Run-Right Elections
We’re days away from one of the most important elections in our history and once again the process is in a great muddle. It’s time to talk about reforming that process, and cleaning up our political campaigns.
First, we should hold elections only every two years. In some places we’re voting every year. It is inefficient and unnecessary.
Second, there should be a single primary, and probably on the Tuesday after Labor Day. With the Internet, and television, we can get our facts straight in eight weeks. We don’t need 18 months of campaigning.
Third, everyone should vote on election day. This year between 30% and 50% of those casting ballots will do so before November 4th. If you can’t make it to a polling place, you should be able to vote by computer. We spend zillions of dollars online every day; surely we can make voting secure. Much changes during the last few weeks of a campaign. That tens of millions of Americans have already voted is ridiculous.
Fourth, we should do away with all political commercials. They are designed to deceive, or at least hedge the truth. Some of them are outright lies. Broadcasters refuse to take responsibility for the veracity of the spots they air because if they said no to the prevaricators they would lose money.
Fifth, broadcasters should be required to provide free air time to all legitimate candidates. Say three minutes for every federal candidate and two for those running statewide. And these spots should be aired at various practical times of viewing, not just overnight, before the primary and the general elections.
And sixth, every eligible American should vote. They don’t have to check any boxes, but they should at least honor our forefathers and their citizenship by casting a ballot. Those who don’t vote shouldn’t receive money from the government, neither welfare recipient nor military contractor.
America stands for democracy. Let’s run it right.
©2008 SetonnoteS
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