For me, the effect has been the same as going ahead and voting for the other guy; something I never would consider doing.
I held my nose and voted for GHWB Part 2. Should I have voted for BJC? Or should more people have held their nose?
I held my nose and voted for Dole. Should I have voted for BJC Part 2? Or should more people have held their nose?
I voted for GWB cheerfully both times, Some conservatives were holding their noses. Were they wrong?
I voted for Palin and the old guy that happened to be on the same ticket. Had she not been there, I would have held my nose and voted for the old guy anyway. Should I have voted for Zero? Or should more people have held their nose?
History will be the penultimate judge, but I believe the answer is the same as that given a man trying to rescue his brother from drowning in sewage: hold your nose and do your best with what you have.
Yes I know what penultimate means and I used it on purpose.
I like your analogy.