I write this message to you because yet again, on the eve of the election, we seem to be encountering people; communicating their opinion about politics, performance of pollies and other pontification.
I include myself in that list.
For three years, members of our electorate don't seem fazed by any of this, content to let the status quo be.
Yet, now we see discussions are being had about policies and the future of our region (as well as our nation).
On the one hand, it makes sense.
Election time is the only time you can change opinions, and influence other people, and an opportunity to reflect and reassess.
On the other hand, however, my opinion is that apathy and disengagement on a molecular level better explains these phenomena.
We do not seem to care about our representatives' performance for the last three years because (misguided as it might be) status quo suits us (and definitely them).
Status quo only suits people who have things, it is the have-nots that suffer due to things not changing for the better.
Misunderstanding political stances as anything other than this is downright dangerous, irresponsible and unhealthy for a democracy — just look at our friends across the ocean.
We should keep that in mind when we vote, as we happen to be one of the safest seats in the country.
Ask the question, "who does doing something (or not doing so) benefit?" when assessing any political party's policies.
Don't let comfort with the status quo guide you.
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