What motivates voters?
To the editor:
An observation that can be made about our recent election is that it tended to be more influenced by receptive “buzz words” than factual reality. Phrases that are anti government or less government, less spending, greater choice or freedom are most effective.
Most voters like those concepts and tend to be conservative.
Programs that are labeled “socialism” are abhorred by most voters. But the reality is that public schools, Social Security and Medicare are in effect socialism. In terms of local and national government spending they constitute the largest items. They also are popular with the majority of voters who do not support being abolished or being reduced.
What then really influences our elections? In broad terms voters like the conservative themes of small government and “freedom” better than the liberal view of equality and government services. It is these themes as an ideology that influence the ballot but fail as a governing one afterwards. It is the debate on philosophy rather than specific programs that make the connection with the voters. But, it is politically difficult, if not impossible for conservatives to follow their ideology after being elected.
Arnold Kempe
Cape Coral