I want a new T-shirt. I want it to read, in large text, “YES, I AM A REGISTERED VOTER IN OREGON. NOW LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE.”

You’d think that the headphones would deter them, but no, it only works on about half of them. You know who they are, the ones with the clipboards that want you to sign a petition, probably to let Ralph Nader get on the presidential election ballot in Oregon. (That, right there, is a good enough reason not to want to talk to these people.)

I’m sick and tired of being accosted just because I happen to be downtown, waiting for a bus or MAX, and therefore a captive audience. I’m all for participatory politics, don’t get me wrong, but after the 50th time (this week!) of hearing “Are you a registered voter in Oregon?” I’m starting to get tired of the process. It can be November sort of now-ish, thanks.