I’ve been an Obama fan ever since he spoke at the 2004 DNC, and I’ve been a supporter since he announced his candidacy for President of the United States. The only blip was Bill Richardson’s short candidacy–and darn it, I was really hoping for an Obama-Richardson ticket! But despite those years of fandom and support (both philosophical and financial), I voted third party this year.
It was a hard decision, and even as I cast my ballot, I felt a little guilty for not voting with my conscience. This year, logic ruled my voting decision. You see, I live in Texas, a winner-takes-all state in the Electoral College. And, of course, a state that is so red there’s no hint of blue in the final tally, except in a few small pockets of urban diversity.
More than anything else, Obama has made me believe that change is possible and hope is not foolish. One of the things I fervently wish for the US is a shake-up in our party system. Both of our major parties have been failing us for years. They are so caught up in politics-as-usual and petty arguments that very little of true importance is accomplished. The final outcome of the presidential decision isn’t based on a flat general vote, and my vote for Obama here in Texas isn’t going to change the outcome of our state’s electoral vote. But I realized that my vote for the third-party candidate could potentially help pave the way for a viable third-party candidacy in the future. My individual vote does help the third party because they need 5% of the national popular vote in order to receive federal campaign funding and participation in debates.
For what it’s worth, I truly, deeply hope that Obama wins this election. If I lived somewhere like New Mexico, Virginia, or MIssouri, where the outcome is close and unknown, I would unreservedly vote for Obama. But voting third-party this year is the way I can influence change and hope for a better future.
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