Wisconsin citizen OP: Democracy on the recall front

[Scuba]

http://www.jsonline.com/news/opinion/democracy-on-the-recall-front-mp37rgt-134648588.html



..snip..

During these past couple of weeks, I have been collecting signatures for the recall of Gov. Scott Walker. To me, the democratic activity of collecting signatures for the recall is something I can do toward making things better in this state, besides complaining. So I waited excitedly for the Nov. 15 campaign kickoff, got some petitions from my local recall office and set out to work.

...

Only one man, sweating from his workout, was even slightly confrontational. He said that we have already elected Walker, so he did not want to sign the recall petition. Further, he said, the recall is too expensive at a time when "we" - I think he meant the people of Wisconsin - can least afford it.

But maybe democracy is a lot like working out. You don't work out just once and then get to be physically fit afterward. You have to do it frequently, challenging yourself and adding to your strength and flexibility. It might be a good idea, I told the confrontational sweating guy, if we voted more often. What would be the harm in the electorate having more of a say? It might keep our politicians a little more accountable to us.

Because here's the thing. We tell our kids that democracy is good, that it is the best system on Earth for government. And that is true. But democracy is also boring and messy, requiring time and attention. It requires talking to people we don't necessarily agree with; it requires paying attention to the complex math supporting claims of deficit reduction and job creation; it requires evaluating when and how to deploy state laws like the one authorizing recall elections.



..end..


emphasis mine

[WillParkinson]

1. The best way to deploy such laws...

Is to let the Republicans challenge and change them to suit their needs. Just ask them, they'll tell you! :sarcasm: (Though I truly hope the :sarcasm: wasn't necessary.)

[lunatica]

2. If Democracy were like a football game or a Reality Show or Nascar

People would love participating.

If we could all pull a lever and either punch the President or shower him with wealth every time he did something people would love pulling the lever. Of course only the majority would decide which action would be bestowed on the President. Then he'd know exactly where he stands with the majority at any given time.

Same for Congress, Governors, State Legislators and Mayors. Democracy would be much more interesting.

And a hell of a lot more honest.