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Discussion Boards => Off-Topic => Debate & Discuss => Topic started by: CSIChik72 on February 16, 2012, 07:23:38 pm

Title: Do You Vote?
Post by: CSIChik72 on February 16, 2012, 07:23:38 pm
When I say vote, I mean do you make an educated vote or vote for whomever your freinds and family are voting for? I think if more people actuially made an EDUCATED voting decision, we might actually get someone in office who will actuualy do more than increase debt!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Val912 on February 16, 2012, 09:28:14 pm
I do vote. I think that if people vote on what is important then this crazy world would be much better. People should stand and be counted all over.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: shepherdchik on February 17, 2012, 05:39:18 am
Unfortunately that's a big problem that anyone who wants to vote can and it's not usually an educated one. I know it is our right in this country but that doesn't mean you have to or should. I myself do not vote for that reason. I don't listen to what the people running have to say and their opinions close enough to feel I can make an educated vote and for the most part what I hear I don't like anyway. People will vote on looks or whether they are male or female or nationality or religion..which shouldn't play any part in politics at all..and those are all the very Wrong reasons to vote. People don't think about it enough before they check off that box on the ballot that it will affect them and everyone else. You will never make everyone happy no matter what. All the candidates do is lie and people seem to forget this when they are voting.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Abrupt on February 17, 2012, 06:29:30 am
Even an educated vote is difficult to make these days unless one is willing to openly do research on their own, and even then sometimes the truth isn't even there.  Recently, Media Matters has been exposed to be more than just a simple "left wing watchdog group" but that it has daily meetings with the White House and then basically writes the news for MSNBC, and columnists from the LA times and NY Times basically write what Media Matters (and hence the White House) tells them to.  With the White House executing such a campaign of disinformation and propaganda it becomes increasingly difficult to know where this "truth" is coming from and just how true this "truth" is.  Don't get me wrong this is done on both the left and the right, so everyone should be cautious about using limited sources for learning of what is going on.  We are basically lazy though and we also fail to hold accountable those we find deceiving us, I suppose because of confirmation bias mainly.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: hawkeye3210 on February 17, 2012, 04:01:51 pm
Yes, I only vote on the issues that I have done research while leaving the others blank.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: vickysue on February 17, 2012, 04:12:57 pm
I have voted everysince i was old enough to vote. It is a way to voice your opion. And i intend to vote again, And it will not be for Obama.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: sdenimandlace1 on February 18, 2012, 08:17:26 am
I have been voting since I turned 18, I always vote for who will try and do the best job.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Thesaboteur on February 18, 2012, 11:07:14 am
I don't. Mostly because the choices we have are all going to the rich and won't help our country. Obama promised lots of things but failed to deliver. Pull out of Iraq done. Drag us into another war.... makes Iraq sort of redundant. The only choice of making things better is a revolution. It is all about social progress.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: RakiaTaylor on February 18, 2012, 08:02:12 pm
I make educated votes!

I learned early that not every candidate in my political affiliation is a good fit for the current state of the country.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: diala84 on February 20, 2012, 07:35:39 am
I vote when I research what is being vote upon. I admit the local elections I don't tend to take the time needed to make an educated decision. If I don't know how to vote then I don't. However for presidential elections I really research and make an informed choice. In the end though it ends up being the lesser of two evils because in order to vote as others are voting so you can win an election you have to vote for the popular candidates. My vote is only  a drop in a very large ocean and I have no control over what others vote for so I make the best decision I can for the candidates that are the most popular. It is sad but you are lying if that isn't a factor when you vote.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: meguk on February 21, 2012, 11:38:02 am
Our parents always said if you don't vote, you don't eat.  They figured that even spoiling a ballot, as a protest, was better than being apathetic and uninvolved.
I vote.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: mawhite63 on February 22, 2012, 03:57:17 am
Excellent question CSIChik72, and I totally agree with  you. Too many people I know who do vote don't cast an educated vote. It's not directed at either political party, just people who don't educate themselves.

My personal opinion is voting for candidates running for congress, as well as at the state legislature, is even more important than the presidential election.

I voted as soon as I turned 18 and have been doing so ever since. My feeling - women were jailed for my right to vote, and it would be doing their memory a dishonor not to take the time out.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Joeyramone on February 22, 2012, 07:58:52 am
I vote, but it hardly matters where I live.  The morons in this city and state vote for the worst candidates... even in the face of looming bankruptcy, a terrible educational system, high crime, political corruption, etc...

