Voting to win is a losing game.
Kiwis have a serious problem when it comes to voting. For those who do bother to show up, we often find ourselves in one of two boats.
We either vote to win, or we vote against. Let me explain…
Too many of us treat the polling booth like a trip to the TAB. We cast our vote predictively instead of purposefully. There is a strange little adrenaline hit that comes with saying, “I backed the right horse.” But when you vote just to win, the only prize on offer is poorer outcomes and eventual dissatisfaction with the government YOU helped elect.
The other option is voting against. Voting red or blue no matter who. Voting because you can’t let “those other guys” in.
That approach ends in a situationship with a government that gets your vote but never really earns your confidence.
You are not inspired. You are not aligned. You are just relieved the other side lost.
Why do we do this? Why don’t we vote in line with our morals, values, and long term interests?
Lack of trust? Disillusionment? Cynicism? Apathy?
Democratic apathy feels like it is at an all time high. You see it in voter turnout. You see it in polling about political violence.
This year at PILLAR, and every year for that matter, we are encouraging you to vote. Don’t let apathy and cynicism keep you away from the polling booth. Do it with intention. Do it with optimism. Your vote is your voice. It is your chance to shape the future of our nation. Why leave that to chance?
The only vote that doesn’t matter is the one that is never cast.
We believe in democracy. We believe in the future of New Zealand. That is why we are calling out bad legislation and drafting better laws. It is why we are taking cases to court, heading to the University of Auckland to engage thousands of young voters and future professionals, speaking at community events about foreign interference, and going on national media to challenge intrusive online regulation.
Today we release our anticipated Foreign Influence Transparency (FIT) Bill! want to get an exclusive look? You can see it HERE!
Six months in we are proud of what we’re building. And we’re not slowing down.
So two things. First, when you vote this year, give it real thought. Second, if you believe in the work we are doing, consider supporting us to do more of it.
Together, that is how we move toward a freer tomorrow and a democracy we can all be proud of.
