For these people, it's become a game. Living in Baton Rouge, LA, there are alot of people who are rabid LSU Fans. They spend their life supporting that football team. They apologize for it when it loses, scream angrly when it loses too often, and go nutz when it wins. But no matter what, they always buy tickets or watch the games. They're fans. It's a culture of 'support'
Polarized Politics in America today has become a Bloodsport of sorts propigated by the Media, and it's intent on always being "balanced" meaning basically, No Democrat can get a word in edge wise without a Republican Blowhard shooting off a rebutal. Meanwhile, 20 Million Americans listen to the daily diatribe of the Talk Radio, which is total propaganda and garbage. Then at night, they tune into Fox News and watch some more. It's all spoonfed. Like watching a constant reel of highlights from LSU games, they are addicted to rooting for their side. When they score a point, they cheer, when they lose a point, the moan and bitch.
At no point is intelligent political discourse had by these people because their core values are never exposed. Many are likely racist, or at least anti-federalism. Many are anti-government, and intensely religious, though thoroughly unchristian in the traditional sence of Loving Thy Neighbor. Most are Simply Scared though. Listen to Michael Savage if you get the chance. He instills fear in his listeners. I listen at night on my way to the gym. It's hillarious. No One On radio lies more than Michael Savage, and his Millions of Listeners are so scared, they go to him for their next dose of fear. They've lost hope, believe everything is out to get them, and tune in for relief, cause someone 'understands' them...
So, these cheering fools sink with the ship. Not to say there aren't Dems out there who are the same. When was the last time you found yourself agreeing with Tom Delay? Yeah, thought so.
So in the end, again, it's all in the middle. Which is exactly where the campaigns are playing. This whole fiasco about 9/11 and stuff is meaningless. It won't change a single mind of the 38%. They're too busy rooting to pay attention to substance. And if they begin to doubt, habit will lead them to the reasuring propaganda of Rush Limbaugh.
In the end, this is all sad because I wonder if it's not the end of Democracy. As each side entrenches more, we slide one step closer to eventual collapse and possible civil strife over issues we used to seek agreement on. Polarizing is destructive, and sad.
So that's why I thank god for the Center. The Independents who are paying attention to ALL OF THIS. Who aren't too worried about Kerry right now, but are forming judgements on Bush. Kerry will have his opportunity to move towards these in the Center, and if his GOTV is successful, he'll win.
That's why Bush is trying to scare the pants off the center in the 17 states right now, going right to their core over taxes and the like. The Center isn't too stupid I hope. You can't win by vilifying the other guy. Everyone complains the Democrats are too Anybody But Bush.
I complain the Republicans are too No One But Bush.
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