For me, the tactical considerations are a minor part of it. I'd only use an absentee ballot if I was physically unable to make it to a polling place, because I won't give up the experience of participation. I stand in line (sometimes for a long time) with people who might be Republican or Democrat or independent, and I feel the weight of two centuries of tradition. Everyone else seems to feel it too--they're quiet and dignified, and I've never seen electioneering at a polling place. We all know that the campaigning is over, and this--right here, right now--is the moment of truth. Election day is the day that brings home the reality of living in a democracy. I'm not a religious person, but election day is the sabbath of democracy.