Do you know people who vote for who they think will win?

[pstokely]

One's who let the media decide for them. Do these people also change their favorite sports teams quite frequently?

[polichick]

1. At least 80% of so-called indies vote that way imo. nt

[Mass]

2. Unfortunately yes. Some people want to vote for the winner. This validates their choices.

These are the same who follow every fad, even if the fad is stupid.

[bluestateguy]

3. Yes, my uncle

Makes him feel patriotic to be in the majority.

Although he has a standing policy of always voting for the incumbent in presidential elections. Makes him feel patriotic to support the president. Obama gets his vote next time.

[pstokely]

5. Who did he vote for in 2000?

nt

[bluestateguy]

6. Gore, and McCain in 2008

nt

[old mark]

4. I worked with someone who voted against Kerry because she didn't like

the texture of his hair.

There are so many stupids.


mark

[emulatorloo]

8. I saw his hair in person - it is very very nice. May not look good on TV though

I had a friend that was big on Kerry in the primary and then took every SwiftBoat and ClubForGrowth type ad as if it were the gospel truth.

[polichick]

9. I've seen it up close and personal when shaking hands with him - yes, very nice...

Actually I think he's even cuter in person!

[Travis_0004]

7. I would rather vote for who I think is going to loose

If you vote for the other guy, at least you have the excuse "I didn't vote for him"

[Bozita]

10. It's called the bandwagon effect, one of the classic 7 pillars of propaganda.

http://mason.gmu.edu/~amcdonal/Propaganda%20Techniques.html

Propaganda Techniques

Edward Filene helped establish the Institute of Propaganda Analysis in 1937 to educate the American public about the nature of propaganda and how to recognize propaganda techniques. Filene and his colleagues identified the seven most common "tricks of the trade" used by successful propagandists (Marlin 102-106: Propaganda Critic: Introduction). These seven techniques are called:
Name Calling
Glittering Generalities
Transfer
Testimonial
Plain Folks
Card Stacking
Band Wagon



Bandwagon: Propagandists use this technique to persuade the audience to follow the crowd. This device creates the impression of widespread support. It reinforces the human desire to be on the winning side. It also plays on feelings of loneliness and isolation. Propagandists use this technique to convince people not already on the bandwagon to join in a mass movement while simultaneously reassuring that those on or partially on should stay aboard. Bandwagon propaganda has taken on a new twist. Propagandists are now trying to convince the target audience that if they don't join in they will be left out. The implication is that if you don't jump on the bandwagon the parade will pass you by. While this is contrary to the other method, it has the same effect: getting the audience to join in with the crowd. The Institute of Propaganda Analysis suggests we ask ourselves the following questions when confronted with this technique. What is the propagandist's program? What is the evidence for and against the program? Even though others are supporting it, why should I? As with most propaganda techniques, getting more information is the best defense. When confronted with Bandwagon propaganda, consider the pros and cons before joining in.

[Taitertots]

11. Greens and leftists that vote Democratic to fight republicans

Fascists, racists, and totalitarians that vote for republicans to stop Obama.

[Curmudgeoness]

12. If you are making a comment on polls and who the hell cares

who the polls are saying is in the lead, I think the effect is more a matter of people staying home instead of voting if they think that their candidate doesn't have a chance. Fulfilling the prophesy. I don't get it, but I know this happens.