For the first time in my life, I really don't know who I'll vote for

[Hibbyradge]

I know there's a General Election thread, but this is a different angle altogether.

Politics in Scotland has (have?) changed.

I can't imagine that I'd ever vote for the Eton posh boys, UKIP or anyone further right but I don't know who's getting my cross in May.

I used to vote Liberal in GE's to keep Baron Selkirk of Douglas out, but I've no time for that mob either now.

I voted Yes in the referendum and now with Salmond in the background, the SNP appeals more than I thought possible.

I wish Milliband was more convincing.

Labour or SNP, I guess.

[CropleyWasGod]

It feels to me like there are 2 different campaigns going on.

The Scottish dimension seems to be a hangover of the IndyRef, whilst in the South they're talking about issues which are devolved.

All very ho hum so far.

Greens for me.....I think :)

[Moulin Yarns]

Greens for me.....I think :)

:thumbsup:

[Beefster]

If it was a Scottish election, I would definitely be voting for Ruth Davidson and co. It's not though and I can't/won't vote for the UK Tories. Aside from that, in East Lothian, a GE vote for anyone other than Labour or the SNP is a waste of time. Tactical vote for me this time.

[Hibs Class]

Likeliest outcome for me is either not turning up at the polling station or spoiling my paper. Given that I have voted in every single election, at whatever level, since I turned 18 I find it quite sad that every party has managed to alienate me so completely.

[steakbake]

Funnily enough, I have no idea who to vote for this time round either. I would normally be a stick on Green, but I really don't rate the guy standing in my constituency.

I think I may end up voting SNP.

[CropleyWasGod]

Likeliest outcome for me is either not turning up at the polling station or spoiling my paper. Given that I have voted in every single election, at whatever level, since I turned 18 I find it quite sad that every party has managed to alienate me so completely.
Spoil :)

Make the effort and make your statement.

[grunt]

Spoil :)

Make the effort and make your statement.Surprised to see you say this, even in jest.
So what's the argument for spoiling your paper, as opposed to just abstaining?

[Peevemor]

Surprised to see you say this, even in jest.
So what's the argument for spoiling your paper, as opposed to just abstaining?

Spoiling the paper shows that you could at least be bothered to go and vote.

There's talk of introducing a "none of the above" option across here which makes sense to me.

[CropleyWasGod]

Surprised to see you say this, even in jest.
So what's the argument for spoiling your paper, as opposed to just abstaining?

It's not a big thing for me, TBH, was really a throwaway line.

It's an argument I use when people say "can't be bothered" or "don't like politicians" etc etc. That kind of attitude annoys me.... my argument is that going into the polling station and spoiling the paper is a political statement in itself.

For those, though, who have properly considered the choices and consider that there is no choice to make.... yep, abstaining is entirely appropriate.

Sometimes, though, I think it would be nice to have a box on the ballot paper that said "none of the above".

[JeMeSouviens]

Confession time - I voted Lib Dem in 2010. :rolleyes: Every UK GE before that back to 92 I voted Labour. I've always supported Scottish independence but it seemed a far off prospect before last year and I've never lived somewhere the SNP stood a chance before. Post coalition I would never vote for the LDs again, post-referendum it will take something extraordinary to make me vote Labour. Happily there's no need for a tactical vote for me this time, so SNP is a clear choice.

[Hibrandenburg]

You should all take advantage of your democratic right to vote or at least destroy your ballot paper. I've now had that right removed from me and find myself locked out of the democratic process. I now can't vote in a GE either here in Germany or in my country of birth. An absolutely astonishing situation in 2015.

[Greentinted]

Oddly (in terms of the OP), for the first time in my life I really do know who I'll be voting for. :saltireflag

[marinello59]

Strangely I have no doubts about who I will be voting for this time around compared to the last couple of General Elections. My mind is already made up which means I don't have to listen to the baloney coming out of the politicians mouths for the next month. :greengrin

[Pretty Boy]

SNP for me.

Not sure of their chances in my constituency (Edinburgh North and Leith). Labours majority is just over 1000 but the Lib Dems were second last time, Tories 3rd and the SNP a distant 4th. Suppose it depends what happens to the Lib Dem vote and how the Labour vote holds up.

[JeMeSouviens]

SNP for me.

Not sure of their chances in my constituency (Edinburgh North and Leith). Labours majority is just over 1000 but the Lib Dems were second last time, Tories 3rd and the SNP a distant 4th. Suppose it depends what happens to the Lib Dem vote and how the Labour vote holds up.

http://www.electoralcalculus.co.uk/conlist_scot.html#EdinburghNorthandLeith

[overdrive]

If it was a Scottish election, I would definitely be voting for Ruth Davidson and co. It's not though and I can't/won't vote for the UK Tories. Aside from that, in East Lothian, a GE vote for anyone other than Labour or the SNP is a waste of time. Tactical vote for me this time.

