“A tinpot Parliament voted in by a tiny minority” – Andrew Coyne, Maclean’s Nov.24th/08

Andrew Coyne makes interesting observations and comments in his last column. I have always been conflicted about how to vote: should I vote for the party or should I cast my vote for the local member, whatever his party affiliation? With a few exceptions, I have chosen to vote for the party. However, this is one facet of our democratic process that is less than perfect. “One person, one vote” sounds fair and equitable, until you consider the unequal populations in our various provinces. That’s the conundrum of a federal state.

As usual, Mr. Coyne makes some pointed and rational observations. I agree that more televised debates are desirable, but they should also be of substance, not just showboating by the participants. It emerges, though, that the public wants to be hoodwinked, or at least tacitly accept it. How else to explain that our politicians are not held to account for promises made and broken.

There are ways to make the process more equitable and fair, but making change in the electoral system is fraught with its own problems and dangers. Our parliamentary system, inherited from Britain, has evolved over a very long time, and is not readily changed. There are too many vested interests –winners and losers – in such a process. Just look at the success we are having, reforming (or removing) the retirement home we call The Senate.

I agree that Australia’s mandatory voting process is “crude”; but effective? I sincerely doubt it. Furthermore, if we pay citizens to vote, what kind of thoughtful decision do you think such people would make? And if we force them to vote, would that be of any benefit to the polity? I maintain that if someone are not prepared to weigh carefully their choices and are not motivated enough to vote on their own volition, then we are better off as a society without their input. We need to vote for good people to lead and guide our country, people unhampered by pressure groups, lobbyists and bribery.

The voting percentage is no higher in the US – even in this last election; with the high stakes and the different choices facing the American voters; even with an energized and encouraged youth and Latino vote, the total turnout was still only in the sixties percentile.

Most people do not neglect to vote in order to protest, or because they are disillusioned. Mainly, they don’t vote because they are indifferent and complacent. Let them be.