Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Chat Forum > The HUBB PUB
The HUBB PUB Chat forum - no useful content required!

BUT the basic rules of polite and civil conduct which everyone agreed to when signing up for the HUBB, will still apply, though moderation will be a LITTLE looser than elsewhere on the HUBB.
Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



Like Tree16Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #16  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: opelousas la
Posts: 74
Choises

In the United States, only about 40 - 45 House seats are undecided(out of 450). If the person running is an incumbent(and not in jail), he will get elected 95% of the time. This is due to gerrymandering. In the last governor's election in Louisiana where I live, there was no serious opponent to the bum who is in office(his current approval rating is 24%). As we say, you get the government you deserve. I still vote, but its due to habit rather than hope.
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Oxford UK
Posts: 2,116
As they say "it doesn't matter who you vote for, the government still gets in".
In reality, in the constituency where I live, it doesn't matter who you vote for as the Tory still gets in and has done in every election since 1910.

Even at the point where I'm about to walk down to the polling station I'm not sure who's going to get my cross in the national election. Should I go with the (inevitable) flow or make a policy led decision based on what I think is best for the country? The problem with that is there's "hardly a sheet of Bronco between them" (UK tv joke) and when I went through an on line quiz aimed at helping you work out whose policies best fit with your ideas it came out as 20% each for Conservatives, Labour, Lib-Dems, Green and UKIP. I think I might be looking for a pin to take with me.

Maybe it really doesn't matter who you vote for as the Scot Nats will be pulling the strings no matter who gets in.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Make them wait

I'm keeping my powder dry until just before 10 pm when the polling booths close; that will keep the tellers outside the polling station on their toes.
Their aim is to conduct an exit poll for the political parties - make them sweat.

Incidentally, I have a postal vote but I shall deliver it by hand this time.

Also incidentally, a spoilt ballot paper is reported to be of more interest, and angst, to the parties at the counting stations then a legit one because they all try to convince the returning officer that it is one cast for their candidate; so if you want to be noticed vote for "none of the above" or some such variation.
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by grumpy geezer View Post
If the person running is an incumbent(and not in jail), he will get elected 95% of the time. This is due to gerrymandering. In the last governor's election in Louisiana where I live, there was no serious opponent to the bum who is in office(his current approval rating is 24%). As we say, you get the government you deserve. I still vote, but its due to habit rather than hope.
It's much the same here, especially in the local elections which are also running today alongside the national election.
Very many of the local candidates are standing unopposed so it is a 100% certainty that they will be returned to their post no matter what the turnout happens to be.
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2014
Location: Bristol, UK
Posts: 380
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tim Cullis View Post
.....a massive 8% haven't yet decided.

If this holds true for the population as a whole, out of the total of 45+ million voters, 3.6 million of them will wake up tomorrow, look out of the window, and only then somehow make their mind up. Will it be the sight of a black cat crossing the road? Or an eclipse of the sun that will finally make their mind up?

I'm one of the 8% still wavering.

I have thought a lot about it - its a privilege and responsibility. 4 or 5 weeks ago I mapped out my priorities:

1. Manage the economy well
2. Don't spend what you haven't got (however worthy the cause)
3. Care for the vulnerable
4. Don't even start to think about cutting taxes until you've finished doing 3 above

No one party, in my view, represents that agenda as i would choose. I am in a 3 way marginal. The candidate i most respect is unlikely to win. The right tactical candidate for my requirements has fought a very negative campaign so i don't really want to vote for him. All in all a tough decision that i am still weighing.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
A fair and transparent election

Quote:
Originally Posted by Temporaryescapee View Post
I'm one of the 8% still wavering.

I am in a 3 way marginal. The candidate i most respect is unlikely to win. The right tactical candidate for my requirements has fought a very negative campaign so i don't really want to vote for him. All in all a tough decision that i am still weighing.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Apart from which, and just as a "for instance":
A vote in the Hebrides is worth about 5 times more than one in, say, the Isle of Wight.
About 22K voters in the north constituency have a member of parliament viz a viz the 110000 (or thereabouts) on the IoW who also have a single MP.
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 18
Quote:
Originally Posted by Walkabout View Post
Apart from which, and just as a "for instance":
A vote in the Hebrides is worth about 5 times more than one in, say, the Isle of Wight.
About 22K voters in the north constituency have a member of parliament viz a viz the 110000 (or thereabouts) on the IoW who also have a single MP.
Thats why some people believe we should have proportional representation!
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: West Yorkshire UK
Posts: 1,785
I told my MP ( Ed Balls himself no less) I wanted direct democracy. An online vote for policies not parties or people. Would you believe he didn't agree? Could it be the huge salary, expense account and job security based on getting promoted to the house of lords might sway his thinking there?

Andy
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,484
Not seen any black cats crossing the road yet today so it looks like my postal vote still stands correct
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 7 May 2015
chris's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: GOC
Posts: 3,335
Quote:
Originally Posted by chris View Post
I'm one of the alleged 8% Tim refers to. My view of the 2015 lineup is


I joined the queue at my designated polling station this afternoon and voted for the character pictured above. He wasn't actually on the official voting slip, so I had to add his name and a box, into which I put my cross. I'm intrigued to find out how many others "spoilt" their vote in my constituency.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Cornwall, in the far southwest of England, UK
Posts: 597
__________________
Right Way Round ...

Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 7 May 2015
Wildman's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: The Garden of England
Posts: 478
No longer undecided. No longer a floating voter. I am now, decided. I just hope I'm not sunk.
__________________
Paul "Every county of England, every country of Europe and every (part of every inhabited) continent of the Earth" 94% done! What's left? Central America, East, Central and West Africa, Australia & New Zealand
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
Quote:
Originally Posted by Walkabout View Post
Incidentally, I have a postal vote but I shall deliver it by hand this time.
Vote cast.
A vote for every party on the paper except for one of them.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Matty Gofun View Post
Thats why some people believe we should have proportional representation!
Exactly so.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Threewheelbonnie View Post
I told my MP ( Ed Balls himself no less) I wanted direct democracy. An online vote for policies not parties or people. Would you believe he didn't agree? Could it be the huge salary, expense account and job security based on getting promoted to the house of lords might sway his thinking there?

Andy
The turkeys are never going to vote for Christmas to come early.

I once asked a lawyer acquaintance of mine why something or other was progressing so slowly (I forget what the issue was).
His reply: there is no money to be made from providing a quick answer.
I guess politicians follow a similar line of reasoning; actually many of them are lawyers aren't they? Maybe not the Lord Prescott.

Enough; the deed is done for another 5 years, or maybe not?
__________________
Dave
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 7 May 2015
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 1,484
Did the cat win?
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 7 May 2015
chris's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: GOC
Posts: 3,335
The Channel4 election event, featuring Paxman, is great viewing.
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Million Dollar Question - The tent for 1 thecivvie Camping Equipment and all Clothing 37 16 Apr 2015 19:46

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

25 years of HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Ecuador June 13-15
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Date TBC
Ecuador: Date TBC
Romania: Date TBC
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 13:12.