Posted by Dinah on October 13, 2012, at 20:34:17
In reply to Re: Debate Last Night On Medicare + Insurance » phillipa, posted by jane d on October 13, 2012, at 1:03:21
I only put up a sign if I feel really strongly about someone. I've put up signs less than a handful of times in my life, I'd estimate. To me, it's a symbol of commitment to a candidate, as opposed to simply voting for them. As such, I would consider it wrong of me to consider how it would be viewed by my neighbors. (Which may explain why I don't have all that many friends.)
I try not to judge people for their manner in the debates. I can't watch them anymore without thinking of all the coaching a candidate gets on what to do with his face, his voice, his gestures, his stance, etc. Very few people can pull off that level of self consciousness while also trying to remember enough material not to make a serious gaffe. When I do watch debates, I find that I spend the time trying to figure out what their coaches instructed them to do. It's been a long time since I saw anyone look at ease in a debate.
Except for actual rudeness. I do judge people for that. I don't even care if they were coached to seem masterful or aggressive. I just don't like incivility. In fact, the only campaign commercial I've liked this year was the one advocating no candidate at all in any race, but calling for civility in the public arena.
That being said, I didn't think either candidate smirked from what I saw. I think facial expressions can be judged differently by different people. It does kind of bother me to see judgments like that made about Romney, simply because in style he resembles many of the men I grew up with and respected. I have a feeling it's a style that is often misinterpreted by the modern world.
I don't mean this as an endorsement or criticism of either candidate. I won't be putting out any yard signs this year.
I hate election years. Thank heavens for cable and DVD's.
poster:Dinah
thread:1028409
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20121009/msgs/1028578.html