Ballot Papers

[Flonska]

Why do they not include the provision to cast a vote for "None of the Above" on ballot papers?

[ToraToraTora]

Because voting is not compulsory.

[anthro-nerd]

You can, you can 'void' your vote by putting a line through all of the options. If enough people did this, they would have to take notice.

http://www.votenone.org.uk/protest_votes_count.html

[jim360]

Even with non-compulsory voting, you can sometimes find elections with "Re-Open Nominations" (or RON) as a valid option. It doesn't exist in our system because I guess no-one saw the need for it. Either not turning up, or spoiling a ballot, would do. Also, I suppose, Re-Opening nominations in a student union election is just a matter of wasting two or three kids' time for another week, whereas in a General Election it could potentially force a by-election or two and slow the entire process of running the country down.

[chelle7272]

Yes but the option to show that the parties are not worth voting for, rather than you just can't be bothered or don't care, is an option I'd like.

[New Judge]

It's because politicians (who would have to approve such a measure) cannot in their wildest dreams envisage voters being unimpressed with all of them.

[Khandro]

4 million people spoilt their ballot papers in last week's French election, as an act of protest in the choice the system had given them. You just have to scribble on it or if you are particularly cross, write something naughty.
It isn't exactly wasted, because they have to be counted and it sends out a message.

[ichkeria]

Lol 'the system' didn't give them that choice, the electorate did!

What exactly would be the point of this? If 'none of the above' won there would ptesumqbky have to be a by-election. I can see it simply being used a negative, wrecking procedure.

[Hazi-Hammenuhoth]

What a brilliant idea! For £ 80 you can change your name by deed poll. "None Of The Above" would win by a landslide!!

[Old_Geezer]

They'd make sure that candidate was at the top of the list.