Sunday, September 6, 2009

o Change the Constitution

The constitution was signed and agreed upon in 1787. Because of the change in global economics and the advent of the internet, its outdated in key areas.

Here are a few suggestions to make things better and more competitive.

1) Stop gerrymandering and redistrict states in a fair way. Create an independent commission whose priority is to create competitive districts. Limit the number of Congressmen in the House of Representatives by half by increasing the district sizes. Voters should have access to polling websites to indicate how they would vote on certain issues and laws.

2) Create a fourth branch of government called the Commerce Branch. Within the Commerce Branch, have separate departments for the major industrial and farming sectors. For example, Agriculture, Banking, Energy, Manufacturing, Shipping, Retailers. The head of each department is an elected official serving a 5 year term. The departments responsibilities are to draft laws, taxes, rules, and regulations regarding their sector. Any changes to the regulatory code will then be put forth in front of the Senate.

3) Introduce a third viable party, the Independent Party. A two party system does not allow for "tie breakers". It also doesn't give voters much of a choice. A two party system is too dogmatic and doesn't foster the freedom and expression of independent thoughts. People vote along "Party Lines" meaning voters' opinions are given to them by their political party.

4) Require the Democrats, Republicans, and Independents to field at least two candidates to run for each primary. Keep each primary closed meaning only registered members of a particular political party can vote for their primary candidates. Fund both candidates equally. Most incumbent Congressman face no challenges in the primary elections. In fact, party leaders discourage others from running against an incumbent. Primary elections should be heavily advertised and open for any eligible candidate to participate. Competition among candidates will ensure the government will have the best possible people in office.

5) Address the need for campaign finance reform. Utilize the internet as an inexpensive way to disseminate information about each candidate. Have each person running for public office fill out a standardized questionnaire and have the answers readily available online.

6) Pass a balanced budget amendment.

7) In lieu of the House of Representatives, let citizens become involved with the law making process. Have 2 people for each county sign a sworn affidavit that they have read and understand a bill before their Senators are allowed to vote on the bill.

8) Give states more power to decide social issues. The federal government should worry about larger issues such as war, treaties, and border protection.

9) Require military enlistment for sons and daughters of elected officials. The decision to use the military should be given to people with some skin in the game.

10) Level the playing field for all citizens until the age of 21. This means investing heavily in schools, educational resources, food and health care for those under the age of 21. After you turn 21, you're on your own baby. The Government ain't your mommy, the sooner you realize that the better off you'll be.

11) Impose a three term limit to Congressman. Politicians should not be entitled to a seat in Congress, nor should they be lauded for holding a seat for 40+ years.

12) Don't allow lobbyist to have offices within the borders of Washington DC. Have congressman report all meetings with lobbyists.

13) No business taxes on new businesses for the first 2 years. The government needs to encourage job growth.

14) Institute a flat income tax combined with a federal sales tax.

15) States and regions should encourage local currencies to keep jobs and money circulating in their area.

Websites:
Please visit http://www.publicampaign.org, http://www.govtrack.us and http://smallisbeautiful.org for more information.