Previously I have written about why I don't vote why I dont vote I'm guessing that this election voter non-turnout will be at an all-time low. The reason: following the Covid fiasco, trust in politicians is diminished (echoing mistrust in all major institutions including The Fourth Estate or public media, education and health)
According to Stats NZ, voter turnout at the 2020 elections was around 80%, down to around 75% for people under 40*. In the USA voter turnout for eligible voters is even lower- 50-60%. Why aren't we counting this as valuable information being presented on a plate which needs attention? That number of people could hold a very substantial power base; if it were seen as a 'party' in itself, which is something that I do. It is around 500,00 eligible voters!
I am actively promoting the idea of a non-vote being regarded, noted and counted as a vote for no confidence in the political structures or politicians. The main reason given by stats NZ for not voting is 'disengagement', meaning 'this system has nothing to do with me'. The higher your income the more likely you are to turn up and vote. The implication of this is startling: the more I might ostensibly have a reason to vote ie I'm poor, the less I'm likely to vote! This group do not see voting as a way to influence or change their socio economic position. The ideologues would have us believe, and I have already seen election voting promotions on mainstream media, is that if you want to have your say in how our country runs, then vote. If you don't, shut up. Or you are lazy and don't give a shit.
The stats reveal for themselves the lie of this propaganda. The reality that I'm thinking exists is one where family's intergenerational poverty has seen governments left, right, and in-between come and go and their fortunes remain the same. And of course, making you responsible for your own demise- the statement I get directed at me-"If you don't vote you cant complain".
