If you think 'paternal' is more apt, then maybe "paternalistic" was the word you were looking for, not "patriarchal". That one word -- despite -- is the fine line between action and inaction for most people. It makes people think of scenarios they'd rather not think of, because it means their actions might conflict with their beliefs. If it takes pandering to get people to vote the first time, they might do it on their own the second time. No, although the maleness fits, 'paternal' maybe more apt. Still, the maleness of these political power structures plays a role in how they are perceived and how they act.
It's a sad that people can easily grasp how their one vote means so little, but can't understand that acting despite that fact means so much.