Mind numbed fools either voting for a party because its all they have been taught to do or voting for government 'feebies'.  Sickening.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ghunter on February 22, 2012, 08:31:28 am
I vote and I always vote for the BEST candidate, no matter what party, color, or whatever... as long they are for the people and care about what is happening with the world.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: angsilva2000 on February 22, 2012, 11:30:26 am
I never vote, dont want to
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ajami on February 26, 2012, 12:08:18 am
I Vote but not every year. It depends on who is running.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Phx0808 on February 26, 2012, 01:15:30 am
Not that it matters, but I vote every election.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lgemini on February 26, 2012, 04:40:11 pm
Everyone has the right to vote and they should.  My daughter will get that right to vote soon.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: constance312003 on February 26, 2012, 04:42:56 pm
YES!!! If everyone would would vote and keep informed we would not be in the mess we are in as a country.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: frozenimage on February 26, 2012, 05:45:34 pm
I didn't vote before, but this year I will, because alot of things are at stake such as the economy. Ron Paul is the only person I see who is America's last hope.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Mykat on February 27, 2012, 09:27:44 pm
I wholeheartedly agree with you frozenimage.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: d1cheetah on February 27, 2012, 11:33:33 pm
If I don't vote.... then I can't *bleep* about the results.  I'm not gonna stop bitchin, so I gotta keep voting.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ssmsurvey on February 29, 2012, 09:36:37 am
I always vote even though it may feel like it doesn't count. I research as much as a can and try to get others to vote. Though our choices may be limited at times, it is still one of the best ways to make our wishes known.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: sarabtrayior on March 01, 2012, 10:28:02 am
I do vote, because I think that if you do not vote, you can't say anything about what is happening all around us... so VOTE, VOTE, VOTE and get the word out...
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: gramev64 on March 20, 2012, 08:23:28 pm
I always vote for who I think will be best for the position they are running for.  Of course I have to do some research on the person running.  If I don't know anything about someone running for a particular office, I just don't cast my vote just to say I voted!!!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ashrd870 on March 21, 2012, 12:55:34 am
YES,I VOTE! I also research who it is I am voting for. Its obvious neither will be completely honest but they do address individual concerns just wish they could actually get this done in one term but that is not realistic. If it was a perfect world we would have a successful president who loves their nation,their people those of all walks of life,who puts themselves at the same level as we all are at instead of above us,help those in need,take care of those children whom can't take care of themselves and keeps his promises. I do however believe in the saying, "you should not complain about things you do not vote to control". Meaning if you have an opinion please vote! Vote your opinion, Vote for your beliefs! God Bless America ;D
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: patti4me on March 21, 2012, 09:23:24 am
I never vote, dont want to

I certainly vote for the Presidental elections and most of the statewide elections.  I don't always vote for local isssues simply because I don't usually know enough about an issue to know whether to vote for or against it.  And I realize I should really do better about the local stuff.   But, if an issue or office election comes up that I do know about, then I will vote.  I feel uneducated votes are one of the main reasons we have Obama for president now but hopefully he will not get elected again.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ec4lady on March 21, 2012, 02:43:42 pm
 There are no candidates running that will really change anything.  They are all apart of the washington insiders and they do not want change in any form or fashion. The only way we will get change is if we chase all of them out of washington and elect the common people with small incomes and a lot of common sense.  We need to quit being the worlds keeper and start thinking about being Americas keeper.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: hicaniplay on March 27, 2012, 04:00:08 am
I vote, but not always for local politics (I vote on issues more often than people). If I haven't had time to do much research into it, I usually abstain from voting.
We do discuss politics occasionally in my family, but that doesn't mean everyone votes the same way. Some of us are very opinionated. ;D
Sometimes we do manage to change each others minds on an issue though.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: constance312003 on March 27, 2012, 05:51:40 pm
Voting is very important as well as keeping up with the issues.  These days media and politics are full of deception and the only way to stay above the game is to keep informed.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: x0uncbabiix03 on March 27, 2012, 06:10:28 pm
ALWAYS. Its one of the most important things you do for your country.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: d1cheetah on March 28, 2012, 02:09:18 pm
There are no candidates running that will really change anything.  They are all apart of the washington insiders and they do not want change in any form or fashion. The only way we will get change is if we chase all of them out of washington and elect the common people with small incomes and a lot of common sense.  We need to quit being the worlds keeper and start thinking about being Americas keeper.
  I agree with you on that.  Some politicians come into office thinking they can really change things, but then corporate America puts their thumbs on the politicians they control from past support, and these corporations continue to influence what may or may not become law.  Problem is any educated smart civilian from politics that tries to run will get squashed like a bug by the corporate financed incumbents and other front runners.  Just look how the republican candidates have trashed each other in the last few elections, digging up garbage on each other, distorting facts to put their competitors in a bad light, even though half of what they said was out of context.  These days only Professional politicians get in office since any regular guy/gal will get torn to pieces, even if they were really a saint.  It will eventually take some type of uprising to stop the madness.  I don't think that will happen as long as corporate America has their hands in everything. Look how easily defeated the 99% movement was knocked out.  And most Americans agree with their initiative, just not the freeloading that started to jump into their campaign. It's a scary time for democracy in America right now.  Most people don't see what's coming, I think.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: mardukblood2009 on April 07, 2012, 05:47:48 pm
I voted for president twice and felt like I was molested both times. NEVER AGAIN!!!!!!!!!! :BangHead: :BangHead: :BangHead:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: kolathegreat on April 08, 2012, 10:12:02 am
I DONT VOTE BECAUSE TOO MANY LIES
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on April 09, 2012, 12:58:05 am
I DONT VOTE BECAUSE TOO MANY LIES

