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Why Do People Attend Political Rallies? (lemmy.world)

submitted 2 weeks ago by corroded@lemmy.world to c/asklemmy@lemmy.world

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At least in this post, I'm not advocating for any particular political position; I mean for this to be a more generalized discussion.

I have never understood what prompts people to attend political rallies. None of the current US political candidates 100% align with my views, but I am very confident that I made the right choice in who I voted for. That is to say, I'd consider myself a strong supporter of [name here].

To me, it feels like attending a political rally is like attending a college lecture. You have a person giving you information, but you don't gain anything by hearing it in-person as opposed to reading it or watching a recording. If I want to learn something, it's much more comfortable for me to read and article or watch a video in the comfort of my own home. If I want to understand what a political candidate stands for, I'd much rather watch a recording of a town-hall meeting or read something she (oops) wrote rather than taking the time to drive to a rally, get packed in with a bunch of other people, and simply stand and listen.

I understand concerts. Hearing live music sounds vastly different than listening to a recording. Same with movies; most of us don't have an IMAX theater at home. When you're trying to gather information, though, what's the draw in standing outside in a crowd at listening to it in person?

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[–] jpreston2005@lemmy.world 7 points 2 weeks ago

I've only ever been to one. Been to a lot of protests, but only one political rally.

I went because the politician inspires noble actions, noble thoughts, and I wanted to hear him speak in person. I've been a supporter of his for quite a while now, and I wanted to physically show up for him just like I do metaphorically at my polling place. It wasn't really about hearing his ideas, or receiving new information from him, it was just about being present in the moment, together in a throng of people who all gathered in solidarity with what he and his candidacy represents. Like, how you don't have to worry about being embarrassed about singing your bands favorite songs out loud, when you're in a crowd of people gathered to see that band. It was there that I could enthusiastically cheer for what I believe in, what I prioritize.

The rally I'm speaking about was for none other than Bernie Sanders. He was introduced by Donald Glover, and oddly enough, while introducing him, a bird alighted upon the podium, much like what happened at another rally he did. It was a great time, and I'm glad I was there. I'll remember it for the rest of my life.