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Fun Stuff => CHATTER => Topic started by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 06:44

Title: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 06:44
Alright, Americans, it's Election Day.

Just a friendly reminder, whether you're Barracking the Vote or boarding the Straight Talk Express, now's the time to do it.

Get off your lazy backsides and go vote for somebody.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: rynne on 04 Nov 2008, 07:02
     Voting.  It's what's the haps.
    /
 :-D
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Blue Kitty on 04 Nov 2008, 07:08
My teachers being awesome about letting us skip class to vote.  We can come in late if we have a voting sticker, and he's letting us out early to vote.

Oh yeah, vote, or Alan Scott will find you
(http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/8610/voteix9.jpg)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 07:09
Hey, I know a lot of people are all "No way man, I'm not gonna vote, they're all as bad as each other, why should I encourage them?" - but you know what? This is the democracy you have, it's the only one you have, it's not perfect but it's the only one you're gonna get, and either Obama or McCain is going to become president regardless of whether you stay home or not  - so pick whichever one you'd rather see in the top job, get to the polling booth and embrace your democracy, warts and all, and don't opt out, opt in.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 04 Nov 2008, 07:30
Already voted last week, dudes. But if there are people that haven't voted yet you should really get out and do it!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Seductivpancakes on 04 Nov 2008, 07:35
I'm probably going to vote after work. We have till 9PM here in nyc, so i'll time to pickup some groceries.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: imapiratearg on 04 Nov 2008, 07:44
I'm voting as soon as I get some clean clothes.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: valley_parade on 04 Nov 2008, 07:47
I won't get home until about 4. But then I am going to vote.

And then I am going to attempt to sleep.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Nov 2008, 08:10
I just voted 10 minutes ago and I am excited
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 04 Nov 2008, 08:12
Did you get a sweet sticker?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 04 Nov 2008, 08:23
I have to wait for my sticker until after work. Oh well.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Nov 2008, 08:25
Did you get a sweet sticker?

No. That was disappointing.  They didn't have them at my ward
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: glyphic on 04 Nov 2008, 09:08
I voted first thing this morning! I used the touch screen and it didn't summon demons or drink my blood!

Hooray for Democracy! I can't wait for the electoral college to ignore what I had to say.  :-P
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ozymandias on 04 Nov 2008, 09:14
I voted on Satursdays.

It smelled like freedom. Freedom and money.

Like America.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: rynne on 04 Nov 2008, 09:36
My vote smelled like a 70-year-old gym (probably because I voted in a 70-year-old gym).  Does freedom smell like old sweat and body odor? 


But my "I Voted / Yo Vote" sticker smells good.  As will the free Starbucks coffee it'll get me in a couple hours.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 04 Nov 2008, 09:40
My voting location smells like stale pizza because it's in the lunchroom of an elementary school. I hope that's not what freedom smells like.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 04 Nov 2008, 09:47
As will the free Starbucks coffee it'll get me in a couple hours.[/i]

Is this a nationwide promotion? 'Cause I haven't heard of it and shit I could use some free Starbucks.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 09:49
I am currently sitting in my local polling place. But I am not currently voting.
I am being an observer for Fair Wisconsin to make sure people's rights aren't being violated.

...In short, I am bored out of my friggin' mind, and people are idiots when they only vote for the president. I mean seriously...take a Pol. Science class people.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 04 Nov 2008, 09:54
Why did you volunteer for something like that if you're gonna be bored and not pay attention or care?

Also not everyone is politically inclined. It is awesome of people who generally wouldn't give a shit even about the president to get involved at whatever level they feel comfortable at.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: imapiratearg on 04 Nov 2008, 09:57
Did you get a sweet sticker?

No. That was disappointing.  They didn't have them at my ward

Man, I didn't get one either.  I was upset, to say the least.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 09:59
Oh, I never said I didn't care.
And I did it to help out a friend who actually works for the organization.
And I am actually paying a lot of attention. Seriously, you should see some of the notes I am writing down.

I'm just annoyed that all of these college students that the the President is actually the highest power-office in the US. I mean, they SHOULD be voting local/state level offices, I mean they're the ones that are going to most directly effect their educations at large (which, as college students, we should be most concerned about, amiright?). I don't think they need to be like totally for/against a local candidate, but they should at least be informed.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: RedLion on 04 Nov 2008, 10:01
I voted already over a week ago in my hometown rather than voting where I go to college, as I figure the college itself will have Beloit in the bag, whereas Janesville is more divided down the middle.

It was fucking HARDCORE. Filling in those little arrows, mmmm. That's the stuff.

I am mildly hopped up on (legal, prescribed!) narcotics, so pardon my idiocy.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: rynne on 04 Nov 2008, 10:16
As will the free Starbucks coffee it'll get me in a couple hours.

Is this a nationwide promotion? 'Cause I haven't heard of it and shit I could use some free Starbucks.

It is: a tall coffee is free.  In fact, it was just pointed out that it's illegal in some states for Starbucks to give out "gifts" to people who vote (because of election laws and whatnot), so the promotion is now open to anyone regardless if you voted or not. 
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 10:22
For the record, Ben & Jerry's is giving out a free scoop of ice cream for voters, too.

My vote goes for ice cream!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: JD on 04 Nov 2008, 10:25
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5Kg-K7em20&feature=channel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5Kg-K7em20&feature=channel)

VOOOOOOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Nov 2008, 10:25
There is a free round of drinks for anyone who wears an "I voted" sticker to the concert I'm going to tonight.

That makes me extra angry that my ward didn't have them
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: rynne on 04 Nov 2008, 10:26
Not to mention a free star-shaped Krispy Kreme election donut!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 10:35
Also, Shane will apparently be giving out free hand jobs to anyone who votes.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: valley_parade on 04 Nov 2008, 10:47
I wasn't aware of this.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 10:49
Damn it, if only I had a penis...