So, it's not because you're too young to vote afterall.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: healthfreedom on April 09, 2012, 09:40:58 am
Yes, I exercise my right to vote because many people have suffered great things for me to be free and voice my opinion through the voting process.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: gaylasue on April 11, 2012, 05:46:01 am
I vote for the person that I feel is the best candidate for the position.  Unfortunately, I don't pick very many winners.  At least I can proudly say I didn't vote for the mess we have been in for the past several years.  I haven't missed voting in an election since I turned 18.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: shaun3434 on May 03, 2012, 02:10:42 am
no i do no not vote....
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: barbme1972 on May 03, 2012, 10:30:30 pm
Yes, I do vote.  I take my time and read, not listen to what the canidates stand for.  I look at the issues that are important to me and see where the canidates stand on them.  I don't listen to them because it frustrates me to listen when they are running for office.  So there is my answer on that one. :female: :peace:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: sammywantsya on May 04, 2012, 07:50:07 am
nah i dont vote even tho i just became american like 3 years ago i dontw ant too. american gov is too currpted i cant take it with there lies

i replied other topics  on this column for many reasons is to get you caught by the admins.. from now on im gonna post topic at hand and im gonna ignore you which i had..  this was a test to prove you where stalking me and making smirky comments. i have many claims you where following me on every posts i make in this forum...


 im doing this to warn you dont even go there..

VVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 04, 2012, 02:13:30 pm
nah i dont vote even tho i just became american like 3 years ago i dontw ant too. american gov is too currpted i cant take it with there lies

I see; your explanation goes far in accounting for your poor command of the English language, (which isn't necessarily an 'insult' so much as it is a reflection of your demonstrable poor gammar).  If you're actually ignoring my posts, you won't see this question; what country did you immigrate from 3 years ago?
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: natashaspy on May 04, 2012, 02:36:22 pm
not only do i vote, i take time to read over the candidates positions, opinions... i'm a registered democrat, but have voted independant, and republican when i thought they were better choices
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: sammywantsya on May 04, 2012, 03:23:14 pm
i feel admired if people do vote it shows they got something they wanted to do... glad we have younger viewers thats in politics. i hope our young generation can fix things up.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: am28slone on May 08, 2012, 06:51:36 pm
Yes, I vote. I don't vote for who my friends vote for. I vote educated
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: constance312003 on May 08, 2012, 07:26:00 pm
Voting is very important- not just on a federal level but on a state and local level as well.  Things will not change until we start from the smallest office and move to the highest.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: springsgardner on May 08, 2012, 07:34:35 pm
When I say vote, I mean do you make an educated vote or vote for whomever your freinds and family are voting for? I think if more people actuially made an EDUCATED voting decision, we might actually get someone in office who will actuualy do more than increase debt!

I do vote. I hope that ear marks and other garbage will disappear so that it will be easier to figure out why so-and-so voted for or against a bill.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lbryanwf on May 08, 2012, 07:51:55 pm
CSIchick72...You are so right! Last election people bought into the "hype" without seeing what lies beneath, and now look where we are as a country. Deply in debt and headed for the end of Democracy as we know it. If they looked into the candidates history at last election, they would have found that all his mentors and teachers were either Socialist or Marxist. Not to mention that he had never run or ben in charge of anything in his life! That is his core belief system, and that is what he is trying to force on America. I hope this time around, people will do their research and make a wiser choice...If something seems to be too good to be true, it probably is (and was!) Just a footnote.. I was talking to a fellow law enforcement officer in his 20's, ( He already told me he voted for "Obammy" when  I asked him why. He admitted that he didn't particularly like the man, but that he wanted "the free stuff"...How sickening is that!!!  :bs:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: springsgardner on May 08, 2012, 07:56:18 pm
I was talking to a fellow law enforcement officer in his 20's, ( He already told me he voted for "Obammy" when  I asked him why. He admitted that he didn't particularly like the man, but that he wanted "the free stuff"...How sickening is that!!!  :bs:

