I agree, it's ridiculous how many people I talk to that say they're going to vote Obama or McCain and when I ask why...they haven't got an f-ing clue. So how about this...over simplified I know, but as a starting point...
The candidates are presented with 10 key issues and asked to select a position. Those positions are recorded and held for election day.
Voters go in and vote a 'position' on the 10 key issues and finally, their party affiliation.
Winner: Candidate who's positions most closely reflects the election results with canditate's party being the tie breaker.
As I said...over simplified, yes...but at least voters wouldn't be voting a popularity contest but rather their actual views (or at least what they thought at the time).
The candidates are presented with 10 key issues and asked to select a position. Those positions are recorded and held for election day.
Voters go in and vote a 'position' on the 10 key issues and finally, their party affiliation.
Winner: Candidate who's positions most closely reflects the election results with canditate's party being the tie breaker.
As I said...over simplified, yes...but at least voters wouldn't be voting a popularity contest but rather their actual views (or at least what they thought at the time).