Actually, I wish there was a Krispy Kreme around here. Their donuts are friggin' delicious!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 10:51
I wasn't aware of this.

Sorry man, corporate went over our heads. Totally out of my hands...


...and into yours.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 10:56
I look forward to a free scoop of Always Remember to go with my small cup of Never Forget.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 04 Nov 2008, 11:01
i came very close to voiding my vote this morning.

i vote by mail so i got my ballot like two weeks ago but haven't gotten around to mailing it yet and was planning on dropping it at the post office on my way to work this morning but i got stuck behind a train so i was running late and decided to drop it off on my lunch break.
which is really lucky and good because it turns out the ballots go down south about an hour and a half to get counted and it wouldn't get post-marked until it was down there (tomorrow) anyway, so if i would have put it in the mail today it would have been like not voting at all.

whew! close call!

Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Shakleton on 04 Nov 2008, 11:16
My vote smelled like a 70-year-old gym (probably because I voted in a 70-year-old gym).  Does freedom smell like old sweat and body odor? 

Not if you were voting for the democrats!  :lol:

As for myself, I didn't vote because I'm from Germany. Wohooo!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 11:19
(Pssst. I'd like to keep this thread party insult free. There's a reason I put it here and not the Discuss forum)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: negative creep on 04 Nov 2008, 11:37
As for myself, I didn't vote because I'm from Germany. Wohooo!

o/


I might be going to the election night party at my university, though.

One thing that really bugs me about voting and/or democracy is that "vote, no matter who you vote for" attitude. If it didn't matter, why should you even bother voting?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: BankHoldUp on 04 Nov 2008, 11:48
Not to mention a free star-shaped Krispy Kreme election donut!

An election doughnut sounds delicious! Too bad the Krispy Kreme franchises in my area closed because the owner went to jail or something. No doughnut for me   :-(


No matter, democracy is just as delicious as doughnuts.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KvP on 04 Nov 2008, 11:50
Vote, or Megadeth will tape your mouth shut. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyxkfnAvbuY&eurl=http://www.avclub.com/content/newswire/remember_vote)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 11:51
Life would probably be that much sweeter if Dave Mustaine never took the tape off.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Nov 2008, 11:52
One thing that really bugs me about voting and/or democracy is that "vote, no matter who you vote for" attitude. If it didn't matter, why should you even bother voting?

That's not really what that statement means. It matters that you do vote, but it doesn't matter who you vote for.  It is a basic non-partisan phrase that simply tries to encourage participation in our government (you know, that whole democracy thing)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Dazed on 04 Nov 2008, 11:59
Also, pay attention to your local elections/propositions. Obviously there's been a bunch of hooplah about prop 8 on this site, and in my home state of MA we have a few big issues on the ticket. SO, don't be stupid, it's not too late to at least do some research and get your opinions figured out. Just do it quick.

Don't fuck this up, people.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tuna ketchup x on 04 Nov 2008, 12:10
people are idiots when they only vote for the president. I mean seriously...take a Pol. Science class people.

I only voted for the President, the Green Party candidate for the state house, and a dumb referendum. The Democrats always win in the local offices anyway, and most of them were running unopposed, so I wouldn't vote for them even if I liked them. Although afterwards my fiancee told me that our Attorney General is a Republican, oops. But anyway, I'd rather people just voted in the elections they know about than just pull the Democrat or Republican lever or pretend that they know what they're voting for, as far as local elections go. And I personally think the President will have more of an impact on my life than a circuit court judge. (Hi, three new Judges in the SC!)

I've never gotten a sticker! Sucks. After voting we went and did calling to make sure people know where their voting place is. I'm going to do a bit more later, it will keep me away from this forum and CNN.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 04 Nov 2008, 12:13
Even though they are two completely separate groups I think it's pretty funny that some go "AMURKA LAND OF THE FREE HOME OF THE BRAEV!!21!" and others need an incentive like a scoop of icecream or a coffee to get off their asses and vote.

This is America! People are fat and lazy, Jens, you should know that by now.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 12:17
I -just voted-. Almost straight democratic, but I did vote Republican for a local office (simply because she was the only name on the ballot I recognized). I didn't vote for anyone who was unopposed (simply because I didn't really have a name to write in...), and then I voted on the referendum for the city about Health Care.

I kind of wish we had a bigger battle going on this year. Jeez.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 04 Nov 2008, 12:36
Right, I voted at like 10am this morning then went straight to class. You can officially call me a tax and spend liberal if you want, because I pretty much for for all of the questions that overall came up to around 200 million in spending for Maryland or something...\

Obama/Biden 2008

Also voted NO on Question #2 against Maryland slot machine licenses, that supposedly would go towards funding education. Who would all grow up to be gambling addicts?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 12:50
Guys, again, I know this is a thread ABOUT a political situation, but my intent was more for knowledge and awareness than for voicing political dissent and opinions. Some of these remarks are leading down that path.

For the sake of keeping this thread relatively politically neutral, what say we open a related thread in discuss, eh?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Peet on 04 Nov 2008, 12:52
So what is actually on a US ballot paper. You all seem to be voting for about a gajillion things at once. I have not voted ever but i gather all that's on a British one is the choice of who you want to represent your region in Parliament.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 12:54
It varies on a state to state and sometimes county by county basis. The general ballot is President, any open for vote (Both federal and state, as I recall) senate or house of representatives seats and a selection of propositions (Laws, spending plans, etc) up for vote at the state level.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 04 Nov 2008, 13:00
Yeah, there's state officials, city officials, sometimes there are levees to vote on, and there are different issues as well, both state and city.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: benji on 04 Nov 2008, 13:03
An example: this morning, I voted for the following:

President of the United States
A Senator to represent Kentucky in the US Senate
A Congressman to represent my little corner of Kentucky in the US House of Representatives
A State Senator
A member of the Kentucky House of Representatives
2 County Commissioners
A member of the city council
A school board member
A member of the Kentucky Supreme Court
A member of the Kentucky Court of Appeals
A member of the county Circuit Court
2 members of the county District Court
I think there was one other judgeship that I'm forgetting.

