Boycott the Voting Booth

by Dick Rider

Mind you, I'm not suggesting that you abstain from voting. Boycotting the election process is an interesting tactic, but let us save that discussion for another time. What I am suggesting is that you consider voting by mail using the so-called absentee ballot.

Although the June election is "only" the primary, we need as many Libertarian votes as possible for our local slate of candidates so that we don't look too foolish when the results are published. More importantly, there are several significant state and county propositions coming up, including yet another 1/2 cent county sales tax increase. Last November, a 1/2 cent sales tax increase passed with less than 10% of the county population voting for it!

Many people do not vote because they feel it simply isn't worth the hassle. Perhaps they're right. The time spent going to the polls, standing in line, signing the register, voting in the cramped booth and then returning home could be much more productively spent doing just about anything else.

The procedure is ridiculously easy. In the back of your voting booklet is a post card for requesting a mail ballot. Sign the card as you are registered. That's it! No excuses must be made as to why you wish to vote by mail. Your ballot will arrive by mail. You fill out the ballot at home anytime before the election and mail back in the enclosed envelope. No witnessing of signatures is required. About the only caveat is that you must request the ballot at least a week before the election.

Frankly I think that voting should not be so convenient; studies indicate that easy voting procedures increase the statist vote. Nevertheless I recommend that you consider the mail ballot option. Enjoy your extra free time!