"Manipulated"?
Do you not think people know what they are voting for?
Maybe the issue is with how people feel and why they think reform is the answer to their problems?

Simple uses for meditation, repeating short prayers (my own inspired from scripture, or something like The Jesus Prayer), or Lord's Prayer-I find the beads helpful in a 'fidget' way, and to stay focused.
Might use them to list things I am thankful for or something.
It can be a helpful way to focus.

I have not used a 'formal' set of prayer beads, but I have found used prayer beads helpful sometimes.

Why the # ?

Here are a few of us at a pit stop. Special afternoon.
May God shine his light on this town!