Kentucky doesn't usually do state referendums unless there's going to be an amendment to the state constitution. There wasn't any such amendment.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: rynne on 04 Nov 2008, 13:17
Also voted NO on Question #2 against Maryland slot machine licenses, that supposedly would go towards funding education. Who would all grow up to be gambling addicts?

Hello, fellow Marylander!  I hope you voted YES on Question 1?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 13:31
An example: this morning, I voted for the following:
[MASSIVE LIST]

Jesus, what a pain in the arse! No wonder you struggle to get people out and voting in the U.S. In Australia we vote for a local member in the House of Representatives, and a state Senator. And that's it. If we want to we can put a number next to every single candidate, or just vote for the single person we want in each position.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 04 Nov 2008, 13:32
I'm voting no on our issue to get a casino. They decided to NOT have it help with education, so now there's no point, IMO.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 13:37
Okay, I just heard a guy on the radio say "I already know who the winner is in this election, and it's the United States."

It can only get better from here!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 13:43
HEY GUYS, CHECK ME OUT!!! (http://forums.questionablecontent.net/index.php/topic,21609.0.html)

Seriously, I know it's very limiting and feels weird in a thread technically about politics, but running off one's selections and such is just asking for political debate in a thread that's not meant for political debate. I've created the separate thread in the Discuss forum explicitly for that purpose.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: negative creep on 04 Nov 2008, 13:48
One thing that really bugs me about voting and/or democracy is that "vote, no matter who you vote for" attitude. If it didn't matter, why should you even bother voting?

That's not really what that statement means. It matters that you do vote, but it doesn't matter who you vote for.  It is a basic non-partisan phrase that simply tries to encourage participation in our government (you know, that whole democracy thing)

If it doesn't mean that, why would you phrase it that way? Because the way it sounds it does exactly mean that.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: mberan42 on 04 Nov 2008, 14:09
I voted this morning! I was ballot #69! I chuckled 'cause I still (at exactly 1 month shy of 28) think that's funny.

Here are the things that were on my ballot:



I did my civic duty by researching EVERY SINGLE position before I voted. (Mostly by seeing who was endorsed by the Chicago papers and seeing who I disagreed with.) I didn't get a sticker; I got a little piece of paper that says "Chicago Board of Election Commissioners BALLOT RECEIPT NOVEMBER 4, 2008 GENERAL ELECTION  THANK YOU FOR VOTING!"

Woo, voting!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: BrilliantEraser on 04 Nov 2008, 14:12
I voted! I had to wait in line an hour and a half, but at least I got a sweet sticker and a t-shirt. Oh, yeah, and I got to help influence the future of our country. Which is pretty cool, I guess, but not so much as the totally bitchin' shirt I am now wearing.  :wink:
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Blue Kitty on 04 Nov 2008, 14:33
I voted around 1:30.  Didn't have to wait in any line, out in less then 10 minutes.
There were more people on the ballot then I could remember.

Maybe post a pic of my sticker later
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: benji on 04 Nov 2008, 14:41
Jesus, what a pain in the arse! No wonder you struggle to get people out and voting in the U.S. In Australia we vote for a local member in the House of Representatives, and a state Senator. And that's it. If we want to we can put a number next to every single candidate, or just vote for the single person we want in each position.

Yeah, ballot bloat is an issue. We don't have a direct democracy, but by the number of items on the ballot, you could have fooled me. American style democracy is very complex compared to most parliamentary systems.

EDIT: At least in terms of how many people we have to vote on. In terms of how you actually decide who's in charge after that, parliamentary systems can get very complex.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 04 Nov 2008, 14:50
just dropped my ballot off a bit ago.

feels pretty good. i'm almost 22 and i've never voted on anything before now.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Dimmukane on 04 Nov 2008, 14:52
Also voted NO on Question #2 against Maryland slot machine licenses, that supposedly would go towards funding education. Who would all grow up to be gambling addicts?

Hello, fellow Marylander!  I hope you voted YES on Question 1?
I think I voted yes on everything BUT 2.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Cartilage Head on 04 Nov 2008, 15:28
 It took me like a minute to vote for everything. It was pretty okay.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 04 Nov 2008, 15:30
I voted yes to everything but 2 as well, also with the touch screens that they have where i voted you could choose not to vote on issues, so if you didn't feel comfortable or knowledgable enough about a subject/couldn't give a rat's ass and just went to vote for prez, you could skip em.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 16:28
I voted this morning! I was ballot #69! I chuckled 'cause I still (at exactly 1 month shy of 28) think that's funny.

Here are the things that were on my ballot:

  • Should Illinois have a Constitutional Convention to revise its current constitution?
I am sooooooooooo jealous. Alabama needs a new constitution in the worst possible way, and it ain't happening.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 17:08
people are idiots when they only vote for the president. I mean seriously...take a Pol. Science class people.

I did vote Republican for a local office (simply because she was the only name on the ballot I recognized)

I, um. wow!

This is -not- hypocritical. At least I voted for the office! (It also helped that the other name on the ballot was Libertarian and I'm not really sure how I feel about them yet...)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 17:24
Well, I am pretty sure that she is the person currently in office, and she hasn't fucked anything up yet...so, obviously she's doing a good job. Plus, I've actually met the woman at least twice in passing, so it wasn't exactly a completely uneducated vote.
Plus, I don't really even 'live' in this city, aside from going to school here...

