I have already lost track of how many automated political phone calls I have received this past week. You know - the calls where you answer, “Hello?” two or three times before the automated caller begins its message.

Why do they even use this method of political canvassing? Sure, it is quick and easy for the originator. I just have to wonder if there is a way for them to see if anyone has ever made any political decisions based on what their automated message says. I would even ask what percentage of people actually listen to the entire message in the first place.

Then we have all the political mailings. I don’t even want to think of the number of trees that are used to send us an endless stream of political junk mail. Does anyone read those? I sure don’t. I’m glad our local waste management company actively recycles paper products.

I also have to comment on those signs posted on every pole, fence, or billboard you see. Let’s include the people who put signs on their own front lawns as well. Does anyone actually pay attention to these things and form an opinion on how they are going to vote? By the way, why can’t those same signs be taken down just as quickly once the election is over?

What about the bumper stickers? Do they affect anyone’s opinion? I don’t go out of my way to read political bumper stickers while considering which candidate I am going to support. Do these people feel even a little foolish when their “side” loses and they have to drive around with the bumper sticker still attached, proclaiming to the world the error of their beliefs?

Don’t get me wrong - I certainly see the need and validity of informing the voting public about the candidates, propositions and measures they will be voting on. I understand the concept of name recognition. But surely there must be a better way! Here’s my idea. What if we created a website that contains all the information a voter needs in order to make well informed decisions? Perhaps selecting the top 100 issues, and requiring each candidate to publicly declare their position on each issue. For measures and propositions, have the pros and cons described by both sides. In effect, replace the already existing paper form of the voters information pamphlets, and put this information on the Internet.

I know…. wishful thinking, isn’t it?