I'm not really a big fan of demographic polling or of the media or candidates attempting to claim votes based on age, sex or race. We were beaten over the head with it during the primary, to the point where it seemed no one could talk about voters without mentioning what 'kind' they were. The worst, I think, was the 'white working class' voter, like there is any such voting block, but others are nearly as infuriating (although they don't tend to insult quite so blatantly). Sure, there are trends. And there are certain groups of people who are disinclined to vote for one candidate or the other, I just don't understand why it's important to categorize individuals as though we don't have a right to a voice or a vote until someone slaps on a label. It's an excuse, I think, to shift from the issues, and it robs us of that discussion.
On the other hand, and I think this is a legitimate distinction, there are issues that appeal to certain demographic groups, and there is power in numbers when like minded people unite behind a cause. These concerns, like tuition assistance for younger voters and prescription drug prices for the elderly, predispose us to look for a candidate who will address our common needs and concerns in addition to those that promote the general welfare.
So, although it bugs me to be lumped in with a group of like individuals as though I have an obligation to vote based on my block, I do understand and agree with voting for a person based on his or her stand on issues that are important to my particular demographic. And since the media insists, and if the latest polls are any indication, I guess I'll play.
Women have preferred Clinton over Obama by 7 percentage points in this year's Democratic primaries, according to exit polls of voters. But when matched against McCain this month, Obama was ahead among women by 5 points in the Gallup Poll, 13 points in a poll by Quinnipiac University and 20 points in a survey by CBS News and The New York Times.
Thanks for the validation, guys, but this middle age, middle class, college educated, white working woman is not voting for Barack Obama based on any of those characteristics, or because the polls tell me I should. I'm voting for him because I know the things he stands for are the things that are important to me and to others with the same concerns. As a 'Woman for Obama', it's good to know I have lots of company.
Video Credit: BarackObamadotcom
