Why do people think their votes don't count?

Question

I think it's in some politicians' interests to discourage people from getting out to vote - our apathy and disgust helps them.

Then again, if you truly feel "the system is rigged," then isn't it hypocritical to vote at all?

I dunno. The system is not perfect, and needs improvement, but why do so many appear to have given up?

I wonder if people will say the same things after the elections as they say now, depending on whether or not they like the outcome.

Answer 1

No, politician's want and need the vote to win the election. I think people say their votes don't count because they usually don't vote, and don't want other people to criticize them for not voting. But who knows, everyone's vote matters!

Answer 2

The system is rigged. In America, the country is divided into areas and the winner of that area becomes that area's member of the House of Representatives. However, the representatives of that State are entitled to draw the electoral boundaries for electoral gain. This is true for both the Republicans and Democrats, with Texas being the worst offender.

So, if I live in an area where 70% of the district vote for one party, then my vote doesn't count. It doesn't matter what party I vote for, it will not effect the outcome of the elction - the same person will be elected regardless of who I vote for. This system has many flaws.

1. It increases the number of seats for large parties and makes it more difficult for independents. In 2005, The British Labour Party won 35% of the votes, but 55% of the seat. The Liberal Democrats won 20% of the vote but 10% of the seats, because WHERE you win votes becomes more important than HOW MANY you win.

2. It reduces turnout if you live in a safe seat.

There are various other reasons. See the attached link for more details.

The alternative is to use a system of proportional representation where percentage of seats won is equal to percentage of votes cast

However, some countries use a system of proportional representation where percentage of votes is equal to percentage of seats in an elected chamber.

The US's Electoral College also works in a similar way to Gerrymandering.

Answer 3

If you look at out most recent elections...it almost proves they don't count.

Gore clearly won the "popular" vote (the people's voice, yet the Electoral College (and his brother Jeb) pushed him in.

Clearly, the voice of the people (votes) weren't accounted for.

Unfortunately, it has been like that in many elections in our history, both nationally and locally, and it has caused great disappointment to the people thus discouraging many from participating in this process.

My greatest wish is the people would continue to go out and vote - ALL ELIGBLE AMERICANS - cast you vote, make your voice heard!

...or else, if you choose to be silent during the elections (not vote), then remain silent throughout the terms of those elected because you did not vote!


If you're not a part of the solution...then you are part of the problem.

Answer 4

It's like VWJennifer said. The two parties spend so much time blasting each other in a show for the peoples' benefit, that no issues really get discussed. It is all part of the plan to get people muddled and divided. If people are sidetracked, they are likely to forget what the issues are. It is easier to keep the masses at bay so the politicians can continue along with their own agendas, and do the bidding of all the special interests who contributed to their campaigns.

Answer 5

The Republican and Democrat parties are essentially separate wings of a single party, differing only slightly in priorities and methods. Regardless of the outcome of the national elections, there will be no fundamental change.

Legitimate third (and other) parties are constrained by election rules designed by and for the benefit of the Republicans, Democrats and their financial supporters.

"Apathy" is not the problem. It is simply a word used to dismiss those who have been disenfranchised. The real problem is lack of a true choice offering real solutions to real issues.

Answer 6

Well let's just say that a generous "handful" of Benjamins can do more than what one person votes for if you get my drift. Do you really think one person makes a difference? It could, but this is the big leagues, they can do everything to make it go their way, i.e. recall, count the votes again. In theory, everyone should vote for the benefit of society, but we all know that everyone is motivated by their own needs and interests.

Answer 7

I think its because its 1 vote amongst 1000's or even millions. So the perception is that one vote won't change things or has little effect on the outcome. But in aggregate each vote certainly does and in a close election, small numbers of votes do matter.

So, regardless of your affiliation-- GO VOTE!

Answer 8

I think my biggest frustration with the voting process isn't the actual voting, it's the way the candidates blast each other over and over for months on the television. It turns into a vote for the least nasty candidate. It sickens me to see the ads with name-calling and mud-slinging. Why can't they just state their agenda, keep it neat and clean, and back it up with proof of what they themselves have done already. Leave the name-calling out of it. It's just childish and shows ignorance.

Answer 9

The deceitfulness of politicians for one...

The inability to keep campaign promises...

The huge gulf apparent between officials and their constituents..

Big business and special interest taking precedence over voters..

The creed " To serve the people" is seen as a farce nowadays.

Answer 10

Who do you know that voted for Bush? So many people who didnt vote, voted for Kerry. They had a vote or die thing where the subliminal message was to vote for Kerry. After all of that, Bush still won.