As the election draws near, I see the polarization of the electorate. Republicans and Democrats each play to their parties; making certain those loyal followers will show up at the polls and be active participants in this upcoming battle royale. However, this polarization brings to the forefront a new superpower: the undecided.
We must pay attention to the undecided, this 15 percent who will not make up their minds until they are in the voting booth.
The dance being performed by the Democrats and the Republicans is very complex. They must appeal to their constituents, yet not alienate the middle to such a degree that they have no chance of swaying them in the end. Too far to one side, and they loose, too close to the center and they run the risk of enraging their base.
How will they play to the undecided? Polling and analyzing will do nothing because the 15 percent will wait until the bitter end to make up their minds. It must be driving both political parties crazy
I applaud the 15 percent. It is they who will keep this election moving, keep the issues at least partially at the forefront, and the contenders on point. Not knowing allows us to appreciate the beauty of the process.
The undecided have the power in this election; and it is unbelievably exciting!
Gene Burns