It's so free that he'll have to work his butt off paying taxes to obtain that "free" stuff.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lbryanwf on May 08, 2012, 08:04:35 pm
Exactly, Springsgardner... Oh the ignorance!!!!! When I last pumped gas, someone had put a sticky note on the pump. It said "How much more"Hope and Change" can I afford?
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: gramev64 on May 08, 2012, 08:42:27 pm
I always was taught that it was a great right that this country fought for, and we should participate in every election. I try to vote for who I think would do the right things, but boy am I wrong sometimes!  I think sometimes the politicians speak with tongue in cheek or forked tongue, etc.  Anyway, nothing ever seems to get done according to what they promise!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: handllucas on May 09, 2012, 05:42:01 pm
I always vote ad I feel tht everyone whodoes should make educated decisions about their choices.
Uneducated voters are just a part of the problem with the democratic process.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: tkfarris on May 12, 2012, 09:04:39 am
When I say vote, I mean do you make an educated vote or vote for whomever your freinds and family are voting for? I think if more people actuially made an EDUCATED voting decision, we might actually get someone in office who will actuualy do more than increase debt!
well some times i do but here lately i dont becase they are gunna stick people they wont in there enyway there are a few people i like not to meny i like obama hes trying to clean up all the ex presdents mess up but it will take a long time i liked cliton to he got ower defestet under control thats what we need so we can be out of debt
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: constance312003 on May 12, 2012, 03:06:51 pm
I will vote or Romey just to work to get Obama out of office.  His befiefs will destroy our country.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 12, 2012, 03:25:01 pm
I will vote or Romey just to work to get Obama out of office.  His befiefs will destroy our country.

Conversely, I will not vote for Romney nor anyone else whose religious beliefs are detrimental to this country.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Zhongmou on May 16, 2012, 04:10:11 pm
I don't vote. I am one of those people who think that one opinion won't change a thing.

Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: walksalone11 on May 16, 2012, 04:32:26 pm
I don't vote. I am one of those people who think that one opinion won't change a thing.


and accordingly, yours wont.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 16, 2012, 04:38:39 pm
I don't vote. I am one of those people who think that one opinion won't change a thing.

and accordingly, yours wont.

Imagine if ten people took the position that their 'ten' opinions "won't change a thing".  Now imagine 10,000 doing so ... or, 100,000 - or one million ... 
That's how voter apathy can affect elections; by omission.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: frozenimage on May 17, 2012, 05:56:33 pm
I usually don't vote, but seeing how america is now, I feel obligated to. I'd say we should vote in new blood, out with the old. It's a start from my perspective.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: healthfreedom on May 18, 2012, 06:56:29 pm
Yes I dedfinitely vote. It would be a sin and a shame for a person not to exercise their right to vote. Too many people before us has made too many sacrifices to enable us to have this right.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 18, 2012, 07:16:32 pm
It would be a sin and a shame for a person not to exercise their right to vote. 

Not voting is not a "sin", even if that's a euphemism.  It's a choice to exercise a right or not to.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: bottomprice on May 18, 2012, 08:25:46 pm
yes i do
i will vote for dem.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: sdenimandlace1 on May 24, 2012, 07:01:30 pm
I vote every election. would not miss it.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: rghvac69 on May 24, 2012, 07:16:48 pm
I vote as well. I haven't missed an election since 1988.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lbryanwf on May 24, 2012, 08:05:08 pm
I do a lot of research before I vote. I listen less to the promises and pay more attention to the background of the candidate. Specifically who were his mentors and associates prior to his political career. What were his political leanings, who did he admire? In the last unfortunate election, had most people ignored the phony "Hope and Change" mantra and promises of "free stuff" and looked more at the mans socialist and marxist leanings, his refusal to wear the American flag pin and my personal favorite...the "crotch salute" while the national anthem was being played, we would not be in the horrible mess we are today! :bs:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 25, 2012, 12:25:02 am
... and my personal favorite...the "crotch salute" while the national anthem was being played ...

