Perhaps it’s the buzz I’m feeling from the Garnacha flowing to my soul. But, I feel liberated. Election day is nearly over. Precincts are now closed and mainstream media networks can now race each other to announce winners based on Vegas-style ejections. No, that’s not a typo.
We can now get back to our regularly scheduled programs. I can rekindle a relationship with my television and mainstream media. Don’t get me wrong. I studied and knew my ballot when it was my turn in the queue this morning. But, I elected to push the mute button on election festivities this season.
Mainstream information about the candidates and proposals is so biased it is not useful in my decision-making process. The millions spent obviously help candidates become elected; otherwise they wouldn’t put up the dollars. But, to me, it’s a waste of time to watch debates, read articles about campaign promises or talk to political advocates on the phone. They’re just talking from cue cards or from an outline some public relations team crafted. Do they really believe in what they’re advocating?
Ironically, my daughter has a social studies test tomorrow on government. For nearly four weeks, she has learned about the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, core democratic values, and the three branches of government. I like that the third-grade teachers taught students about our government during election season; and gave them a reason to become interested how a representative government ought to work.
Now after hours of study, my angel sleeps. I am off to refill my glass of Garnacha and to watch shows I have on my DVR from Sunday night. Once Upon a Time and Revenge are my fave shows this fall. What will you watch tonight? Election results?
Kate Parish 