Pretty much the position I'm in. I like the Conservatives under Davidson but won't vote for the UK Conservatives. Will probably vote Labour. I would actually consider UKIP as I probably would say my views are right of centre and I think they did get an unfair stereotype for a while but they have some dafties in their party and the way Farage gives a veiled defence of them turns me off the party.

[Hibbyradge]

http://www.electoralcalculus.co.uk/conlist_scot.html#EdinburghNorthandLeith

That's very interesting. I've never seen it before.

Where does the data come from and who commissions it?

[JeMeSouviens]

That's very interesting. I've never seen it before.

Where does the data come from and who commissions it?

They use publically published opinion poll data and apply their own modelling (explained at http://www.electoralcalculus.co.uk/newmodel.html )

[RyeSloan]

That's very interesting. I've never seen it before. Where does the data come from and who commissions it?

Amazing the increase predicted for the SNP....it would appear that a huge percentage of Labour voters are predicted to defect to the SNP.

Personally I find that hard to believe but maybe I'm just too used to Scotland just voting Labour no matter what.

Doesn't take much for me to work out why no one would vote for Miliband but I also don't quite understand what alternative the SNP is offering that is so attractive to the huge numbers that voted Labour last time out or is it their awkward Yes vote positioning that has harpooned them?

Either way if the polls are right and Labour is smashed by the SNP then it will be a truly historical election in that sense at least.

[DaveF]

Amazing the increase predicted for the SNP....it would appear that a huge percentage of Labour voters are predicted to defect to the SNP.

Personally I find that hard to believe but maybe I'm just too used to Scotland just voting Labour no matter what.

Doesn't take much for me to work out why no one would vote for Miliband but I also don't quite understand what alternative the SNP is offering that is so attractive to the huge numbers that voted Labour last time out or is it their awkward Yes vote positioning that has harpooned them?

Either way if the polls are right and Labour is smashed by the SNP then it will be a truly historical election in that sense at least.

That's where I'm at too. I'd be stunned if the SNP capture 30+ seats but they'll be getting my Livingston vote so you never know.

[woodythehibee]

SNP for me.

Not sure of their chances in my constituency (Edinburgh North and Leith). Labours majority is just over 1000 but the Lib Dems were second last time, Tories 3rd and the SNP a distant 4th. Suppose it depends what happens to the Lib Dem vote and how the Labour vote holds up.
I did some campaigning during the referendum in this area. Overwhelming support for Yes was my recollection and I would expect this to be reflected in May by Edinburgh North & Leith returning an SNP MP. I hope so anyways!

[Judas Iscariot]

2 SNP votes from my household

[Pete]

I'm not sure myself and I would never ordinarily dream of telling anyone who to vote for as I'm not really a political animal.

However, I am begging those in Ian Murray's constituency to please do all they can to get rid of him. This also applies to anyone else who has one of these guffawing, smug Jambo types as their MP.

[GlesgaeHibby]

http://www.electoralcalculus.co.uk/conlist_scot.html#EdinburghNorthandLeith

Absolutely fascinating reading. The Lib Dem vote collapsing to less than 1% in so many constituencies. Quite interestingly the Tory Vote isn't budging at all really across the vast majority of constituencies. Seems that a lot of the Lib Dem votes, and many Labour votes are headed to the SNP.

[Hibbyradge]

Amazing the increase predicted for the SNP....it would appear that a huge percentage of Labour voters are predicted to defect to the SNP.

Personally I find that hard to believe but maybe I'm just too used to Scotland just voting Labour no matter what.



There are a number of factors coming into play, imo.

The SNP has new found credibility. They've made a very decent fist of being in power in Scotland and, unlike the Labour Party, they are not perceived as being as right wing as the Tories.

The SNP also gained a lot of respect and support during the referendum.

I think to a great extent, people in Scotland have felt compelled to vote for Labour, because they've been the only real opposition to the hated Tories. Personally, I haven't voted Labour since 1992 when I lived in Edinburgh Central. Since then, in Edinburgh West, I've voted tactically to keep the Tories out.

This time, SNP MPs will perform that role just as adequately as Scottish Labour MPs so there's 2 benefits for the price of one.

[overdrive]

I did some campaigning during the referendum in this area. Overwhelming support for Yes was my recollection and I would expect this to be reflected in May by Edinburgh North & Leith returning an SNP MP. I hope so anyways!

No it wasn't. 60-40 in favour of "No" in the eventual result.

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/download/downloads/id/3976/analysis_of_voting_totals_in_the_scottish_independ ence_referendum_for_the_city_of_edinburgh_area.pdf

It was "No" all round in Edinburgh.

[Phil D. Rolls]

I was going to back SNP, but after their candidate for Edinburgh West cut me up at the lights on Clermiston Road at Queensferry Road - I'm having second thoughts.

[DaveF]

No it wasn't. 60-40 in favour of "No" in the eventual result.

