Wednesday, November 19, 2008

My vote mattered too!

As I was writing my comprehensive exam during the primary season (read: sitting in front of my computer all day for months), I got myself really worked up about every back and forth of the campaign during this election year. I read opinions, followed the updates and watched the candidates move across the country on the campaign trail. I was also closely following the story of Uncle Ted, seven times a felon, and the mind boggling possibility of his re-election, and then possible dismissal, and then the impending question of who in Alaska would possibly be interested in going to fill his Senate seat... the implications give me indigestion.

Thanks to the electoral college, I cast my vote for president because I should, not because it 'counts.' Matt was thrilled to be a PA voter in a swing state, so he really felt like he personally had a hand in the outcome. And while everyone around me had post-campaign hangovers, I was still watching the ballot count in Alaska. Who would believe that Stevens could win? But the numbers were close, and there are always more to count. But big relief, the final tally shows Stevens will be staying home. I get to walk around with that happy feeling that living and participating in democracy gives you- even if no one else noticed

1 comment:

Gordie said...

Yes, yes, yes, you counted! I cannot describe the dismay that rose with the first tide of votes that moved up the traditional line of "uncle Ted's" count on election night and then to realize over the next 2 weeks that all the 'early voters', absentees, and remote military ballots were coming from committed, thoughtful young voters who wanted to have a voice that spoke new ideas....the tide changed, the surge shifted, and we no longer had to visualize felons from Alaska, Palin self- appointments, or a grim picture of public embarassment for our state, at least until Don Young gets his. Thank you, thank you both for your parts. love Dad