Why Australian Voters Find the American Electoral System Confusing and Whimsical
Despite popular belief, Australian voters are not confused by the American electoral process. Instead, we find aspects of their political campaigns and voting systems hilariously unique and occasionally bewildering. This essay delves into why the American electoral system fails to resonate with Australian voters, highlighting key differences and peculiarities.
Understanding American Voters
Australian voters find the American method of voting and the political campaigns comical rather than perplexing. What we find amusing is an instance remembered fondly by many - an Australian candidate running for political office, his name emblazoned across the side of a bus. Despite thinking he was an overly pretentious scoundrel, these types of antics aren’t uncommon in the US. In contrast, Australian political contenders prefer substance over on the streets is much more valuable than big, glorified stadium rallies. The American political system, while perhaps not as transactional as ours, is certainly not without its quirks and peculiarities.
Ancient Systems and Complicated Rhetoric
There are several elements of the American electoral system that don’t align with Australian values, especially given the rhetoric around the US being the strongest democracy. These issues include:
The Electoral College System
According to the U.S. Constitution, states can select electors who do not have to vote in accordance with the popular vote. This is jarring in a democracy where elected officials are supposed to represent the people’s will. Instead of a simple majority of votes electing the President, the process, which many find flawed, dictates that a candidate can win the presidency without winning the national popular vote.
Necessity of Voter Registration
A key issue for Australian voters is the requirement to register to vote in the U.S. Why can't all citizens, once they turn 18, automatically be registered to vote using their social security numbers or another system? This process is seen as outdated and overly bureaucratic, imposing unnecessary costs. Furthermore, ensuring a universal right to vote from an early age simplifies the electoral process and encourages civic engagement from a young age.
Gerrymandering
The practice of gerrymandering in the U.S., where electoral districts are drawn to benefit specific political parties, is another controversial aspect. Our preference would be for a non-partisan government organization to set electoral boundaries, ensuring that each electorate reflects the principle of one person, one vote. While this could dilute the representation of smaller states, the balance could be maintained by proportional representation in the Senate.
Funding of Elections
Ethical concerns arise with the funding of elections. Super PACs and other private groups can significantly influence elections. In Australia, while political donations are regulated, the potential for corruption still exists. A transparent and public funding system would mitigate these issues. Each candidate should be allocated a fixed sum for advertising and encouraged to engage directly with the electorate. This would create a more authentic and accessible political environment.
Comparative Insights
While no electoral system is perfect, reforms to fit a country's geography and culture are necessary. New Zealand’s proportional representation system and our own proportional representation in the Federal Senate are examples of systems that promote collaboration and less polarized governance. These models encourage politicians to work together, focusing on the country's common good rather than polarizing differences.
In conclusion, Australian voters find the American electoral system confusing and whimsical due to its inherent complexities and peculiarities. By examining these systems through a critical lens, we can appreciate both their strengths and weaknesses, promoting better understanding and improvement of democratic processes.