The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word VOTES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
V
O
T
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "these should get cast" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case these should get cast = votes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does VOTES mean?
VOTES noun- A formalized choice on matters of administration or other democratic activities
- An act or instance of participating in such a choice, e.g., by submitting a ballot
- An ardent wish or desire; a vow; a prayer
- To cast a vote; to assert a formalized choice in an election
- To choose or grant by means of a vote, or by general consent