The only thing I didn't mark my ballot for was people who were running unopposed. I figure why give them a free vote? I probably could have just voted straight Democrat, but I wanted to mark up the ballot, you know? It seemed like a waste of paper otherwise...plus, I was in line for like twenty minutes!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 17:30
Jeans, The PQ4 is using considerably more thought and insight than many voters use in the ballot box. There is nothing that recommends against personal experience and instinct in voting.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 17:40
But if I only know one, doesn't that kind of say that the other candidate didn't do a whole heck of a lot to get my vote?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 17:43
Precisely. In American politics, if I want your vote, I have to work for it. I once voted for a senatorial candidate because he was the only person who put workers out at the polling place. If a person is unwilling to work for my vote, he or she is unwilling to work.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 17:59
You want me to talk about how nice things would be if they were perfect, Jeans? Do you?

I thought the discussion was reality-based. My mistake.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 18:02
So, in your mind, there really isn't any difference between someone like ThePQ4 saying, "I have personal experience with this person, and none with the other person, so the one I know better gets the vote," and the voter who says, "OOOH, I LIEK HIM HE GOTS NICE HAIR."

Honestly?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 18:15
Not voting surrenders any voice at all in who runs our government. A bad choice is still a choice, and it is much, much more than many people have.

With apologies for religious content, I offer an excerpt from my sermon this past Sunday (please ignore paragraph breaks and odd punctuation as I use these for reading cues):

Quote
This coming Tuesday, we Americans get to do something that is staggering: we get to vote. The amazing thing is that we get to vote for who we want to vote for based on our own moral, economic, or ideological reasons. We don’t vote based on who we are told to vote for by a political leader, pundit, union boss or employer, family member, or God forbid from the pulpit. It is no one’s business who we vote for, or even if we vote. This is an unprecedented amount of freedom, an unparalleled voice in how our world is ordered. It is the singular freedom that Hu Jia hoped for, and is jailed for.

These freedoms we enjoy aren’t limited to the ballot box, though. As American Christians, we have a unique opportunity to, in the words of the Quakers, “speak the truth to power.” Is it possible that one of the ways we show our love for God and neighbor is by doing just that?

Today’s readings from the Gospel and Psalms are all about power. Power, it seems, is a powerful sedative. No matter what reasons a person has for seeking it, once there, the titles and the “perks” take over. Perhaps that’s why Jesus is so adamant about not accepting titles, but I think it goes deeper even than that. With a title comes an attitude, not just in the person with the title, but more especially in others. The loftier the position, the more gatekeepers and bodyguards and secretaries and “handlers” one has to go through to reach the person, the more likely we are to be mastered by that position. “I can’t talk to her, she’s the (fill in the blank). Oh, he won’t care what I have to say, he’s the (fill in the blank) and I’m just a regular person.”

What Jesus is saying is that we cannot let titles and positions become a litmus test for the worth of another human being – and especially in our American context, because governmental leaders are in positions of power specifically because we the people put them there. Thus we say, “I don’t really care if you are on the council or the mayor or the governor or the President, you’re there because I say so, and you’ll leave if I say so, so listen.”
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ozymandias on 04 Nov 2008, 18:23
You have a two boxes. One contains a machine that will cut off your testicles. You don't know anything about what's inside the other box.

WHAT DO YOU DO.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 18:25
Ice cream doesn't have bones, though.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: CarrionMan on 04 Nov 2008, 18:28
I research the other box. I prefer my ability to procreate.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ThePQ4 on 04 Nov 2008, 18:36
I don't have testicles, so I'm not too concerned. And honestly, even if I did...I don't want to make babies, so I don't think they'd be much of a loss...

I think I have a fair reason for calling people stupid. I mean, why vote JUST for something in which your -1- vote doesn't mean a whole lot? I mean, your pick might win a Popular vote, but that means nothing against the electoral college. I know that, but a lot of people don't seem too. I am also bothered by the fact that they would announce this aloud to poll workers. If that's what you're going to do, fine, but you don't need to tell everyone that. I should be very obvious that if you're not comfortable voting for someone, then just don't mark it. What are they going to do to you? And it would be pretty unfair if it voided your ballot.

In a local/state election, I know my vote will actually account for someone, and I voted the incumbent, whom I've had no problem with the way she's running things as it goes.

Lets not turn this into an internet argument...I'm not going to say anything else on the matter, but if someone else wants to continue to duke out about it, they are welcome to, but I am done.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 04 Nov 2008, 18:53
This is North Dakota's ballot. http://www.nd.gov/sos/sampleballot/9-4401.01-sb.pdf

doodily
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: bainidhe_dub on 04 Nov 2008, 19:16
I voted this afternoon, sticker and all! We left work early, because the boy and I are still registered at our parents' addresses so we had to do some driving around. A lady working at the polling station turned to me right after I got my paper and card, and said "Is this your first time voting?!?!" which is wasn't. I think she might have thought I was my little sister.
I know we're trying not to talk about what we voted, but there seems to be a bit of a conversation about this one - I live in Maryland too, and I voted 'yes' for Question 2, mostly for selfish reasons: if it passes, our company will probably get some big-money contracts as a direct result (we'll be pointing lights at them).
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: jhocking on 04 Nov 2008, 19:22
I did my civic duty by researching EVERY SINGLE position before I voted. (Mostly by seeing who was endorsed by the Chicago papers and seeing who I disagreed with.) I didn't get a sticker; I got a little piece of paper that says "Chicago Board of Election Commissioners BALLOT RECEIPT NOVEMBER 4, 2008 GENERAL ELECTION  THANK YOU FOR VOTING!"

Woo, voting!

Me, I knew nothing about the vast majority of the people on the ballot, so I only voted for the couple people I actually knew I supported (basically President and Senators) and left the rest blank.

Voting was incredibly convenient for me, because my polling place is literally across the street, and I don't work during the day on Tuesdays.  My fiancee was really concerned that there would be a long wait, but when I strolled in it was just me and like 30 volunteers working at the polling place.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ladybug on 04 Nov 2008, 19:48
Agreed. It's almost 5AM, and it feels great to finally to go sleep knowing that I'll most likely wake up to even better results than we're seeing now.

