RE: Choice #2 E Questions

[Joan Johnson <joan@altair.com>]

I would like to suggest that apathetic voters may only be inundated voters.  I have a couple of ah-has from this online forum. One) staying informed is a massive job because information pertaining to the subject is often hard to find, not always in depth, requires me to sometimes have a knowledge of constitutional law, and requires me to be encumbered by the thought process.
Two) I work full time and have the usual things to take care of: house, personal stuff, and a social life. I do not have children running around with all their activities to add to my workload.

I am finding just how much time I'd like to spend vs what I can spend is significantly different. I do not feel totally informed, especially after I read all your comments and realize I hadn't thought of that particular slant on the issue. Getting enough information from enough facets of the issue to make an informed, thoughtful decision could ultimately be a career!

So I have a bit more understanding the circumstances that might lead people to not participate even though they have some interest. It takes energy to "lean against the rock" until it moves; from some of the stories all of you have related, much leaning needed to be done.

As far as the 10% participation in the campaigns goes, I have seen that number given about the participation of members of most groups. It's about the number of surveys that are returned also. It most likely is true, that the 10% who feel strongly, pro or con, are the participants and the rest wait until the vote is in, so as to speak.

Since many more do not participate in the political process except for the time they may put in at the polling place, what could we do to ensure the needs of the community are addressed instead of "squeaky wheel" issues? What ways exist that fit with the hectic lifestyle of ordinary citizens to help them express their needs? Or, should we simply say "If ya snooze, ya loose"?

Joan