I have policy leanings, but not political leanings.
I reside in the United States, but I was born and raised abroad and have not voted in political elections for more than 10 years. I really appreciate the opportunity to vote and I would never give up my right, but I can't bring myself to go to the polls and support, first and foremost, people I don't admire or don't feel represented by. Curiously, until my early 20s I was very passionate about politics, now I just observe.
> people I don't admire or don't feel represented by
I share this sentiment and can't figure out why politicians aren't better stewards of the peoples' interest. The primary philosophy guiding me at this point is bias against incumbency, on the premise that including more citizens in the political process is worthwhile, like voting.
"I share this sentiment and can't figure out why politicians aren't better stewards of the peoples' interest."
In part, it's the nature of the job, one has to overpromise--since they are voted for something they will do, not something they did, although that may inform what they will do--and then, by definition, underdeliver. Which means first lying and then trying not to get caught, or using one of the varieties of the "things have changed" defense. Unsavory behaviors, no doubt about it.
I like to watch on YouTube some old political debates (60s, 70s, 80s) that used to take place in my country and one of the many things I noticed is that, yes, charisma and speed of thought were important, but there was substance behind the positions politicians took.
My point is not an "oh, the old days" kind of observation; back then there were many terribly incompetent or outright rogue politicians, but the quality of the median politicians was considerably better.
> I share this sentiment and can't figure out why politicians aren't better stewards of the peoples' interest.
Probably because a good steward politician is the easiest to beat with bog-standard tactics.
The closest you might find these days are politicians that their own side is always yelling at; they're likely from a secure seat and can take the blame when needed.
> I share this sentiment and can't figure out why politicians aren't better stewards of the peoples' interest.
THE major component for public involvement in politics are parties. In theory being a unit transcending election cycle they can better ensure continuity of policy. In practice, like any enterprise, the fundamental goal of parties is to remain in power, everything else being secondary.
The goal is always to get votes. Sometimes in the short term, sometimes in the long term, but it is never about policy and always about votes and subsequent power. Parties do not promote and give platform to "good politicians", but rather those who will help the party sustain power and gain more, not overthrow current lords.
If you feel represented by someone on the ballot it is simple coincidence at best and result of politics at worst. This is how politics have worked, do work and will work, by design.
