Actually I believe that we have some REAL choices in the present elections. In two years we will vote to elect a person that may or may not end the war in Iraq, cut or raise taxes, appoint members to the Supreme Court, members who will make decisions on abortion, gun control, immigration and education issues. This year locally we will choose who will run the county offices for 4 more years. They will be resposible for the county's law enforcement and tax collection. State wide we will choose our governor and congressional representative. These also will detrmine how our money is spent. From reading these forums I have an idea of what concerns you, hellicopters and leaf burning for the most part. However if you would get a firm committment from one or more candidates then maybe your concerns could be addressed. I also notice your objection to the war in Iraq. The election of our senators and represenatives plus the president will have lasting impact on deciding the outcome of this. So I contend that there are definately some REAL issues at stake. If I vote but some of my desires still aren't met, I, at least, have bitching rights. But if I sit at home, complain that 1 vote won't matter and refuse to vote then I get what I deserve.