Thursday, January 5, 2012

Politics 24-7

By the time the presidential election year rolls around, and the state primaries begin, most Americans have already had enough presidential campaigning, and are ready to move on. Yet, it has only just begun .On drags the campaign, through spring, into summer, endless pep rallies, banal rhetoric, petty quarrels and accusations. For all our trouble we finally get a president with whom half of us are soon dissatisfied.

Isn't there a better way? Probably not. European political campaigns are limited to several weeks, which seems reasonable. But is it really better that way? If there is one aspect of civic life that ought not be hurried, it might be the selection of our leaders.

If there is any benefit to American presidential elections, it might be in their very longevity. Americans, notoriously apathetic, are encouraged by soundbites to keep thinking about the important issues - constantly. Of course, that same info saturation might be a contributing factor to national apathy... 

Long live American politics! May the day come when every day is election day, and a day of vigorous campaigning, for the next election.

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