Some reasons Poffenbarger offered for Amish choosing not to vote include that they believe running for office is arrogant and does not fit with their values of humility and modesty. He also said holding office would violate their desire to separate themselves and their community from the rest of the world.
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Andy Weaver, an Amish man who lives in the Somerton area, was a customer at a sawmill owned by another member of the Amish community one recent morning. He and mill owner Dennis Miller said their religious beliefs prevent them from taking part in elections; however, both are paying attention to the process.
Miller did not express a preference for a particular candidate.
"We just stay home and pray that hopefully we'll get the right guy," Miller said.
But Weaver, who had read about the presidential race in that morning's edition of The Intelligencer, knows who he would support if he were to vote.
"I like Obama," he said, noting he prefers the demeanor of Illinois Democrat Barack Obama to that of his Republican opponent, John McCain of Arizona.
"When he got blasted, he didn't waiver off his course," Weaver said of Obama. "I think he's the man we need."
Weaver added that he, as a member of the Amish community, generally opposes war and believes Obama has the better plan to withdraw American troops from Iraq.
Okay, so he does indicate a preference. Note though that the interview isn't taking place as he's leaving a political rally, and the entire emphasis of the article is that participation, even as a voter is a violation of their values.
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