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/download/downloads/id/3976/analysis_of_voting_totals_in_the_scottish_independ ence_referendum_for_the_city_of_edinburgh_area.pdf

It was "No" all round in Edinburgh.

Maybe Woody only knocked on doors with YES posters in the window :greengrin

[CB_NO3]

Maybe a poll would be good? Would normally vote Labour but its SNP for me this time. My ideal scenario would be Labour having about 285 seats and doing a deal with the SNP to use their 50 or so to take a majority. I doubt Miliband will have much choice in doing a deal with the SNP.

[The_Exile]

Greens for me although considering the tactical SNP vote.

[lord bunberry]

No it wasn't. 60-40 in favour of "No" in the eventual result.

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/download/downloads/id/3976/analysis_of_voting_totals_in_the_scottish_independ ence_referendum_for_the_city_of_edinburgh_area.pdf

It was "No" all round in Edinburgh.
I would be very surprised if every area in Edinburgh voted 60/40 in favour of no. There will have been certain areas that voted in favour of yes and areas that were almost all no voters.

[Hibbyradge]

I was going to back SNP, but after their candidate for Edinburgh West cut me up at the lights on Clermiston Road at Queensferry Road - I'm having second thoughts.

:thumbsup:

Now that's more like it. Cutting edge, hard nosed politics in action.

A man without principles and will is like a ship without compass; it changes direction with every change of wind.

[Phil D. Rolls]

:thumbsup:

Now that's more like it. Cutting edge, hard nosed politics in action.

A man without principles and will is like a ship without compass; it changes direction with every change of wind.

Ah...you've seen her driving as well?

:hmmm:

[Hibbyradge]

Ah...you've seen her driving as well?

:hmmm:

:hilarious

I'm still most likely to vote for her.

“I would rather be an opportunist and float than go to the bottom with my principles around my neck.”

[Sir David Gray]

Won't be voting SNP, Labour, Liberal Democrats or the Greens.

UKIP or Conservative for me, although it's fairly certain that Labour will win comfortably in my constituency.

[woodythehibee]

Maybe Woody only knocked on doors with YES posters in the window :greengrin


No it wasn't. 60-40 in favour of "No" in the eventual result.

http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/download/downloads/id/3976/analysis_of_voting_totals_in_the_scottish_independ ence_referendum_for_the_city_of_edinburgh_area.pdf

It was "No" all round in Edinburgh.
I should have specified that I was talking about the Leith area only :agree:

[Colr]

Surprised to see you say this, even in jest.
So what's the argument for spoiling your paper, as opposed to just abstaining?

Spoilt papers get counted. If you abstain Russell Brand will claim it as a vote for him!

[alnewhaven]

Anybody had issues registering to vote this time? Had to fill in a form separately as my partner as householder was no longer responsible for stating who lived here. Then received a request for additional I/d which I ignored.
Thought no more about it but the same issue was highlighted by an msp so thought I'd check if I was on the electoral roll. Going online I put my details through and a few weeks later received confirmation that I'd been added.

[Phil D. Rolls]

Amazing the increase predicted for the SNP....it would appear that a huge percentage of Labour voters are predicted to defect to the SNP.

Personally I find that hard to believe but maybe I'm just too used to Scotland just voting Labour no matter what.

Doesn't take much for me to work out why no one would vote for Miliband but I also don't quite understand what alternative the SNP is offering that is so attractive to the huge numbers that voted Labour last time out or is it their awkward Yes vote positioning that has harpooned them?

Either way if the polls are right and Labour is smashed by the SNP then it will be a truly historical election in that sense at least.

I can only speak for myself. I used to vote Labour, shied away from them at the Holyrood elections as they were ineffective and didn't seem interested - being told we could only live in the Best Small Country in the world kind of showed a lack of ambition for me.

I hadn't deserted them in the UK until the referendum. Their negative tactics seemed to show to me a contempt for the Scottish electorate. Whether she meant or not, Johann Lamont saying Scots are not genetically programmed to make their own decisions, summed it up.

In the referendum they came across as self serving and patronising - but mostly clueless. On the whole their rhetoric is still based on factory workers running out of the gates, a pint and a nip and mum at home putting the tea on the table.

They live in the past, and seem to be keen to keep everybody else in the past. They'll not be getting my vote again.

[BroxburnHibee]

I can only speak for myself. I used to vote Labour, shied away from them at the Holyrood elections as they were ineffective and didn't seem interested - being told we could only live in the Best Small Country in the world kind of showed a lack of ambition for me.

I hadn't deserted them in the UK until the referendum. Their negative tactics seemed to show to me a contempt for the Scottish electorate. Whether she meant or not, Johann Lamont saying Scots are not genetically programmed to make their own decisions, summed it up.

In the referendum they came across as self serving and patronising - but mostly clueless. On the whole their rhetoric is still based on factory workers running out of the gates, a pint and a nip and mum at home putting the tea on the table.