I wanted to stay up to watch them both speak, but bah, it's taking long. Might wait a while more.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 19:50
Okay, so, C.N.N. just had an interview with Will.I.Am. "via hologram".

I've also been reading the Onion's coverage online. I had to do a double-take when I looked up at the T.V. screen.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: RedLion on 04 Nov 2008, 19:54
How the hell do they do that hologram stuff? It's mind blowing! It's actually really, really cool.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 19:55
Hologram technology has come a long way since Star Wars, that's for sure.

But then, that was A Long Time Ago.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: JD on 04 Nov 2008, 19:57
(http://www.halolz.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/obama-flag.jpg)

It's not actually a hologram guys!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 04 Nov 2008, 20:07
FUCK FUCKING YES FUCK MY NEUTRAL THREAD STATUS WOOOOO!!!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Dazed on 04 Nov 2008, 20:12
VICTORYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY  :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Christophe on 04 Nov 2008, 20:14
Gee, that was quick.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tania on 04 Nov 2008, 20:19
thanks for voting, americans!
you have all played very small but nonetheless important roles in making this happen. thank you for helping the right person win.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: redglasscurls on 04 Nov 2008, 20:20
Aww hell yeah. I had no idea how exciting it would be to actually be finally able to participate in choosing:D
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: bainidhe_dub on 04 Nov 2008, 20:21
i'm kinda shocked it was over before bedtime (11pm EST). in the back of my mind, i was expecting another drawn-out bunch of fraud and conflict and investigations and shit..
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ladybug on 04 Nov 2008, 20:22
"A little while ago, I had the honor of calling Senator Barack Obama to congratulate him on being elected the next president of the country that we both love." (probably not verbatim, but whatever)

\o/
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 20:31
Well done, guys.

During the last decade I've often despaired at what seemed to be the increasingly reactionary and conservative direction the world seemed to be heading in. Election results here in Australia last year, and now over there in the U.S. today, have made me so happy and relieved. Now that I'm older I realise that politics works in cycles - the good times don't last forever, but always remember that the bad, dark days will always come to an end, too.

Welcome back into the world, America, not as a bully but as a friend. Now let's start the rebuilding.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 04 Nov 2008, 20:35
The process works. Hair, warts and all, it works.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 04 Nov 2008, 20:42
Yay America! We are pretty alright at things I guess!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Emaline on 04 Nov 2008, 21:48
I fucking got up hellsa early this morning, got dress, drank a glass of orange juice, and at 6:31 am, I walked out my front door. By 6:40, I was at the library and filling out my ballot. I fucking voted, and my candidate got elected! I am so super happy, I can even put it into words. I want to call all my friends and basically just say "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK YEAH OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"


My bestest friend ever was in Grant Park tonight. He got to see our new president speak. I am 10 different kinds of jealous. God this is so exciting!!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 04 Nov 2008, 21:50
So now can we get rid of all these McCain avatars?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: RedLion on 04 Nov 2008, 21:54
We finally got it right.

He's won, definitively, and it could yet be a "blowout," if he does what it looks like he will do and ekes out a victory in Indiana and North Carolina. It's tied in Missouri.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: mberan42 on 04 Nov 2008, 22:25
Huh. This is the first presidential nominee I've voted for that's actually won. Well done indeed.

I am emotional, ecstatic and relieved. This was one wild ride, and I don't even live in a state that "matters".

Only thing left is that Prop 8 has to get voted down. Not looking good so far, though...
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Nov 2008, 22:48
Truly, this is a great day for mankind.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: billiumbean on 04 Nov 2008, 23:09
I'm seventeen, but I'm glad he won, even if I had no part in it.

And I'm glad my state (Hawaii) is a blue state, man.  It's just a great feeling walking down the street knowing that most people have the same political views as me.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Catfish_Man on 04 Nov 2008, 23:20
Hurghg. Merkley v Smith (Oregon senate race) is absurdly close, and I fucking can't stand Smith.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: thelightguy on 04 Nov 2008, 23:35
Remember , remember the 5th of November.

I guess this makes the republican party Guy Fawkes and company, then.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 04 Nov 2008, 23:49
Kind of hard to blow up the Senate when it's a hologram on CNN.

YEAH.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 05 Nov 2008, 00:09
Quote
If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled — Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of red states and blue states; we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Sen. McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he's fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Gov. Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation's promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the vice-president-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last 16 years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation's next first lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House. And while she's no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager, David Plouffe; my chief strategist, David Axelrod; and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics — you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you've sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to — it belongs to you.

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn't start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington — it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give $5 and $10 and $20 to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation's apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn't do this just to win an election, and I know you didn't do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime — two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they'll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor's bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year, or even one term, but America — I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you: We as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as president, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And, above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it's been done in America for 221 years — block by block, brick by brick, callused hand by callused hand.

What began 21 months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek — it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it's that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers. In this country, we rise or fall as one nation — as one people.

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House — a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress.

As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, "We are not enemies, but friends... Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection." And, to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn, I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president, too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world — our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down: We will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security: We support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright: Tonight, we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope.

For that is the true genius of America — that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that's on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election, except for one thing: Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons — because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America — the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes, we can.

At a time when women's voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes, we can.

When there was despair in the Dust Bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes, we can.

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes, we can.

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that "We Shall Overcome." Yes, we can.

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes, we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves: If our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time — to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can.

Thank you, God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 05 Nov 2008, 01:00
I really, really liked that speech. He had a fire in him, a passion, and the puppy line was hilarious. But when he started about Things That Are Kind of Bad that This Lady Went Through, I started inadvertently humming We Didn't Start the Fire. I totally related too, since according to my state issued ID, I am 107, which is older than her.

