Talking politics

This presidential election seems to be one of the most talked about elections yet. From a woman and black man running for the Democratic spot and now the possibility of the first black president and woman vice president. My personal views lead me to vote Republican most of the time, so I had planned on voting for McCain this election. I was so disappointed to wake up to the news that McCain had chosen a female VP running mate :( Most people's first reactions have been that it's such a wise move on his part, because he'll win the votes of the Clinton supporters and get many of the 'soccor mom' votes. Why am I disappointed? It's a publicity stunt. He didn't choose her because of her views or because he feels she'll be a good vice president and to me, that is important.
This years election has turned into a high school popularity contest. Unfortunately, I feel far too many people aren't voting on the issues or because they feel one person will be better suited over the other. Typically that is how we vote, right? This year, many people are voting for Obama simply because he is black and McCain simply because he has a female VP running with him. I'm not saying all voters are focussing on these aspects of the candidates, but I do think more people than not are voting with those facts in mind. I already had issues with this election and the reasoning behind people's choice. Twice already I have heard from family members "I'm not voting for Obama because he's Muslim" This stems from the forward that circulated the internet earlier this year. Unfortunately, there are too many gullible people out there who believe these things and have chosen not to vote for him because of it. I think it's sad that is what our presidential elections have come down to. Voting for someone because of sex, race, or simply because they believe rumors about another candidate.
I know there is usually a lot stressed on voting because we have the right to vote. This year, I'm strongly considering not voting at all. I can't say with confidence that I like either candidate (or the independents running). I don't feel comfortable saying "I voted that guy into office", support him and agree with his policies - and I feel that is how one should vote for the leader of thier country. It's a sad day to think that this is what our presidential elections have come down to.