They live in the past, and seem to be keen to keep everybody else in the past. They'll not be getting my vote again.

My thoughts exactly.

[Phil D. Rolls]

My thoughts exactly.

Inverted snobbery like this sums up where they want to be.

http://wingsoverscotland.com/woman-buys-thing-with-own-money/

It sums up the "Rt. Honorable Member for Lidl". approach. The very thought that somebody would want to buy a luxury item like this instead of blowing it on a fortnight in Benidorm. They'll be drinking Cappuccino coffees next!

[McD]

Feeling completely apathetic about it, don't trust any of the parties to do anything that isn't completely self serving for themselves, struggle to see any MPs who are seriously interested in running the country to improve it as opposed to being on a power trip with an expense account (I'm sure there are some).

[heretoday]

It's all mixed up. I used to vote Labour like a robot and even gave money to the party in the hope that one day they would come up with a leader and a manifesto that meant something. But no more.

Despite voting No in the referendum - I'm a federalist rather than a separatist - I reckon Sturgeon is the only politician who is giving it straight and I like her idea of the SNP causing a bit of mischief down in Westminster which is an outdated gentleman's club.

So it's looking like SNP for me.

[Hibbyradge]

I can only speak for myself. I used to vote Labour, shied away from them at the Holyrood elections as they were ineffective and didn't seem interested - being told we could only live in the Best Small Country in the world kind of showed a lack of ambition for me.

I hadn't deserted them in the UK until the referendum. Their negative tactics seemed to show to me a contempt for the Scottish electorate. Whether she meant or not, Johann Lamont saying Scots are not genetically programmed to make their own decisions, summed it up.

In the referendum they came across as self serving and patronising - but mostly clueless. On the whole their rhetoric is still based on factory workers running out of the gates, a pint and a nip and mum at home putting the tea on the table.

They live in the past, and seem to be keen to keep everybody else in the past. They'll not be getting my vote again.

I'd change your last line to "I'm not sure if they'll ever get my vote again", but apart from that, you've pretty much nailed it there.

I still want Labour to win nationally, but a coalition (or arrangement) with the SNP will probably do for me.

[Stranraer]

If the Greens stood in my constituency I would happily vote for them - or the SSP based on their republicanism but the SNP are the only pro-indy party on the go which means I'll vote for them.

[Moulin Yarns]

If the Greens stood in my constituency I would happily vote for them - or the SSP based on their republicanism but the SNP are the only pro-indy party on the go which means I'll vote for them.


I think, based on what was posted on here during the referendum, a few people are thinking along similar lines. I do have a Scottish Green Party Candidate, although SNP should win the seat comfortably.

[overdrive]

I would be very surprised if every area in Edinburgh voted 60/40 in favour of no. There will have been certain areas that voted in favour of yes and areas that were almost all no voters.

I didn't say every area voted 60/40 'No'. Every constituency in Edinburgh delivered a 'No' vote. The link in my previous post shows the split.

[Bristolhibby]

Live in Chippenham in Wiltshire. It is a straight race between Tories and Lib Dems.

I have voted Lib Dem since I was 18 in the General Elections. Now I have a dilemma. Voting for them would give some tacit approval to the coalition, however voting for who I feel more aligned to, Greens, would mean I am extending the chance of returning a Tory. My old man is similarly torn, he is more beligerant and simply cannot forgive the Lib Dems.

I however believe that as spineless as they have been, they have dulled the effect of a Government with a full blown Tory majority. It is that that I fear, so I am giving strong consideration to going tactical and voting Lib Dem.

Just wish the GE had PR across the UK. FPTP is broken, one of its strong reasons was that it gave a strong government, now with a certainty of a coalition or some sort of case by case alliance going to happen, it would be ripe to go for PR and truly get some sort of democracy back. The Scottish system IMO is the best way to go, with an elected second chamber (banish the Lords).

J

[Moulin Yarns]

Live in Chippenham in Wiltshire. It is a straight race between Tories and Lib Dems.

I have voted Lib Dem since I was 18 in the General Elections. Now I have a dilemma. Voting for them would give some tacit approval to the coalition, however voting for who I feel more aligned to, Greens, would mean I am extending the chance of returning a Tory. My old man is similarly torn, he is more beligerant and simply cannot forgive the Lib Dems.

I however believe that as spineless as they have been, they have dulled the effect of a Government with a full blown Tory majority. It is that that I fear, so I am giving strong consideration to going tactical and voting Lib Dem.

Just wish the GE had PR across the UK. FPTP is broken, one of its strong reasons was that it gave a strong government, now with a certainty of a coalition or some sort of case by case alliance going to happen, it would be ripe to go for PR and truly get some sort of democracy back. The Scottish system IMO is the best way to go, with an elected second chamber (banish the Lords).

