Popularity Contest vs. Election Process

Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on June 2, 2008 Biblical Values •

In high school, I remember running for the position of Vice President in the Student Council. Back then, it was a big deal to go all out when campaigning. I remember hanging posters, handing out flyers, and coming up with catchy slogans to get the attention of the student body.

But what I remember most is thinking, “I have to gain the approval of my classmates, so I need to make sure I’m putting on the right face and attitude in front of each person until Election Day.”

It’s true. Our election was a popularity contest. If people liked me, then they would vote for me. It didn’t matter what I promised or didn’t promise to do for them the next school year. It didn’t matter if I didn’t regularly hang out with all the various demographics populated around campus. All that mattered was that if they knew and liked “Kaylan” more than the other person I was up against, then I’d get their votes and win the election.

Luckily, my opponent dropped out of the race at the last minute, so being the only person on the ballot, I was a shoe-in.

Remembering how seemingly intense I thought the school elections were back then made me think of how insignificant and petty that particular process really was. Ultimately, my position as Vice President turned out to be a glorified “party planner” for school events. But I think it’s safe to say that this could be loosely compared and discussed next to today’s elections.

Many times, it seems that today’s election process is also nothing more than a popularity contest. This thought, in itself, should cause us to consider whether or not we’re voting on the person because he or she is likable or on the values, morals, and standards he or she believes in and endorses.

Each time you vote, throw out the popularity factor and focus on the integrity, character, and beliefs of the candidate. Do these things match up with godliness? Does the candidate uphold biblical principles in line with God’s Word? Or are you voting on him or her simply because he has a great smile and a way with the people?

Next entry: Politics a useful tool? Previous entry: Christians in Politics: Too much or too little?

Comments

You’re right, voters should through out the popularity factor. But thats not the case mostly.

Posted by Toronto Lofts on June 14, 2008.

I’m really depressed that Ron Paul didn’t make it. Honestly, I don’t care who makes it between McCain and Obama, it’s all the same BS imo.

Posted by Kara on August 5, 2008.

Great article..You drew a lot of insight!

Posted by PHP Programming on August 5, 2008.

choosing between McCain and Obama, I would probably go for Obama. lesser of the two worse.

Posted by Toronto Condos on August 11, 2008.

Great article and give really some informative view. Thanks for given your view. Whatever the election process it should be fair cause all our prospects depend on political stability.

Posted by buy isk on September 13, 2008.