There was a "crotch salute"?  Was that captured on video?  The reason the questions arose was because it's unclear whether you meant he saluted a crotch, used his crotch to confer a salute or, something else and a picture would clarify your meaning.  Thanks in advance.   :o
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lbryanwf on May 25, 2012, 09:29:06 am
Regarding "crotch salute"....There are many many pictures of this taken by the media at various events. In short, during playing of national anthem,  or pledge of alliegence, surrounded by persons either saluting the flag, or with hands on hearts, there he stands with hands folded over his crotch, thus the term "crotch salute" You asked for a picture, here is one of many.....

http://media.photobucket.com/image/obama%20crotch%20salute/Renegade_in_TN/crotchsalute.jpg?o=1
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: lbryanwf on May 25, 2012, 09:32:56 am
Re: "Crotch Salute"

The link to the picture posted previously may have to be clicked on to enlarge. Oh and by the way, said picture was from Veterans Day Ceremony, 11/11/09, Arlington National Cemetery. It may be the National Anthem or the Flag being presented, but EVERYBODY in the picture is either saluting or has his hand over the HEART ... except ONE
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 25, 2012, 09:59:09 pm
Re: "Crotch Salute"

The link to the picture posted previously may have to be clicked on to enlarge. Oh and by the way, said picture was from Veterans Day Ceremony, 11/11/09, Arlington National Cemetery. It may be the National Anthem or the Flag being presented, but EVERYBODY in the picture is either saluting or has his hand over the HEART ... except ONE

Okay, in that still shot, Obama has his hands linked in front of his crotch area, (not a 'crotch-grabbing' salute as indirectly-implied).  Since he has placed his hand over his heart before for the Anthem, there's no way to tell whether or not he maintained the 'non-crotch-grabbed salute' or, had his hand over his heart 9 milliseconds after the picture was taken.  You do realize that "paparazzi" photographers can be quite adept at capturing an 'out-of-context' moment, (as Brittany Spear or Paris Hilton could confirm, for example).  

Hey, maybe Obama did maintain that 'non-grabbed crotch-area salute' until after the anthem finished.  Unfortunately, there isn't a comparative time-frame showing that the timespan durations of the anthem playing and a crotch not being grabbed coincided, (since it's been shown in other videos that civilian government employees are often 'pre-cued' before the anthem starts to do the hand-over-heart posturings).
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: jordandog on May 26, 2012, 06:01:29 am
Regarding "crotch salute"....There are many many pictures of this taken by the media at various events. In short, during playing of national anthem,  or pledge of alliegence, surrounded by persons either saluting the flag, or with hands on hearts, there he stands with hands folded over his crotch, thus the term "crotch salute" You asked for a picture, here is one of many.....

http://media.photobucket.com/image/obama%20crotch%20salute/Renegade_in_TN/crotchsalute.jpg?o=1

And you just might want to check before parroting statements that are false and showing photos taken out of context. ::) I am NO supporter of Obama, but I will defend him on this one. That photo is from the wreath laying ceremony and was taken just as he walked onto the stage while "Hail To the Chief" was playing. His hands are exactly where they are supposed to be according to ceremonial protocol. IF he HAD saluted, he would have been saluting himself....which is both foolish and highly inappropriate.
Any of you can check this out because the truth re the 'situation' (not just repeats of the same photo) is also in many places.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 26, 2012, 11:45:14 am
Regarding "crotch salute"....There are many many pictures of this taken by the media at various events. In short, during playing of national anthem,  or pledge of alliegence, surrounded by persons either saluting the flag, or with hands on hearts, there he stands with hands folded over his crotch, thus the term "crotch salute" You asked for a picture, here is one of many.....

http://media.photobucket.com/image/obama%20crotch%20salute/Renegade_in_TN/crotchsalute.jpg?o=1

And you just might want to check before parroting statements that are false and showing photos taken out of context. ::) I am NO supporter of Obama, but I will defend him on this one. That photo is from the wreath laying ceremony and was taken just as he walked onto the stage while "Hail To the Chief" was playing. His hands are exactly where they are supposed to be according to ceremonial protocol. IF he HAD saluted, he would have been saluting himself....which is both foolish and highly inappropriate.
Any of you can check this out because the truth re the 'situation' (not just repeats of the same photo) is also in many places.

