We maintain the corner posts of representative democracy, but with the active consent of less than half our citizens. It is time for prominent national and state discussions about this political depression. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened, as new discoveries are made, new truths disclosed, institutions must advance also, and keep pace with the times. Our political leaders and concerned citizens must be as bold as Jefferson and his contemporaries, and consider changes that will allow voters to see a real connection between their votes and policy. They quite literally choose their constituents before their constituents choose them.
Big districts make elections costly and keep representatives distant from constituents.
It also should replace current two-round runoffs or primaries, thereby maximizing turnout and saving candidates and taxpayers the cost of the second election. Proportional systems increase voter turnout substantially because voters have more choices and a greater chance to elect their favorite candidates. Debating such rule changes are only the beginning. Pulling us out of our political depression will not be easy, but we must not wait. If President Clinton seeks a place in history, calling for a national campaign to address our political depression would be a lasting legacy.