Electioneering

I've been feeling highly politicised of late, taking an interest in many current affairs. I realise though, that to a certain extent, I'm alone in this interest. Often over the years, when discussing politics with family and friends (that eternal taboo), I'm met with heated debate commonly ending in a statement along the lines of, "Well, none of it makes any difference anyway. They're all the same."

I sympathise with this view. In a world where the media focuses our attention on political scandal in favour of real policy issues and with political parties moving ever closer to a common, central grounding, experiencing a sense of helplessness from time to time is somewhat to be expected. However, to disengage from mainstream politics completely as a result, will only help to maintain the status quo, or worse, increases votes for the BNP!

Contrary to this belief, there are quite a few things happening in the political world which I'd argue actually are making a difference, that are a pretty "big fucking deal"!

President Obama delivered on one of his major election campaign promises in recent weeks. The American people, having voted for 'change', now have a truly significant amendment to their law that ensures everybody has a right to healthcare. A change that effects the lives of all US citizens.

"Well that's in the US, it doesn't affect me." I hear you say. Okay, well how about this? Currently, members of the RMT, British Airways Cabin Crew and staff at the Richmond Upon Thames College in Twickenham (where my good friend Gareth Watts is a lecturer) are all fighting, through their respective unions, to protect their livelihoods and the standards of service and education they are employed to provide.

Active participation, involving political representatives that could make a big difference to many peoples lives. Not just those who's jobs are at risk but the students, commuters and the jetsets too.

"So what?" - Well, if that isn't enough to convince you, then here's my parting shot. Come May, the UK will be on the eve of a General Election, most likely to be the closest run thing since a 'Heat' magazine poll on who's the more annoying Cheeky Girl.

The possibility of a hung parliament is increasingly likely but, with the polls showing the Conservative lead diminishing rapidly and with the country in its most delicate economic state for many a year, this could be the most vital vote cast in recent memory.

I realise that it's contrary to popular opinion for me to say I find this all fascinating and I'm not saying you have to agree with anything I say here, you don't even have to take an interest, just don't tell me that it doesn't make a difference!