I really don't like pre-election polls

[soupdragon1]

So I've seen the polling for my constituency. Its always been a neck and neck seat and will be again this time around, but I want neither of them. I'm considering voting for the one I like the most from those 2, so that I feel my vote could make a difference. However, its stopping me voting for my preferred candidate. My preferred candidate will do pretty well though and part of me thinks many others are of a like mind. Do I just vote for them anyway, knowing its probably not going to count, so that I can help shift the long term tide away from the 2 usual front runners?

Its kind of frustrating seeing the polls, as its having an influence on my decision making as I'm swayed towards 'making my vote count' rather than voting for my preferred candidate. I kind of wish it was completely blind as then more people might actually vote for their preferred candidate.

Anyone else feel the same?

[Mr Penguin]

We've reached the point where the polls are the story rather than just a way of illuminating what is happening.

[768]

Tactical voting is fraught with issues. Your vote isn't likely to make the difference. If you go with the person you want, your conscience is clear and when people are in the same situation next time, looking at past results, they'll see your vote counted against the person you actually wanted, rather than one you didn't that further perpetuates the issue of an undesirable choice of two.

[JagLover]

soupdragon1 said:

So I've seen the polling for my constituency. Its always been a neck and neck seat and will be again this time around, but I want neither of them. I'm considering voting for the one I like the most from those 2, so that I feel my vote could make a difference. However, its stopping me voting for my preferred candidate. My preferred candidate will do pretty well though and part of me thinks many others are of a like mind. Do I just vote for them anyway, knowing its probably not going to count, so that I can help shift the long term tide away from the 2 usual front runners?

Its kind of frustrating seeing the polls, as its having an influence on my decision making as I'm swayed towards 'making my vote count' rather than voting for my preferred candidate. I kind of wish it was completely blind as then more people might actually vote for their preferred candidate.

Anyone else feel the same?

The result will be a Labour landslide in any case, so if there was ever a time to just vote for whoever you want it is now. Any argument about "wasted votes" is empty as it doesn't really matter if the Labour majority is 100 or 150.

[soupdragon1]

JagLover said:

soupdragon1 said:

So I've seen the polling for my constituency. Its always been a neck and neck seat and will be again this time around, but I want neither of them. I'm considering voting for the one I like the most from those 2, so that I feel my vote could make a difference. However, its stopping me voting for my preferred candidate. My preferred candidate will do pretty well though and part of me thinks many others are of a like mind. Do I just vote for them anyway, knowing its probably not going to count, so that I can help shift the long term tide away from the 2 usual front runners?

Its kind of frustrating seeing the polls, as its having an influence on my decision making as I'm swayed towards 'making my vote count' rather than voting for my preferred candidate. I kind of wish it was completely blind as then more people might actually vote for their preferred candidate.

Anyone else feel the same?

The result will be a Labour landslide in any case, so if there was ever a time to just vote for whoever you want it is now. Any argument about "wasted votes" is empty as it doesn't really matter if the Labour majority is 100 or 150.

I didn't mean in re to labour as it's pretty certain they will win, it's who will represent my constituency and voice more local issues. Parliament is more than just majority party vs opposition, although I do appreciate the significance of a large majority.

I'm particularly interested in lake and river quality and every extra voice on the subject can make a difference.

[hidetheelephants]

Vote for who you want to and then write to whoever wins to ask them when PR is being implemented and if not why not.