Dean has just given a
wonderfully nuanced proposal that would be a great leap toward reforming democracy in the United States. Whoever becomes the nominee, I hope he takes some cues from Dean on this. Some key points:
- Campaign finance reform: Dean would match the first $100 of donations 5:1, and encourage donations with tax credits, among other things.
- Public financing for all federal races: that includes the Senate and House.
- Fix the institutions: he'd abolish the FEC and start over, require that companies using federal airwaves give some time to public interests, and ensure safe elections.
- Non partisan redistricting: not sure how he'd accomplish this, but partisan redistricting prevents accountability for Representatives at the expense of the public.
- Commission to examine democracy: a commission of "ordinary Americans - not politicians" to examine our electoral methods.
All in all, an excellent approach to a problem at the root of most political problems, with an attention to detail. I'm glad politicians are noting the problems with our institutions, and I hope they take note of it.
I also hope the public becomes aware of it, because most politicians are reactionary rather than visionary.