Our nation and states need basic electoral reforms to open up our democracy

Today, I submitted a letter to the editor to my local newspaper here in Abilene, Texas. This is a time-honored method of promoting an issue with the local community. Of course, national newspapers and magazines are also great opportunities to send your letters.

Having 10 years experience in third party politics, I have first-hand knowledge of the difficulties candidates such as Ralph Nader have in getting a foot-hold in our democratic system. I believe that third parties would be a much more serious and effective force in government if various fundamental electoral reforms, such as redistricting, ballot access requirements, public financing of elections and Instant Runoff Voting are instituted in the states and in Washington, DC.

Here is my letter; it may be edited at the newspaper's discretion when and if they publish it.

Dear Editor,

I am appalled that, after Ross Perot's popular run for president in 1992, the Texas legislature still has not eased ballot access requirements for third parties or independents. The ruling Republican and Democratic parties in this state think it is not in their interest to allow more competitors for their offices. But what about the people? Don't they deserve a more open political system that encourages a broad debate on the many issues that we face each election? This year, progressive Ralph Nader is offering solutions to positions not ever considered by today's three major candidates. Let's help Ralph gain ballot access in the coming days by signing his petition and allow him and his running mate advocation of better ballot access laws.

David Weller

Write a letter to the editor in support of Sunshine Week 2008

I wrote a short letter to the editor for my local newspaper. It is in celebration of Sunshine Week 2008, upcoming around the country next week. I invite you to do the same today, to get the word out on, perhaps, the most important issue of these times...

To: Editor, Abilene Reporter-News

In these times of peril, when our nation is under assault by a closed organization, we come to Sunshine Week 2008 March 16- 22. One of the great strengths of our own society has been openness; a national journalist association has founded this week of celebration. Many activities will take place around the country and in Washington, DC-- check them out at http://www.sunshineweek.org/!

Blessings from our representatives (under subject: Government Reform)

This is for all of the hard-working politicos who labor over their browsers, sending oft-neglected personal letters to their elected officials! It was from me to my town's Abilene Reporter-News editor, published today:

Our State Representative Susan King is working very hard for us, as far as I've seen, and her connections are incredible! Take, for example, the last sentence in her form letter she e-mails her letter-writers.

''May God bless you and our great state of Texas.''

Now, I believe in a Republican form of government, but I didn't know she could do that! And the whole state of Texas at that!

Now, if I can only get her to lower our sales tax.

David Weller

Abilene

Thanks for sharing this laugh, and remember, In God We Trust. :)