If I abstain from voting on a bill, just because the Democrats intend to use my vote to show that I am a "hard right" politician in upcoming ads, that would be the right thing to do?

In Illinois, political experts say voting present is a relatively common way for lawmakers to express disapproval of a measure. It can at times help avoid running the risks of voting no, they add.

“If you are worried about your next election, the present vote gives you political cover,” said Kent D. Redfield, a professor of political studies at the University of Illinois at Springfield. “This is an option that does not exist in every state and reflects Illinois political culture.”

That was from your link. Is "political cover" and "avoiding risks" your idea of a new politician that represents change? I hope not. Illinois "political culture" is not exactly a political culture ANY other state, much less a nation, wants to emulate.

What other content did you provide which I ignored?

I don't have a favored candidate at this point. All three of the major candidates running are ALL center left. ALL three of them have been neglecting their constituencies to run for President. I wasn't kidding when I said I might prefer Hillary over McCain. McCain lost all credit and worth with my integrity bank some time ago.

My point was Obama is NOT going to revamp DC politics as usual. The Clintons were supposed to do that back in 92...remember? Obama has shown he is adept at slithering like a snake through the political minefields, "avoiding risks" for "political cover".

PS
If Colin Powell or Condoleezza Rice join with McCain to give him some needed conservative credentials and diversity, I might get quasi-enthusiastic about the GOP ticket, only because it might open the door for either of those two more qualified, individuals with integrity to spare in the future. As it stands, I'm considering abstaining from voting for President this time around.