Why are we, as Americans apparently unconcerned with the state of the nation?

What? Um. Okay, there’s the this tomorrow. It’s pretty big and focuses around a lot of those issues. On both sides, the ground teams (meaning the volunteers, field offices, and other grass-roots initiatives) have been amazingly huge. We’re expecting more voters than we’ve had in any recent election. Americans are ALL ABOUT the state of the nation right now.

Bread and Circuses.

That is, cheap subsidized junk food and Reality TV.

And poor education.

Talk to some students. There’s your grassroots.

We aren’t unconcerned, we’re just easily manipulated by rich white men.

Poor education – agree with that. Also many people are only concerned with what affects them directly – more concerned with the closure of their favourite bar for example than with bigger issues.

I disagree with your premise. Case in point: Campaign for Liberty.

I concede that there ARE many grassroots/activist organizations out there who are trying to rally the public…but considering our nation’s state, it seems to be a pretty meek response in general from our fellow citizens. I think (call me a cynic) that the elections and voting are getting more attention – not because of the issues right now, but because it is simply hitting mainstream media – another thing to talk about on the networks besides American Idol, another exciting event like the Superbowl.

You’re a cynic.

Well, speaking for myself, I am very concerned. However, I won’t know what to do about that concern until after the election. It will either involve helping President Obama heal the nation in whatever way I can, or educating others as to the reasons why President McCain’s plans are a terrible idea and setting about changing minds and policies.

11/5/08: Time to turn my concern into action on behalf of OBAMA!

I was at Grant Park last night in the mass of people. I just don’t have the energy to believe that Americans are unconcerned with the state of the union today. I also have no voice. Same reason. When our president elect gained that title, people started screaming and cheering and didn’t stop for at least fifteen minutes. It was amazing, probably life changing, and absolutely all about the state of the nation.

@Empress: Oh how I envy you…what a wonderful way to spend last night. In the chat room, we all had the same reactions and I really wished we were together in person. Grant Park must have been amazing!