Thread by @monlouhawk

What democracy looks like: (short thread)

I just voted in Dutch general elections. I voted for one of the parties that wasn't VVD (sorry Mark Rutte).

If the Dutch used First Past the Post, Mark would've been able to rule the Netherlands however he wants - just look at this map

However, despite the fact that his party was the largest party in most councils, his party only actually got around 22 or 23% of the total vote.

So - his job now is to find other parties so that between them, they represent over 50% of the country's vote.

Which is fab - why?

Three reasons.

1️⃣ my vote didn't end up in the bin - instead it properly contributed to the number of seats of my chosen party

2️⃣ one party doesn't get freedom to dictate its entire manifesto on a 23% vote share

3️⃣ compromise and consensus building is built in

Is Dutch politics perfect? No definitely not. Do people still vote for politicians who have been shown to be involved in scandals and resigned only months ago? Yes. That's their right

But my vote was counted EXACTLY the same as theirs.

And THAT is democracy.

#makevotesmatter

P.S. the difference in how I feel after voting in NL or UK cannot be underestimated.

It makes me cry.

Once the Dutch cabinet is formed, I can say, yes it reflects how I and others voted.

In the UK, my vote (in non marginal) is shredded while others' are given superpowers.