J

Green party in Scotland has pr I'm their manifesto

[Hibbyradge]

Live in Chippenham in Wiltshire. It is a straight race between Tories and Lib Dems.

I have voted Lib Dem since I was 18 in the General Elections. Now I have a dilemma. Voting for them would give some tacit approval to the coalition, however voting for who I feel more aligned to, Greens, would mean I am extending the chance of returning a Tory. My old man is similarly torn, he is more beligerant and simply cannot forgive the Lib Dems.

I however believe that as spineless as they have been, they have dulled the effect of a Government with a full blown Tory majority. It is that that I fear, so I am giving strong consideration to going tactical and voting Lib Dem.

Just wish the GE had PR across the UK. FPTP is broken, one of its strong reasons was that it gave a strong government, now with a certainty of a coalition or some sort of case by case alliance going to happen, it would be ripe to go for PR and truly get some sort of democracy back. The Scottish system IMO is the best way to go, with an elected second chamber (banish the Lords).

J

Like you, and for similar reasons, I've voted Lib Democrats for years.

However, this year it looks like it's going to be a straight fight between the Lib Dens and the SNP in my constituency. If that's the case, I'll be voting SNP.

If it's between the LDs and the Tories, I'll vote LD.

I'm angry at the Liberals for propping the Tories up and supporting their policies. However, there's no point punishing them for it if my actions could, in effect, have an even worse outcome.

Your instincts are good. Vote tactically.

[judas]

Maybe a poll would be good? Would normally vote Labour but its SNP for me this time. My ideal scenario would be Labour having about 285 seats and doing a deal with the SNP to use their 50 or so to take a majority. I doubt Miliband will have much choice in doing a deal with the SNP.

I will also support SNP on this occasion (a first for me).

But contrary to press reports, I think the party will struggle to reach 20 seats. In fact I am predicting only 15 seats.

Talk of 50 seats is utterly absurd. To achieve that, the SNP would have to smash virtually every general election record. Wikipedias General Election Records page, would be rewritten.

I think the 50 seat tosh came via Lord Ashcroft (though, to be fair to the good tax paying guy, I think his comments were spun somewhat by the media)

[Colr]

I will also support SNP on this occasion (a first for me).

But contrary to press reports, I think the party will struggle to reach 20 seats. In fact I am predicting only 15 seats.

Talk of 50 seats is utterly absurd. To achieve that, the SNP would have to smash virtually every general election record. Wikipedias General Election Records page, would be rewritten.

I think the 50 seat tosh came via Lord Ashcroft (though, to be fair to the good tax paying guy, I think his comments were spun somewhat by the media)

If everyone who voted yes voted SNP, it must grnerate one hell of a swing away from labour

[Moulin Yarns]

If everyone who voted yes voted SNP, it must grnerate one hell of a swing away from labour

It has to be remembered, the Yes campaign was more than the SNP. I live in an SNP area, with Tory second, but I support Green policies.

[snooky]

It has to be remembered, the Yes campaign was more than the SNP. I live in an SNP area, with Tory second, but I support Green policies.

I'm sure that there were quite a number of people who voted Yes but are not necessarily SNP voters.
In the same way, I know of one SNP sympathiser who voted No because they thought we weren't yet ready for independence.

[Onceinawhile]

Wanted to vote green, but I don't think there's a candidate in my constituency. If not I'll vote SNP. As they're the only other anti trident party.

[Hibby Bairn]

:hilarious

I'm still most likely to vote for her.

“I would rather be an opportunist and float than go to the bottom with my principles around my neck.”

I'm in Edinburgh West. Who is the SNP candidate. Thought Mikey Stewart was up for the gig?

[liamh2202]

I also have no clue who I'm voting for. All I know is it won't be snp due to their stance on trident

[JohnStephens91]

I live in the most marginal constituency in Edinburgh, only 316 votes (0.7% of the people who voted) separated Labour and Liberal Democrats. I almost exclusively vote for the Liberal Democrats, I feel they are the Party with the fairest set of manifesto promises and tow the line between being left and right wing in a good manner. I pretty much agree with a majority of what they propose, so I will vote for them again, but I feel they will struggle to usurp Ian Murray.

The only time I have not voted Lib Dem was when I voted Conservative as my first choice in the Local Council elections, Lib Dems were second, I just felt that the councillor for my ward, Cameron Rose, shows a genuine interest for the area, which I feel is incredibly important in local politics.

The Lib Dems may struggle, I think there will be an increase in the vote for the SNP in Edinburgh South, plus the candidate for the last two elections, Fred Mackintosh, has stepped aside and it is now up to Pramod Subbaraman to fill the void, and he is less familiar with the folk in this constituency. I feel it will be another Labour win, with a bigger margin of victory, and the SNP will overtake Conservatives into third place in Edinburgh South.