Protocol requires military personnel to stand and salute their Commander-and-Chief while Hail To The Chief is being played; the civilian government employee protocol is the hand-over-the-heart during the same tune, (as depicted in the photograph).  So, the context was misrepresented as occurring during the playing of the National Anthem when the photo was actually taken during Hail To The Chief, as Jdog points out.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Abrupt on May 26, 2012, 01:36:27 pm
Regarding "crotch salute"....There are many many pictures of this taken by the media at various events. In short, during playing of national anthem,  or pledge of alliegence, surrounded by persons either saluting the flag, or with hands on hearts, there he stands with hands folded over his crotch, thus the term "crotch salute" You asked for a picture, here is one of many.....

http://media.photobucket.com/image/obama%20crotch%20salute/Renegade_in_TN/crotchsalute.jpg?o=1

And you just might want to check before parroting statements that are false and showing photos taken out of context. ::) I am NO supporter of Obama, but I will defend him on this one. That photo is from the wreath laying ceremony and was taken just as he walked onto the stage while "Hail To the Chief" was playing. His hands are exactly where they are supposed to be according to ceremonial protocol. IF he HAD saluted, he would have been saluting himself....which is both foolish and highly inappropriate.
Any of you can check this out because the truth re the 'situation' (not just repeats of the same photo) is also in many places.

Protocol requires military personnel to stand and salute their Commander-and-Chief while Hail To The Chief is being played; the civilian government employee protocol is the hand-over-the-heart during the same tune, (as depicted in the photograph).  So, the context was misrepresented as occurring during the playing of the National Anthem when the photo was actually taken during Hail To The Chief, as Jdog points out.

A bit off topic, but once in the service during AIT I was running to the commissary (not allowed to walk, of course) and A second lieutenant was riding a bicycle in my direction.  With nowhere to 'hide' and not knowing the protocol I saluted him.  He returned and abruptly went off into a ditch and crashed.  Fortunately for me he wasn't upset at all and he explained he wasn't entirely certain of the protocol (I found out later he isn't supposed to return but I guess it is habit or something).
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 26, 2012, 01:54:05 pm
A bit off topic, but once in the service during AIT I was running to the commissary (not allowed to walk, of course) and A second lieutenant was riding a bicycle in my direction.  With nowhere to 'hide' and not knowing the protocol I saluted him.  He returned and abruptly went off into a ditch and crashed.  Fortunately for me he wasn't upset at all and he explained he wasn't entirely certain of the protocol (I found out later he isn't supposed to return but I guess it is habit or something).

In a somewhat similiar incident, I was turning a corner on foot to enter a base commissary while different second louie was exiting with both arms full of grocery bags.  As I abruptly turned that corner, I whipped a quick salute to the officer who, being somewhat surprised, dropped the bags in his right hand as he returned the salute.  He may have glared at me as I continued on into the commissary but, said nothing and began picking up his groceries from the ground.  The LT. should have also been aware that he didn't need to return a salute if his arms were full but, "butterbars" are notorious for being sticklers for saluting protocol.  Serves 'em right.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Abrupt on May 26, 2012, 05:25:53 pm
A bit off topic, but once in the service during AIT I was running to the commissary (not allowed to walk, of course) and A second lieutenant was riding a bicycle in my direction.  With nowhere to 'hide' and not knowing the protocol I saluted him.  He returned and abruptly went off into a ditch and crashed.  Fortunately for me he wasn't upset at all and he explained he wasn't entirely certain of the protocol (I found out later he isn't supposed to return but I guess it is habit or something).

In a somewhat similiar incident, I was turning a corner on foot to enter a base commissary while different second louie was exiting with both arms full of grocery bags.  As I abruptly turned that corner, I whipped a quick salute to the officer who, being somewhat surprised, dropped the bags in his right hand as he returned the salute.  He may have glared at me as I continued on into the commissary but, said nothing and began picking up his groceries from the ground.  The LT. should have also been aware that he didn't need to return a salute if his arms were full but, "butterbars" are notorious for being sticklers for saluting protocol.  Serves 'em right.

Ha ha.  I bet he had a polished perfect salute that he practiced for at least two hours a night in the mirror.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 26, 2012, 05:38:45 pm
Ha ha.  I bet he had a polished perfect salute that he practiced for at least two hours a night in the mirror.

It's been speculated before that most "butterbars" are like those two.  Lots of Second Lt.s seem to 'seek out a salute' on purpose ... they sure get pissed when they don't get one.  For instance, in an unrelated incident at a different base, I'd been talking outside with 3 other sargents when I noticed a 2nd Lt. approaching toward us on foot.  After giving the others a brief heads up, we all made sure we were looking in any other direction than at the Lt. when he arrived.  The Lt. stopped and tried to catch our eyes but, (according to protocol, you have to see an outranking officer before saluting), we each contrived to be looking 'elsewhere' until he finally spoke asking, "Does anyone here remember how to salute a superior officer?!?"

