The Election

Cause this post is even more overdue. I'm sure the elections are madness in the US, or at least that's what the New York Times tells me, but here they matter too. A surprising amount. I've talked with every Chilean I know about them, literally. And they don't bring them up because they know I'm American, just because. (Funny sidenote: at parties or gatherings I go with my host family too, no one asks who I am. They just figure I'm a random friend, who's quiet, but Chilean)

What I've learned:
1. It is embarrassing how little we know about world politics. Not only can most Chileans tell us the names of the candidates and their party, but last week I listened to a debate about the electoral college, and how they thought it was undemocratic. Everyone kept asking me why we weren't outraged by it. I seriously doubt if the average person in the US can explain what the electoral college is. Although again, this year may change everything.

2. Sound bites-the worst ones are always translated-such as Arnold and his comments that Obama needed to do some squats and but some meat on his legs (and policies)
Related: my host mom asked me what I thought about Sarah Palin running in 2012 before I even knew.

3. Our situation affects so much more than ourselves. The entire world is looking at this election as make or break. Most people couldn't tell you about the specifics of either candidates positions on any issue, but they can tell you McCain is Bush and if Obama doesn't win then they are worried. Just look at the financial situation. When I got here 1 usd was worth 475 chilean pesos. But all of Latin and South America have put their financial trust in the dollar, if it falls they fall. In a month, the dollar has gained 200 more pesos and is sitting steady at 670 pesos.

4. A low voter turnout is an atonishing idea. Everyone here votes on the same day-even if the election is local. So last Sunday, every Chilean was showing off their newly inked thumbprint, it was a source of pride. Even the president showed off hers. Another sidenote: I read on Fox News ( I know-i was going against the grain and expanding my horizons) that the expected voter turnout is projected at 80%? That is ridic high. But true? Anyone?

But the system works a little different. No one is obligated to vote, but once you register you have to vote, and you vote in the same district you're entire life. And absolutely nothing, other than the buses and other forms of transportation is open. Even the mall closes. That's serious. :) Although it helps it's on a Sunday-who wants to work anyways?

I've lost all focus. Needless to say I think I would be ashamed to tell people I wasn't voting. Which is why I'm triple checking and faxing my ballot (after I sent one in and a special write-in for AZ) tomorrow. Speaking of which won't it be amazing if my vote ended up counting and making a real difference. Obama did buy advertisement time in Az. The whole world's a changing.

Lots of love, I want to hear all your voices rather than just update a blog so skype me! and give me your cell phone number if I don't already have it. Technology has become cheap!