For anyone struggling with who they feel they should vote for, this short quiz may be of use and it allows you to see which Party your answers best match up with: https://uk.isidewith.com/political-quiz

[GlesgaeHibby]

I live in the most marginal constituency in Edinburgh, only 316 votes (0.7% of the people who voted) separated Labour and Liberal Democrats. I almost exclusively vote for the Liberal Democrats, I feel they are the Party with the fairest set of manifesto promises and tow the line between being left and right wing in a good manner. I pretty much agree with a majority of what they propose, so I will vote for them again, but I feel they will struggle to usurp Ian Murray.

The only time I have not voted Lib Dem was when I voted Conservative as my first choice in the Local Council elections, Lib Dems were second, I just felt that the councillor for my ward, Cameron Rose, shows a genuine interest for the area, which I feel is incredibly important in local politics.

The Lib Dems may struggle, I think there will be an increase in the vote for the SNP in Edinburgh South, plus the candidate for the last two elections, Fred Mackintosh, has stepped aside and it is now up to Pramod Subbaraman to fill the void, and he is less familiar with the folk in this constituency. I feel it will be another Labour win, with a bigger margin of victory, and the SNP will overtake Conservatives into third place in Edinburgh South.

For anyone struggling with who they feel they should vote for, this short quiz may be of use and it allows you to see which Party your answers best match up with: https://uk.isidewith.com/political-quiz

I'm in the same constituency, and gather from what you imply by SNP overtaking tories to 3rd place is that the Lib Dems will finish second. Not a chance IMO! They'll finish behind Labour, SNP, and Tories and I think we'll see an SNP win here. Only thing that may help Labour here is that there seems to be a lot of people impressed with Ian Murray as their MP. The Lib Dems haven't got a hope at all here. They've parachuted in a candidate nobody is familiar with, and aren't prepared to fight the seat as they're more worried about losing Edinburgh West and will invest their resources there. The Lib Dem vote is collapsing all over Scotland, nobody forgets how quick they were to jump into bed with the tories.

[Golden Bear]

I also have no clue who I'm voting for. All I know is it won't be snp due to their stance on trident

:agree:

Except I do know whom I'm voting for and for the first time in my life it will be a tactical vote.

[snooky]

I'm in the same constituency, and gather from what you imply by SNP overtaking tories to 3rd place is that the Lib Dems will finish second. Not a chance IMO! They'll finish behind Labour, SNP, and Tories and I think we'll see an SNP win here. Only thing that may help Labour here is that there seems to be a lot of people impressed with Ian Murray as their MP. The Lib Dems haven't got a hope at all here. They've parachuted in a candidate nobody is familiar with, and aren't prepared to fight the seat as they're more worried about losing Edinburgh West and will invest their resources there. The Lib Dem vote is collapsing all over Scotland, nobody forgets how quick they were to jump into bed with the tories.

Their problem is that the swing to Liberal at the last election was from a disgruntled Labour support.
IMO, Clegg's amalgamation with the Right has all but killed off the Liberal Party as a force for at least a generation.
He wanted his 15 minutes of fame and he got it, but at a terrible cost to his Party. As for the final straw, think Danny Alexander.
Alas, the Liberals can expect no sympathy or mercy from the electorate this time around.

[liamh2202]

:agree:

Except I do know whom I'm voting for and for the first time in my life it will be a tactical vote.

That was my thoughts too but not even sure who the best tactical vote would be

[McD]

I live in the most marginal constituency in Edinburgh, only 316 votes (0.7% of the people who voted) separated Labour and Liberal Democrats. I almost exclusively vote for the Liberal Democrats, I feel they are the Party with the fairest set of manifesto promises and tow the line between being left and right wing in a good manner. I pretty much agree with a majority of what they propose, so I will vote for them again, but I feel they will struggle to usurp Ian Murray.

The only time I have not voted Lib Dem was when I voted Conservative as my first choice in the Local Council elections, Lib Dems were second, I just felt that the councillor for my ward, Cameron Rose, shows a genuine interest for the area, which I feel is incredibly important in local politics.

The Lib Dems may struggle, I think there will be an increase in the vote for the SNP in Edinburgh South, plus the candidate for the last two elections, Fred Mackintosh, has stepped aside and it is now up to Pramod Subbaraman to fill the void, and he is less familiar with the folk in this constituency. I feel it will be another Labour win, with a bigger margin of victory, and the SNP will overtake Conservatives into third place in Edinburgh South.

For anyone struggling with who they feel they should vote for, this short quiz may be of use and it allows you to see which Party your answers best match up with: https://uk.isidewith.com/political-quiz


Interesting quiz mate, thanks for posting 😊

[emerald green]

I'm voting Raving Loonie. The only political party that actually tells the truth. :cb

[JohnStephens91]

I'm in the same constituency, and gather from what you imply by SNP overtaking tories to 3rd place is that the Lib Dems will finish second. Not a chance IMO! They'll finish behind Labour, SNP, and Tories and I think we'll see an SNP win here. Only thing that may help Labour here is that there seems to be a lot of people impressed with Ian Murray as their MP. The Lib Dems haven't got a hope at all here. They've parachuted in a candidate nobody is familiar with, and aren't prepared to fight the seat as they're more worried about losing Edinburgh West and will invest their resources there. The Lib Dem vote is collapsing all over Scotland, nobody forgets how quick they were to jump into bed with the tories.