It really bothered me that during McCain's speech (which I also thought was pretty good two, and I only noticed two "my friends"s) the people kept booing really loudly when he'd mention Obama or Biden. That didn't happen during Obama's speech, but then again it's a lot easier to be gracious when you win.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: David_Dovey on 05 Nov 2008, 01:11
I wish I could've seen the live broadcast of that speech. I got chills up my spine just reading it on the computer screen.

I posted this in the other thread, but I want people to see it, so repost for great justice:

Dear America,

Thank you, thank you so much. From the very bottom of my heart, thank you.

Yours sincerely,

David A. Dovey.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 05 Nov 2008, 01:21
It was one of the most difficult things I've ever done, sitting in my little office while in the next room miners bitched about the white house becoming the black house, etc., watching that speech and holding back tears.

I have to say that, if Obama does nothing else in the next four years, bringing back visioncasting to the Presidency will be worth every moment.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 05 Nov 2008, 01:28
Dovey I did not get to watch it live either, but I did listen to it.

Also it is up on youtube already, or at least parts. Here is the first bit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dkUsojBhTc Hopefully they will have the rest up soon.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: David_Dovey on 05 Nov 2008, 01:29
Yessss, that wasn't there an hour ago (i think)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tragic_pizza on 05 Nov 2008, 02:01
The whole thing is up, in three sections.

And, again, wow.

It is within my lifetime, and in the city I call home, that firehoses, dogs, clubs, and dynamite were used against African Americans.

I'm still trying to wrap my head around it all, and failing miserably.

How far we've come.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 05 Nov 2008, 03:08
For anyone who still hasn't seen it, the Guardian (along with presumably most other news outlets) has the video of the full speech here:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2008/nov/05/uselections2008-barackobama (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2008/nov/05/uselections2008-barackobama)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: öde on 05 Nov 2008, 04:26
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ampersandwitch on 05 Nov 2008, 04:43
Nothing like an historic president to make a bunch of schoolgirls naked and excited!

I'm pretty pumped!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: valley_parade on 05 Nov 2008, 04:55
Wait, what?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Inlander on 05 Nov 2008, 05:10
HEY AMERICA!

(http://i435.photobucket.com/albums/qq71/HDS_Overflow/DSCF1392.jpg)

CHEERS!!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 05 Nov 2008, 06:07
Oh I will definitely drink to that
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: axerton on 05 Nov 2008, 06:09
I just watched Obama's acceptance speech. It was a truly great speech, when he was talking about the woman who was voting at 106, and asking what his daughters might see if they lived to be that age, I'll be darned if it didn't strip away every bit of cynicism I have, and leave me actually looking forward to seeing what the future holds. Also when the crowd spontaneously started chanting "Yes we can!" a shiver ran down my spine. But I think my favorite moment was "This victory alone was not the change we seek - it is only the opportunity to make that change"

I tell a lie, what I was most impressed with was something he didn't say. Not once in those 15 minutes did he mention 9/11 and for that reason, as well as many others I applaud the President elect, and look forward eagerly to what he will do once in office. In my mind the 19th of January can not come soon enough.

Hey, there's a point, has Bush made an official statement yet, not that I expect it to be anything other than the usual generic congratulations bullshit.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Peet on 05 Nov 2008, 06:23
You guys are just so gosh darn enthusiastic about politics. In a couple of years (?) when the British elections happen we will all just be like "yea cool Gordon won well done Gordon don't fuck up too bad huh?".
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Barmymoo on 05 Nov 2008, 06:26
Peet I am also British and by God if I didn't stay up all night to watch the election it wasn't for want of trying. I have never been so super anxious about the opinions of people four thousand miles away.

Thank you all you American people, you have made the world a better place by proving that there is still a point in elections. Man they were big queues.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: tania on 05 Nov 2008, 06:48
yeah i did the same thing with my housemates, we stayed up until almost 1am watching the election then sort of turned to each other and went "man, it's too bad canadians don't get this enthusiastic about their own elections huh?" we had one of the lowest voter turnouts ever in october and nobody really cared or was surprised that harper won again cos it's not like there were any better options.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Seductivpancakes on 05 Nov 2008, 06:52
Yay for America. I'm going to the bar tonight.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 05 Nov 2008, 07:28
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!

This.

Also, the bar I went to screamed when he won. It was deafening. Too bad the people I went with were rather apathetic about this election. (I was the only one who actually liked one of the candidates. At least they voted the same way as me...)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: RedLion on 05 Nov 2008, 09:51
My campus was full of people running around shouting and screaming...people were chanting "Obama" and, believe it or not, "U.S.A." Probably the first time I've seen any of these people, who are all extremely jaded and cynical and critical of America, showing some kind of pride in their country. And the same goes for me, frankly. A large group of people started spontaneously saying the Pledge of Allegiance.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: supersheep on 05 Nov 2008, 10:03
I have been singing the two or three lines of America the Beautiful I actually know to myself all day. Who knows why.

Dear America,

Good job.

Love Odi
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 05 Nov 2008, 10:07
My campus was full of people running around shouting and screaming...people were chanting "Obama" and, believe it or not, "U.S.A." Probably the first time I've seen any of these people, who are all extremely jaded and cynical and critical of America, showing some kind of pride in their country. And the same goes for me, frankly. A large group of people started spontaneously saying the Pledge of Allegiance.

Oh man I wish I did not go to a conservative school
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: valley_parade on 05 Nov 2008, 10:12
I have been singing the two or three lines of America the Beautiful I actually know to myself all day. Who knows why.

Dear America,

Good job.

