[EM] Conceiving a Democratic Electoral Process

[Fred Gohlke]

Good Afternoon, Michael

re: "The public may include partisans, of course, but they would
      vote together with everyone else when it comes to public
      decisions.  That's the crucial thing."

I agree that it's a crucial issue, but, as far as this discussion has 
advanced, we've yet to suggest a method by which it can be done.  One of 
the problems is that people motivated to political action are partisan, 
but they are a relatively small part of the electorate.  The 
non-partisans, virtually by definition, tend to not be politically 
active.  That does not mean they have no political interest or concern. 
  They do, but there is no viable 'good government' party they can 
support.  So, while they should be the greatest voice in the conduct of 
our government, they are forced to stand mute because parties dominate 
the political scene.  That is the crux of the matter.

I feel, like you, that our electoral method must embrace the entire 
electorate.  Those who don't wish to participate must be allowed to drop 
out, but everyone else must have a way to provide meaningful input into 
the choice of the people's representatives in their legislature.

Fred