Why is it that people are so locked into voting Democrat or Republican?

Question

I know that most people don't want to "throw" their vote away on some candidate that has no chance to win, but the vicious cycle begins when everybody seems to feel this way, and vote this way. I happen to believe that if everyone voted with their heart, their candidate might not win, but the peoples' wishes would be represented better on the big stage.

Answer 1

i have never thrown my vote away and voted 3rd party many times

Answer 2

Well first there is no such thing as a wasted vote. Your vote is your voice and tells the "powers that be" what the general population wants.

But I think too many people don't look at the deeper issues and vote on habit becasue they "always vote Dem/Rep". Sad to say but most of our nation consists of "sheeple" that blindly folllow the media influence.

I'm voting Ron Paul. He's truly the best candidate based on his views, not on party lines.

Answer 3

I agree with you, but I've come to recognize that for many, politics is a team sport. What counts to them is the number of players on their team that get into the game. What matters when deciding a law or voting on a nominee is what's best for the team.

I don't think there are enough people who would be willing to chance their team losing by making the non-party gesture of a vote on principle to make a difference. But then I'm jaded...

Answer 4

INERTIA! The feeling that "What's the use of throwing away my vote on a third party that has no chance?" It's all about money. This buys access to the media. The media is "the road to Rome". Sorry. Stinks, huh?

Answer 5

Many people are not. Independent voters swing many elections. The parties have become so polarized that it's hard to find a candidate who occupies the middle ground, but I agree that if someone did they might find widespread support.

Answer 6

FEAR, FEAR, FEAR!
Because w/ the exception of maybe 2 of those 'other' parties are too extreme.
Ppl would rather get screwed by a 'Demo' or a 'Repo' than anyone else. Because ppl tend to fear the unknown this prohibits them from actually going out and researching other parties as well as their candidates.

Answer 7

People wanted an alternative to the Democrat and Republican platforms due to inconsistent public service to the people who perceive that these politicians are just enriching themselves.

Answer 8

Thier parents voted one ticket and they usually vote the same ticket.