Love Odi

Man, get your own shining seas.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 05 Nov 2008, 10:16
Oh beautiful for spacious skies
For amber waves of grain
For purple mountains' majesty
Above the fruited plain

America, America
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea

etc etc three more verses

Also I had to listen to two girls complaining about Obama being elected. But both admitted that, in the event of the president somehow dying, they would rather have Biden in office than Palin, which I found quite interesting.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 05 Nov 2008, 10:29
I sat next to a table of three girls at the bar/pub last night and one of them kept insisting Obama wouldn't win because the Steelers won their last game.

I resisted the urge to throw dirty plates at her.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KvP on 05 Nov 2008, 10:40
HEY AMERICA!
*pic*
CHEERS!!
(http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v374/238/113/589819387/n589819387_1653173_3823.jpg)
*hic*

So where was you when you heard the news? This is one of those history dealies, so remember.

I was in class, with maybe 8 other people. I was mistaken in my assumption that homework would be due, so I showed up when I probably shouldn't have. But I had my lappy, and I watched as Pennsylvania and Ohio came in for Obama, and it was then that we knew. It didn't really sink in until the next morning. I really wish I had been somewhere where people were celebrating...

President Obama. It's going to take some getting used to, hearing that.

Anyway
(http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=34479021394&h=GO4Mi)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: canachdei on 05 Nov 2008, 10:52
I have lived in Indiana my entire life. I watched to KKK make it into the papers twice in my lifetime (awful short since I'm only 18). I have been cynical about my nation, the kind of people it's filled with, its leaders and its government. I really believed we were going to be "Jesusland" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesusland_map (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesusland_map)) in just a few short years.

The first time I voted in my entire life and my candidate won?! All the people my age who'd been so discouraged by the Bush administration, and by the kinds of places they grew up in, were inspired to vote for a real leader, not just a politician. We've shown that when it comes down to it, not everyone is ignorant and narrow-minded. In fact, a majority of our nation happens to be intelligent people with dissenting opinions.

I am so excited to see Indiana blue in my lifetime. I just hope that we really can turn this nation around. I just hope that the SS do a damn good job.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: canachdei on 05 Nov 2008, 11:02
So where was you when you heard the news? This is one of those history dealies, so remember.

I was in class, with maybe 8 other people. I was mistaken in my assumption that homework would be due, so I showed up when I probably shouldn't have. But I had my lappy, and I watched as Pennsylvania and Ohio came in for Obama, and it was then that we knew. It didn't really sink in until the next morning. I really wish I had been somewhere where people were celebrating...

President Obama. It's going to take some getting used to, hearing that.

I was in my apartment glued to my cell phone, lap top and TV with my roommates and friends. We started drinking at first as a way of saying "Well, shit. This is going to be the most depressing night of our lives". I learned how to drink an Irish car bomb. We were eating doughnuts. Then *wham*. Obama was elected President?! We were all stunned for a moment. Then we screamed and cheered and cried. I'll never forget going out to our balcony with a bottle of Jack's and pouring victory shots. We screamed and whistled. People screamed back. We could see the lights were on in every apartment, every building. We could even see people's TVs. It was all the same. Everyone was celebrating. There was a victory march down Kirkwood. People were just so stunned and elated. I will never forget how the entire city felt.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 05 Nov 2008, 11:15
"where were you?"


i, like many others, was sitting in my basement with a friend and an open bottle of whiskey waiting for the announcement.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: imapiratearg on 05 Nov 2008, 11:20
I was eating cake and ice cream with my family.  It was my brother's birthday last night, too.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: valley_parade on 05 Nov 2008, 11:21
I was watching Current's election coverage/musicamabob and I might've been texting Linds at the time.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 05 Nov 2008, 11:27
I was at a Girl Talk show. On stage. The election coverage was on a screen behind the crowd.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 05 Nov 2008, 11:31
okay you win


jeez
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Lines on 05 Nov 2008, 11:52
I'd just gotten home from the sports bar I mentioned earlier. I'd left the TV on and heard it as I was walking in the house.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: 0bsessions on 05 Nov 2008, 12:06
I was in my bedroom, sitting at my computer watching coverage with my roommate, who had just gotten home from work. We were switching around between CNN, ABC, NBC, Fox News (We figured any close states called blue by Fox were in the clear) and Comedy Central.

I watched Jon Stewart call it at eleven PM, which was strangely pleasing to me senses.

The look of Stephen Colbert was priceless. He simply couldn't stay in character anymore. It was a beautiful moment.

This thread's also made me realize: for the first time in a couple of decades, I will actually want to involve myself in the National Anthem at a baseball game.

The first time I voted in my entire life and my candidate won?![/i][/u].

I relate this far too much to being a Red Sox fan. There are so many fans these days who are not old enough to remember the gut punches of years past before the Sox started actually winning.

I didn't even consider that. Everyone I know remembers 2004 and watching Bush win after voting blue vividly. We remember the bitter "what the fuck" of feeling like your vote and effort did not amount to shit. I almost resent those of you who get to feel like you've made a difference from the get-go.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Dimmukane on 05 Nov 2008, 12:07
I was very inadequately trying to get homework done.  I kept refreshing CNN on my computer until I heard good news.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Liz on 05 Nov 2008, 12:18
Dimmukane those are more or less the exact words I was going to type. The only thing I have to add is that I was in Gabbly asking them when the speeches started so I knew when to turn on my nearly dead radio.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: De_El on 05 Nov 2008, 12:34
A mass of people just crowded outside the dorms and yelled and chanted and shared hugs and everyone was so excited. Everyone was so happy it was seemed like no one knew what to do. We paraded a cardboard cut-out of Obama for a while, and then it seemed everyone agreed that getting a bit drunk to celebrate was a good idea. And then there was an impromptu dance party which was massive and super crowded and lasted until security came and broke it up. It was beautiful.

I mean, shit. This is something people will remember.

Although I am pissed that California passed prop 8, as well as similar legislation being passed in Florida and Arizona. And that Alaska re-elected fucking Ted Stevens. And geez, Michelle Bachmann, what the heck Minnesota.

