With all the problems, why do so many Fla voters vote absentee?

[Jersey Devil]

For convenience? Here in NJ you cannot vote absentee unless you certify you will be out of state on election day or you have a disability that prevents you from getting to the polls.

Of course I am furious about all the "lost" absentee ballots in Florida, but why weren't all these people encouraged to vote in person?

[bullimiami]

1. they changed Florida law before the 2000 election

anyone can vote absentee now.
the repugs used it to advantage in 2000.

pro
increases voter participation. leaves a paper trail

con
they have to count it.

any of these locals that dont get their absentee ballot can still go vote in person.

are the touch screen machines better? thats our choice in miami. the repugs were telling their people to vote absentee because the touch screen machines they bought were not reliable.

[Upfront]

2. Old People

Seems to be lots of older types in Florida who know they can't stand in line for a long time to vote. So they try to vote absentee.

[LiberalEsto]

3. Picture tens of thousands of half-blind 80-year-olds driving

and trying to find the polls. Picture the pileups, the gridlock, the cars smashing into voting places.

Need I say more?

[Bandit]

4. Do you recall all of the charges of voter intimidation there in 2000

Vote By Mail is the only sensible alternative. Oregon has been doing it for years and they love their system. They have no worries about finding a parking spot or standing in long lines or voter intimidation or any poll place confrontations plus they have the opportunity to really examine their ballot in the privacy of their home and understand all the issues on the ballot and be able to investigate people issues whatever in a manner that is conducive to intelligent voting. Why the entire country does not do this is to me mind boggling.

[Weembo]

5. So their crazed spouses can fill in their form

Make them sign it, and mail it for them. It's part of the "obedient spouse" philosophy.