U S of Americans

[skinsk]

Just a reminder for those of us who will be overseas for the election. . . it's important to plan early so you can VOTE!

http://www.votefromabroad.org/ is a good resource. Vote early and often.

[Shagymb]

Sonia,

I didn't know you were from Chicago or is that a New Orleans saying as well?

Vote early and often.

[skinsk]

Are you kidding?! In Louisiana, politics is a spectator sport! That (Vote early and often)'s what the guy told me when I registered to vote at 18.

US Pres is so world-wide influential, I kinda think everyone (non-citizen) shuld get .10 vote in the outcome. . . or let's say 10% of the electorial votes, ours being a representative democracy.

[shanja]

I totally second that idea! If non-US citizens could vote vote (even a 0.1% power vote) it would be sweet as! Still we might need to extend that right then to other world powers who have "open" electoral processes.
What a concept though, world citizens voting in national elections...maybe if not for an actual representative (President, PM etc) then maybe at least for certain major policies that have a specifically global role. That might even enhance world stability and cohesion.
So if Australia say wanted to embark on a policy of dumping toxic waste into the South Pacific, it could be legally vetoed by a world citizenry vote.
Same for policies on energy, health, environment and war (or even certain economic policies). If their impact were to be significantly broader than the national boundaries, those others who stand to be affected by the policy would also have a say.
I think national sovereignty is way out-dated and a lame hurdle to genuine action. It lets Sudan, Myanmar, Chinese Tibet etc etc etc get away with crimes in full view of the world. Why do we need to respect this insidious carte blanch defense?:rant:
But anyways have a nice day!:p

[JMK]

Are you kidding?! In Louisiana, politics is a spectator sport! That (Vote early and often)'s what the guy told me when I registered to vote at 18.

US Pres is so world-wide influential, I kinda think everyone (non-citizen) shuld get .10 vote in the outcome. . . or let's say 10% of the electorial votes, ours being a representative democracy.

Would we get .10 vote in Russia and/or China (etc)? Pandora's box anyone?

JMK

[skinsk]

Would we get .10 vote in Russia and/or China (etc)?

China, sure. . . Russia. . . well, maybe pretty soon. . . (0.05 now:rolleyes8 )esp as they start making policy that determines the fate of so many others around the globe-- so far, that's largely the USA. . . with China getting more and more influential by the minute. . . and yes, arguments could be made for every country's actions having an effect on others, but I am looking at the big picture...

Anyway, might I bring us back now to the original post-- those of us who can vote, should-- at least once!! (Unless you're voting McCush. . . then never mind :p )