But at least Michigan legalized medicinal marijuana. And Washington passed the initiative about physician-assisted suicide. 
Plus the whole Obama thing. That's pretty cool. I think...we may be on the upswing, at last.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 05 Nov 2008, 13:11
I was on my couch alone all night watching every minute of CNN but it was fucking grand. Then I stayed up past 3 AM celebrating in Gabbly.

Fuck I just realized I could've been at that Girl Talk show though, if you mean the one in New York.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: ruyi on 05 Nov 2008, 14:48
Man, I really wish I could've voted. Still, last night I just couldn't stop smiling as I walked through the Berkeley campus. It was a neat feeling. Neat, but bittersweet due to the props in CA.

So did anyone think President Bush's comments were kind of douchey? "Congratulations and go enjoy yourself (http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/nov/05/uselections2008-barackobama5)." I mean in context it's generic congratulatory stuff but seriously, put 'go enjoy yourself' in the context of the mess Bush is leaving Obama.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ozymandias on 05 Nov 2008, 15:03
I have been singing the two or three lines of America the Beautiful I actually know to myself all day. Who knows why.

Dear America,

Good job.

Love Odi

I've been singing My Country 'tis of Thee all day.

I don't care if it's another country's national anthem in disguise, it's apt.

Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 05 Nov 2008, 15:05
Haha, I hadn't heard of that till now. I only read about Bush promising Obama "complete cooperation" leading up to his inauguration.

If you read the rest of the comment, it's on par with the rest of Bush's public speeches- just above 2nd grade level. So I think it's less Bush being surprisingly witty (in a fucked up way) and more Bush having no clue how to string together a sentence without the phrases "What an awesome night for you" and "Congratulations and go enjoy yourself.''
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Superkid11 on 05 Nov 2008, 20:47
Rofl, the Mccain supporters on Yahoo Answers are going apeshit.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 06 Nov 2008, 10:23
you should hear the ones on xbox live
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Catfish_Man on 06 Nov 2008, 10:28
Merkley won too. Yes!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KvP on 06 Nov 2008, 13:59
you should hear the ones on xbox live
A few nights ago I was hanging out with my friend whose runs a store cart downtown, and there was this bro and his girlfriend who walked by. My friend needs business, so he asked the bro if he wanted anything. Bro says "who did you vote for?". Friend says "Obama". Bro says "fag" and spits.

If there's any justice, that guy is crying in his chapter house right now.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: JD on 06 Nov 2008, 14:01
Dole isn't in the senate anymore! Wooo! (Elizabeth Dole, not Bob Dole)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: David_Dovey on 06 Nov 2008, 20:07
Yeah I was glad when I saw that, although I'm really not a big fan of the way Hagan recoiled at the sheer horror of being labeled an atheist.

Quote from: Lame W. Duck
"Go enjoy yourself"

I just assumed "enjoy" was his repressed evangelical way of saying "fuck" without cussin'
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Storm Rider on 16 Nov 2008, 16:41
For the record, it looks like Stevens may not have won after all. There's still about 25,000 ballouts left to count but Begich has pulled ahead and most of the ballots left to count are coming from Anchorage, where he was mayor prior to running for Senate.

And Minnesota is so close that who knows how the fuck that will turn out after the recount starts on Monday.

Mostly, I'm pissed at Indiana. It was the only state I got wrong on my prediction, unless you count the one electoral vote in Nebraska that might also go to Obama. And Prop 8, of course, but that'll get repealed. If not in 2012, before too much longer.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KvP on 16 Nov 2008, 16:43
I think I misread Florida, on account of all the old people (I figured they'd flock together, but I guess in retrospect short of an AARP endorsement age isn't a terribly huge factor) but otherwise I was pretty damn close.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Storm Rider on 16 Nov 2008, 17:47
Even if you consider old people to be a solid voting bloc, why would you automatically consider them to be Republican? I mean, who would you expect AARP to back considering the candidates' positions on medicare and Social Security?
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: David_Dovey on 16 Nov 2008, 23:35
Because old people hate queers and darkies
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: pwhodges on 17 Nov 2008, 03:39
I guess I'm not old, then; that's a relief!
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: RedLion on 17 Nov 2008, 10:45

Mostly, I'm pissed at Indiana.

I was thrilled about Indiana. And Virginia. And North Carolina.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KvP on 17 Nov 2008, 14:35
Even if you consider old people to be a solid voting bloc, why would you automatically consider them to be Republican? I mean, who would you expect AARP to back considering the candidates' positions on medicare and Social Security?
McCain = old. Old people identify with old people!

Mostly, though, it was looking at the trends in Pollster. I figured that if things continued the way they had it could be a contested state, but I was wrong.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Katherine on 17 Nov 2008, 14:42
My dad is old.  He'll be 77 in a few months.  He is also slightly homophobic and racist.  He told me that it was too bad that the silver spoon that McCain was born with didn't turn sideways and choke the bastard and he voted for Obama.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Ballard on 18 Nov 2008, 20:59
High five for your dad!

o/
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 18 Nov 2008, 21:04
In other news, congratulations to Alaska for not voting a convicted felon into the Senate.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: celticgeek on 18 Nov 2008, 21:16
In 2000, the citizens of Missouri elected a dead man to the senate, preferring him over Republican John Ashcroft, and with good reason, in my opinion.

Missouri Elects Dead Man To Senate (http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/missouri-elects-dead-man-as-senator-623222.html)
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: Dazed on 18 Nov 2008, 21:28
Ah yes, then John Ashcroft rebounded from losing an election to a dead man by becoming the UNITED STATES ATTORNEY GENERAL. How the fuck did that happen.
Title: Re: Vote, VOTE, VOOOOOOOTE!!!!
Post by: celticgeek on 19 Nov 2008, 07:52
W.