Maybe I was being a tad generous in terms of how the Lib Dems will do, but I can't see the SNP winning here, and if I'm being honest I hope they don't, I'd rather Labour won. I'm not into tactical voting so won't vote Labour to keep the SNP out, I vote for the Party with policies I agree with (another discussion altogether regarding voting systems).

You can say that the Lib Dem vote is crashing because of the coalition with the Tories, which I agreed with, but remember that the Labour vote is also collapsing. There are many reasons as to why the traditional Parties are seeing their votes collapsing or being shaken up at the very least, and it's the same all over the UK and not just Scotland. This is why this election campaign is incredibly exciting and hard to predict.

[snooky]

Maybe I was being a tad generous in terms of how the Lib Dems will do, but I can't see the SNP winning here, and if I'm being honest I hope they don't, I'd rather Labour won. I'm not into tactical voting so won't vote Labour to keep the SNP out, I vote for the Party with policies I agree with (another discussion altogether regarding voting systems).

You can say that the Lib Dem vote is crashing because of the coalition with the Tories, which I agreed with, but remember that the Labour vote is also collapsing. There are many reasons as to why the traditional Parties are seeing their votes collapsing or being shaken up at the very least, and it's the same all over the UK and not just Scotland. This is why this election campaign is incredibly exciting and hard to predict.

:agree:
However IMO, many people who are undecided in the run up tend to end up voting as they've always done because they can't be bothered deciphering all the propaganda bollox in the campaigning.

[degenerated]

I'm in Edinburgh West. Who is the SNP candidate. Thought Mikey Stewart was up for the gig?

Michelle Thomson, she was chairman of Business for Scotland and comes across pretty well. The SNP have done well in that area in Holyrood, Council and European electsions since Lib dems jumped into bed with the Tories so I suspect that the incumbent, Mike Crockart, might just be out on his erse. :thumbsup:

[GlesgaeHibby]

Maybe I was being a tad generous in terms of how the Lib Dems will do, but I can't see the SNP winning here, and if I'm being honest I hope they don't, I'd rather Labour won. I'm not into tactical voting so won't vote Labour to keep the SNP out, I vote for the Party with policies I agree with (another discussion altogether regarding voting systems).

You can say that the Lib Dem vote is crashing because of the coalition with the Tories, which I agreed with, but remember that the Labour vote is also collapsing. There are many reasons as to why the traditional Parties are seeing their votes collapsing or being shaken up at the very least, and it's the same all over the UK and not just Scotland. This is why this election campaign is incredibly exciting and hard to predict.

This seat is a definite two horse race between Labour and SNP. The Lib Dem vote will collapse (here and across Scotland) and the Labour vote is collapsing in Scotland too due to their toxic alliance with the Tories during the referendum campaign. I'm cautiously optimistic that the SNP can win this seat.

This is a fascinating campaign, and good to see rise in support for the smaller parties (although I'm equally delighted that UKIP look unlikely to win any more then 3 or 4 seats).

[CropleyWasGod]

If you're shallow, like me, and vote on the basis of the best Broadcast, it's a no-brainer :greengrin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPgS7p40ERg

[snooky]

If you're shallow, like me, and vote on the basis of the best Broadcast, it's a no-brainer :greengrin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPgS7p40ERg

Good promo video and I also liked what this guy had to say too - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVxfm4ed8tk. There's also the tempting fact that it is called the "Green" Party :wink:
If there was a box for "Your 2nd choice" on the ballot card, I would certainly pick the Greens this time around.

[Hannah_hfc]

If you're shallow, like me, and vote on the basis of the best Broadcast, it's a no-brainer :greengrin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPgS7p40ERg
That's the most mental, flamboyant party political broadcast I have ever seen.... Yet I think it's won me over!

[Moulin Yarns]

Good promo video and I also liked what this guy had to say too - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVxfm4ed8tk. There's also the tempting fact that it is called the "Green" Party :wink:
If there was a box for "Your 2nd choice" on the ballot card, I would certainly pick the Greens this time around.

If you want to make a difference why wait until there is a second box?

[Hibbyradge]

Would the admins change the thread title, please.

I do know who I'm voting for. :wink:

[HiBremian]

Feeling completely apathetic about it, don't trust any of the parties to do anything that isn't completely self serving for themselves, struggle to see any MPs who are seriously interested in running the country to improve it as opposed to being on a power trip with an expense account (I'm sure there are some).

