Democracy perverted

A recent trip to the supermarket left my blood boiling. Poised by the entrance was the familiar sight of a table set up to collect signatures for a ballot initiative.

Past experience has led me to be a little leery; however, my eternal optimism in the American democratic system, along with the gentleman’s hook – “Put political term limits on the ballot!” – enticed me to take a look.

As I approached, the man proudly announced that this initiative would reduce the current state limit of service from 14 years to twelve. Although the spirit of the topic rang true to my feelings, my suspicion was immediately triggered by such a modest bite at the apple.

The fun began when I asked to see the actual proposed text of the measure. With a surprised look on his face, the man – who, as all signature collectors, is hired by a marketing company and paid only by the number of signatures collected – handed me a copy. It is worthy to note that as I scanned the text four or five well-intentioned citizens passed by and signed the petition, commenting on their frustration at entrenched political operatives.

After muddling through a page of fluff, the initiative’s real intent appeared. Current law limits state assembly terms to six years and senate terms to eight years for a total of 14 years of “service.” This measure would reduce the total eligibility to 12 years but allow the entire period to be served in a single assembly or senate office! When I called this to the man’s attention and asked if he had read the text himself, he said he had and quickly turned away, saying that he was not there to argue or discuss the issue.

I just shook my head and walked away. As I drove off, I could see the gentleman reading the text, no doubt for the first time.

I urge my fellow Americans to remember that if we want our democracy to survive and flourish, it is our responsibility to be vigilant of those who would pervert it for personal gain.

Marty Howley