Being the senior NCO there, I got to reply, "Sir, we didn't see one ... at first."  We then all snapped a salute at once as he growled and returned it.  It's sometimes necessary to remind junior officers that NCOs actually run things in the military.
 :o
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Abrupt on May 26, 2012, 06:18:06 pm
Ha ha.  I bet he had a polished perfect salute that he practiced for at least two hours a night in the mirror.

It's been speculated before that most "butterbars" are like those two.  Lots of Second Lt.s seem to 'seek out a salute' on purpose ... they sure get pissed when they don't get one.  For instance, in an unrelated incident at a different base, I'd been talking outside with 3 other sargents when I noticed a 2nd Lt. approaching toward us on foot.  After giving the others a brief heads up, we all made sure we were looking in any other direction than at the Lt. when he arrived.  The Lt. stopped and tried to catch our eyes but, (according to protocol, you have to see an outranking officer before saluting), we each contrived to be looking 'elsewhere' until he finally spoke asking, "Does anyone here remember how to salute a superior officer?!?"

Being the senior NCO there, I got to reply, "Sir, we didn't see one ... at first."  We then all snapped a salute at once as he growled and returned it.  It's sometimes necessary to remind junior officers that NCOs actually run things in the military.
 :o

That is funny.  I have played the 'dodge' game too when I couldn't hide.  I found 'spots' to be even more insufferable (at least you don't have to salute them) than a 2nd Lt, but fortunately you don't have to deal with them often.

Have you ever been in the odd case where rank was not visible and the uniform was otherwise indistinguishable (but military, such as BDU's) and you had to address someone?
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 26, 2012, 06:32:07 pm
Have you ever been in the odd case where rank was not visible and the uniform was otherwise indistinguishable (but military, such as BDU's) and you had to address someone?

Yes, although some military protocols are somewhat ... relaxed in combat theaters of operations, (it was rapidly discovered sometime ago that saluting or addressing an officer as "sir" could cause them to eat a sniper's bullet in certain situations).
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: CottonCandy21 on May 28, 2012, 01:06:34 am
I DON'T vote, I could make one hell of a good educated vote if I wanted to but it wouldn't matter, what good does voting do when you got jackass presidents like George Bush who pay to have ballots tossed aside??
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Abrupt on May 28, 2012, 10:22:46 am
I DON'T vote, I could make one hell of a good educated vote if I wanted to but it wouldn't matter, what good does voting do when you got jackass presidents like George Bush who pay to have ballots tossed aside??

Can you show proof of this allegation?  I ask this because I have never heard of it (not that I am privy to everything, but I haven't even heard such an accusation, even from the left wing radical crazies so I wonder what sort of evidence I have missed). 
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: im_a_preacher on May 28, 2012, 10:57:43 am
When I say vote, I mean do you make an educated vote or vote for whomever your freinds and family are voting for? I think if more people actuially made an EDUCATED voting decision, we might actually get someone in office who will actuualy do more than increase debt!
[/quote

I vote according to my christian convictions
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: falcon9 on May 28, 2012, 11:14:16 am
I vote according to my christian convictions

While you are free to vote as wished, your "vote" is based upon significantly biased preconceptions and is skewed beyond that of a merely uninformed voter.  Doubtless such 'blind-faither' votes contributed to getting a right-wingnut like Bush elected to damage this country and then blame the democrats for such damage done.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: gramev64 on May 28, 2012, 06:39:43 pm
I do vote.  I count it as a great freedom that this great USA gives us.  May it always be this way.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: angsilva2000 on June 05, 2012, 05:08:12 pm
I dont vote
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ninajay on June 07, 2012, 07:07:44 pm
I vote, but only on the issues I have researched and understand.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: gaylasue on June 09, 2012, 08:27:45 am
I have voted in every election since I turned 18 years old (33+ years now).  I vote according to my knowledge of the candidate and my beliefs.  Unfortunately, the majority of the people I have voted for the past 20 years or so have lost.  At least I can say I voted and the mess our country is in isn't my fault!  I would like to see more worthy Americans step forward to hold our public office.  People who will put others first instead of their own personal gains.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: trucktina on July 31, 2012, 08:55:59 pm
Yeah, I do research and vote based on that. great question!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: egypt31 on August 01, 2012, 03:43:06 pm
I have only voted once since I turned 18 and I am now 31, although I am planning on voting this year. The one time I voted I actually added my own nominee to the ballet, Mickey Mouse, and sadly enough I feel it was an educated vote he probably would have done better, LOL. Now I know that it is important to voice my opinion though, and will be putting my two cents in if at all possible, We the people, US
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ssmsurvey on August 01, 2012, 04:00:16 pm
Absolutely!!! I may not always vote on the isses if I am not familiar with them but to do vote.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: Boise40 on August 01, 2012, 08:01:37 pm
nope, I don't vote because I'm not a registered voter and I plan to keep it that way.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: mjoseph1 on August 01, 2012, 08:07:14 pm
I vote and I always vote for the BEST candidate, no matter what party, color, or whatever... as long they are for the people and care about what is happening with the world.