It's interesting how this, quite justified, criticism of politicians keeps coming up. But rarely do we hear about the few who openly turn down the expense account approach. IIRC there were a few left-wing Labour MPs in the recent past who only took the average working wage for themselves and gave away the rest to their party or whatever. Can't remember exactly, who, but if folks come up with the criticism surely they should also support the exceptions, no?


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Peevemor]

Just seen this on Facebook


Well now. This is interesting. The picture on the left is the woman who on STV's Tuesday night debate that said she would now be voting Labour in the General Election, because as she said, Jim had convinced her with what he had said that night.
Now the picture on the right was from the referendum campaign.
Eerily similar.


14647

[BroxburnHibee]

Would the admins change the thread title, please.

I do know who I'm voting for. :wink:

And what would you want it to say? :greengrin

[marinello59]

Just seen this on Facebook



14647

Saw that. I think their stupidity is more criminal than their deceit. How on earth did they think they would get away with that. :greengrin
Isn't the continuing and rather tedious social media campaign of utter hatred against Labour by SNP supporters rather at odds with Nicola Stugeons aim of supporting Ed Milliband as PM? Looks like we will have a lot of disgruntled SNP supporters after the election. :devil:

[Peevemor]

Saw that. I think their stupidity is more criminal than their deceit. How on earth did they think they would get away with that. :greengrin
Isn't the continuing and rather tedious social media campaign of utter hatred against Labour by SNP supporters rather at odds with Nicola Stugeons aim of supporting Ed Milliband as PM? Looks like we will have a lot of disgruntled SNP supporters after the election. :devil:

Not at all. If everything goes according to plan for the Nats, they'll have UK Labour by the short and curlies after the election. Luuuuuvleeeyyy! :greengrin

[Beefster]

Just seen this on Facebook



14647

There's a group of tragic ****ers sitting in a bedroom somewhere spending their time analysing the background of everyone who proclaims to be either pro Labour or anti-independence.

[ronaldo7]

Saw that. I think their stupidity is more criminal than their deceit. How on earth did they think they would get away with that. :greengrin
Isn't the continuing and rather tedious social media campaign of utter hatred against Labour by SNP supporters rather at odds with Nicola Stugeons aim of supporting Ed Milliband as PM? Looks like we will have a lot of disgruntled SNP supporters after the election. :devil:

The young lady in question, with a tweet from the First Minister:greengrin

14648

[Peevemor]

There's a group of tragic ****ers sitting in a bedroom somewhere spending their time analysing the background of everyone who proclaims to be either pro Labour or anti-independence.

Brilliant eh? :thumbsup:

[ronaldo7]

First Minister online now. Get in and ask some questions.

http://fb.com/NicolaSturgeonSNP

[EH6 Hibby]

Saw that. I think their stupidity is more criminal than their deceit. How on earth did they think they would get away with that. :greengrin
Isn't the continuing and rather tedious social media campaign of utter hatred against Labour by SNP supporters rather at odds with Nicola Stugeons aim of supporting Ed Milliband as PM? Looks like we will have a lot of disgruntled SNP supporters after the election. :devil:

Nicola Sturgeon has openly said in every debate that she will do whatever it takes to make sure the Tories don't win.

[JeMeSouviens]

There's a group of tragic ****ers sitting in a bedroom somewhere spending their time analysing the background of everyone who proclaims to be either pro Labour or anti-independence.

The side-by-side actually comes from a pro-Union Lib Dem blogger.

[marinello59]

Nicola Sturgeon has openly said in every debate that she will do whatever it takes to make sure the Tories don't win.

She has.
Tbere are a lot SNP supporters who reckon the Labour Party are Tories though. :greengrin

[marinello59]

The side-by-side actually comes from a pro-Union Lib Dem blogger.

This isn't the referundum. Why the need to divide on a YES/NO basis?

[Moulin Yarns]

This isn't the referundum. Why the need to divide on a YES/NO basis?


Tell that to this lot in Perth.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/608899512543415/?ref=ts&fref=ts

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/general-election-2015/11445684/New-Unionist-tactical-voting-campaign-to-stop-SNP-surge.html

For info Victor Clements, their leader is a former ULster Unionist and is now a Lib Dem. Join together to stop the SNP, they had Labour activists bussed in from Glasgow going round doors asking people to vote Tory.

[JeMeSouviens]

This isn't the referundum. Why the need to divide on a YES/NO basis?

I was replying to (my bold):


there's a group of tragic ****ers sitting in a bedroom somewhere spending their time analysing the background of everyone who proclaims to be either pro Labour or anti-independence.

[Beefster]

Brilliant eh? :thumbsup:

Not for them. They haven't had a burd between them for years.

[Beefster]

I was replying to (my bold):

I made no comment on the political persuasion of said tragic ****ers sitting in their bedroom.

[Peevemor]

Not for them. They haven't had a burd between them for years.


Leaves more for the rest of us.