The Youth Vote

[msgadget]

In two years we'll need our youth to turn out in force again. How can we keep voting in their minds between now and then?

[qanda]

1. I worked the polls here in Maryland on Nov. 2

And I was absolutely shocked at how many young black males were coming in registered as Republicans. I didn't keep count, but it was about 12 or so black men and I only had about 3 black women. Of course, the overwhelming majority were registered as Democrats or Independents, but what is up with that?

[msgadget]

2. Both sides

were workin' it, which is a good thing. The Republicans ran a targeted campaign across the US, very consistent throughout and they started laying the groundwork long before the election. Gotta give credit where it's due because they are marketing wizards. I remember CORE and other grassroots movements that kept the urgency alive but times were a little different then.

[Tomee450]

4. That is rather surprising.

Most of the young voters I know are Democrats. I have noticed though, that a few young black callers to CPAN have identified themselves as Republicans. I don't understand the attraction.

[msgadget]

5. I believe that's referred to as the

'who's your daddy' element. :D No, seriously, all that tough love about responsibility, helping business help America succeed, being influenced by those wanton liberals who just want your tax money to give to lazy people, etc. can be appealing.

I suspect many who are unhappy with the 'coarseness of society' Rove says the president can legislate out of existence think they have more in common with conservatives than liberals. I disagree. :hippie:

Edit: I needed another smiley

[AP]

3. I think 2000 and 2004 have turned a lot of occassional voters into regular

voters. Just getting people to vote this year makes it more likely they'll show up again.

Nonetheless, if you want to get out the vote, you should remember to canvass and phone bank next election.