I thought maybe it was just an odd conversation with a random friend. He said that the political news is so bad that he can’t stand to listen. I suggested that we all need to do what we can to prevent the Convicted Felon from being elected.
He said, “I prefer just watching the birds.”
I said, “I doubt the environment survives if the Convicted Felon gets elected.”
“Do you think it will affect us personally?”
“I absolutely do,” I said. “The Trump campaign website says he will expedite federal drilling permits, speed up approvals for fracked gas pipelines, and open up “vast stores” of oil and gas for extraction. It’ll be Game Over for climate progress.”
That seemed to disturb my friend. It was surprising because he’s a smart, caring guy. But he just doesn’t seem to be paying attention.
I didn’t consider the conversation to be any more than a one-off until I saw this article: “Six in ten American adults say they are worn out by coverage of the campaign and candidates.” Then I saw this one: Poll: Election interest hits new low in tight Biden-Trump race.
This apathy seems to be a potential explanation for Biden’s weak poll numbers vs. the Convicted Felon. People don’t believe that their personal lives will be dramatically affected if Trump wins.
Reporting this on DK is preaching to the choir, I realize. I’m hoping that people here will have suggestions for getting this message out to the apathetic masses in a way that will connect emotionally.