i also try to do this, i do my best to research the issues and and see which candidates stand for what i believe in and what can help and vote for them regardless of party, color, etc. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: bleyd on August 01, 2012, 08:26:17 pm
I do vote. But wonder if it does any good?  People seem to vote for the same people back in office, no matter how good or bad they are. I try not to vote someone based on party lines (Dem, Rep, or Ind), but based on what they stand of on issues.  But this year, I may have to.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: hiscountrygirl09 on August 02, 2012, 10:31:13 pm
I do vote. I think that if people vote on what is important then this crazy world would be much better. People should stand and be counted all over.

I agree 100%!!!!! I vote and I make educated votes. I feel that if you don't vote then you have no right to say anything just for the fact your opinion doesn't matter because you didn't make it known by voting.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: kewl4reals on August 05, 2012, 02:30:37 am
I have only voted once since I turned 18 and I am now 31, although I am planning on voting this year. The one time I voted I actually added my own nominee to the ballet, Mickey Mouse, and sadly enough I feel it was an educated vote he probably would have done better, LOL. Now I know that it is important to voice my opinion though, and will be putting my two cents in if at all possible, We the people, US


THE SAD PART about voting, (in north AMerica) is that many who do choose to vote, are unaware of even just what or who THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE is , and what THERE JOB'S INVOLVE, AND INCLUDE......................
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: ajami on August 06, 2012, 09:19:54 pm
I vote depending on who is running.  If i do not like anyone running I stay out of it.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: work778 on August 10, 2012, 01:01:40 pm
I sure do vote.  I always say you should not sit there and complain if you haven't voted.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: mardukblood2009 on August 14, 2012, 04:53:34 pm
Not anymore. When there is somebody worth voting for let be know. :BangHead: :BangHead: :BangHead: :BangHead:
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: tortiz1 on August 15, 2012, 12:12:23 pm
I don't vote.  More than just half of the americans voting will hav to get together in order to truly make a difference.  But even still everyone will have to have an interest in politics, which I don't.  Government politics or office politics, in my opinion, all suck!!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: tinajacksonville on August 30, 2012, 09:39:01 am
Voting is our right. All of us that vote should remember that if we educate ourselves before we go to the polls then we will be confident with our decision. If we dont know anything about who we voted for or what we voted for then we will question our votes but then its to late to do anything about. Educate yourself before you Vote. 
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: elandry on August 30, 2012, 11:10:12 pm
I vote-- and before I vote, I educate myself as thoroughly as possible on the candidates and the issues, and attempt to vote based on the perceived greater good of all rather than perceived personal gain. I believe (go, ahead, shoot me later-- after November) that both voting and jury duty are civic responsibilities. I am a U.S. citizen-- my family has fought in every war since the revolution. My relatives have fought and died to build this country, so I do my part-- I pay my taxes-- all of them-- I vote in every election (if I can't find someone to vote FOR, I can find someone to vote AGAINST, or I vote based on issues in municipal cases and referendums), and I serve my jury time.

If you enjoy the benefits of citizenship, then it is only proper that you should fulfill the obligations as well-- serving in the military for some, paying taxes, voting and jury duty. If the people neglect their dities to uphold a free nation, then the nation will no longer be free.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: hawkeye3210 on August 31, 2012, 07:52:19 am
P Diddy once told me that I either vote or I die. I have been voting ever since.
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: bessie1111 on August 31, 2012, 08:18:21 am
Always!!!!
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: tinajacksonville on August 31, 2012, 01:47:39 pm
Well I know who im voting for when it comes to President of the United States. Im voting for Mitt Romney
Title: Re: Do You Vote?
Post by: workmama on August 31, 2012, 03:06:31 pm
I only vote if I really like the person is nominated or running for office. I know that isn't what I should do and that I should vote no matter what, but I am not really into political viewpoints. I wish politics were not so confusing. I almost flunked American Government in high school, so just anything that has to do with Government or political I really have no interest.  :P