Unopposed Races

While I was standing in line at the poll yesterday reviewing the ballot, I saw a number of unopposed races. While I doubt it will have any impact, I have decided not to vote in those elections. My reasoning is as follows: If I don't vote in those elections, they will still win, but the number of votes will be depressed for those races when compared to the number of votes cast for other races on the same ballot. If that depression could show up statistically, maybe opponents could be found for many of the races.

Without an opponent, there is no debate, no discussion of the issues. With that being the case, opponents in an election seem desireable.