The wild political season of 2008 is nearing and no matter which side of the political aisle you reside on it is both exciting and nerve wracking. The race for the oval office has been followed by more Americans than ever before (based on debate viewership and polling data), and the stakes are bigger than any time in a generation. We all know it is healthy and democratic to back your candidate, argue and support their policies, and ultimately respect the electorate and get behind the winner, but once again there is real fear that strident supporters will do whatever it takes to guarantee their party wins. Vote fraud and manipulation is a real possibility no matter how lopsided the election may be.
Unlike 2000, and even 2004, American’s deserve an untainted result in 2008. CBS news, Fox News, CNN, Time and other respected media outlets are documenting the concern of a majority of Americans that voter fraud and manipulation could impact the results of the key elections next week. CBS news investigated the early voting sites and featured it on their pre 60 minutes Sunday news: (http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=4546479n). Time magazine covered the issue in this week’s magazine: http://www.time.com/… new article. NPR’s Fresh Air also covered the issue on Monday’s show. Clearly the possibility for fraud exists.
After the back and forth of 2000 I was as disillusioned with our political process as I’ve ever been. I had no way of personally impacting the outcome of that election or contributing to a fair and free election in the future. I was encouraged to see the Vigil for Civility campaign because it shows we can all have an impact in our own way. I don’t expect to fly to key states and monitor polling places but I know that I can impact the mind set of acceptance that has once again permeated our fellow citizens. I am making a commitment to participate in the Vigil for Civility in the hope that we can once again trust our system to work effectively so we all have one vote and one voice.
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