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Originally Posted by Sen
I've wrestled with how to post these thoughts because I know the audience on this board is traditionally more liberal than the population at large. In no way is this meant as disrespect or blatant flame-bait.
That being said, I have 2 thoughts about the rhetoric I've heard following the election.
Am I the only one that feels like this or does anyone else share this perspective? Your thoughts...
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1. Gay Marriage
I don't believe the average voter was knowingly thinking that they were being hateful towards gays when they voted for the ban. I really don't think most people considered the legislation that deeply. They just thought to themselves "should marriage be defined as a union between a man and a woman" or not. People across all demographics simply affirmed the traditional definition of marriage.
Very often the majority will discriminate (pass laws) against minorities. The only recourse is the constitution and the courts.
2. Voter Turnout
I believe that both sides managed to help themselves by increasing turnout among those most likely to vote for their cause. It could have easily gone the other way. Even though GW was a weak candidate, Kerry was considered even weaker. I don't consider the margin of victory that much of a mandate of Bush's policies as much as a statement of just how weak Kerry was as a candidate. A "good ol' boy" like Bill Clinton would have made it much closer.
I think that folks on the TFP are more socially aware and consider the issues in greater depth than the general public. I hope this doesn't come across as elitist,, I'm basing my opinion on discussions with family, friends and neighbors.