November 1 2000 -- Fort Lauderdale, FL: Sure, I hear the hue and cry of Al Gore supporters, saying my man Nader should drop out of the election, and I should vote for Gore regardless. Well! I for one am glad that Ralph is staying in it, and what's more I am going to vote for him! I will be happy to tell you why, if you follow me over the steep, precipitous jump...
It is a matter of principle, you see. We all know that Nader will fight harder against the special interests in Washington than either Gore or Bush would if he's elected. Sure, it looks extremely unlikely that Nader stands any chance to be elected given how things have gone, but that's not my point! My point is, Nader has been my first choice all along, because he will shake up Washington--and I like my capitols shaken, not stirred.
Besides, it's not like Nader or those who vote for him are likely to change the outcome of the election either way. And regardless, we all know there's not that much difference between Gore and Bush--so if my man Ralph isn't elected and somehow we do spoil things for Gore, what of it? OK, I admit that I'm not entirely with Nader on this one, I do prefer Al a wee tad over George - but seriously, how bad could a Bush presidency be?
I know what you're thinking, Mr. and Ms. Smarty Pants--but noooooo I'm not just rationalizing my obstinacy based on a deep emotional investment in my candidate. As I said before... this is a matter of principle...