3 things I like about British politics
First, party conventions are really conventions. In the states, conventions are really just advertisements for the presidential candidate. Here, the party debates and determines their platform. Imagine that! I read in the Guardian today that Tony Blair is really taking heat from the Labour Party at the convention that is currently underway. In the states, it would be heretical for a Republican to tell Bush that they weren't happy with him or for a Democrate to tell Clinton that they weren't happy with him.
Second, it's illegal for candidate to advertise. This is nice b/c we don't have to endure the commercials, billboards, and yard signs. Also, you don't have to be rich or have rich friends to run for office. It makes the democracy much more open and democratic.
Third, everyone gets something in the mail requiring them to register to vote. It seems like such a simple solution. Politicians in the states always talk about getting people to register to vote. Why not send everyone a form to get them to register? Maybe politicians don't want everyone to vote...?
I hope that someone will comment on this...