our most precious freedoms. Lately, I have begun to feel that voting is just not enough. More of us, myself included, should become more active politically.

I do have another reason for even MORE people should get out and vote. I think the more of us who vote, the more politicians will begin to really listen to their constituents. Iimagine a congressman, with 100% voter turnout at every election. THose voters being more involved, informed. With a 50% turnout, who cares if 50% of your people don't like what you do? They probably don't vote anyway. But if 100% vote and 50% don't like what you do, you could be out on your a$$.
Cibercore Cybercorrespondent Oct 5, 2008, 2:16pm EDT
These two videos might help you decide who to vote for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRmB93McZeI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MGT_cSi7Rs
Cybercorrespondent
http://cybercorrespondent.blogspot.com
Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team Oct 7, 2008, 9:59am EDT
Thanks to everyone who participated. Those who were drawn to receive a copy of Dumbocracy are:

Randee Court Jester of LaLa Land. where it's always 85º and sunny
Linda G.
Sarah (I want points)
Rachel D.
Nastacia M.
donna f.
Fern Cohen
~* Twisted Lil Angel *~ Amber Moore
Stephannie H.
Sue *
Andrea (Ms. Conservative) L. Oct 26, 2008, 5:08pm EDT
congrats to the winners

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