We have similar thoughts. I mostly focus on local politics these days since that's what I have a reasonable chance off having some affect on. We struggle with apathy and complexity, and with the million distractions that gnaw at people for attention.
I understand your position on voting in the general case, you may want to reconsider that at least for local races where your vote or voice could have some impact on policing, property taxes, education - or even just the management of fundamental public services. Parties can quickly become clubs, without coherent ideology or purpose beyond electing the people with the correct branding and logos.
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