[pf] The Decision - the hope that lies ahead

by Jill Taylor Bussiere

13 December 2000 04:06 UTC

Although I am thoroughly disgusted with Justices Scalia, Thomas and
Rehnquist, there is hope.  An historical analyst  cautiously labeled this
Supreme Court Decision as the most important in 30 years, stating that he
thought it would do much to reform our election system to a more democratic
process.

Since the 2 candidates leave much to be desired ( one leaves more to be
desired than the other), and since our election system is in great need of a
total overhaul, perhaps this has all been worth it - even the partisanship
of the 3 justices above - since the end result will bring about change much
faster than a handful of Greens, Libertarians, Progressive Democrats, et
cetera.  On television, on a major station, I just heard a discussion about
how the electoral college would likely be reformed to be proportional.

Also got this notice from a friend: A bipartisan bill, HR 5631, sponsored by
U.S. Representatives Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Jim Leach (R-IA), was
introduced on November 15, 2000 to study proportional representation,
instant runoff voting, and other pro-democracy reforms.  The Center urges
you to contact your representative to support and co-sponsor HR 5631.

Illinois
Triple Threat: Cumulative voting for Illinois

Maryland
Testimony of Eric Olson on Maryland House Joint Resolution 9.  To establish
a "Commission to Study Proportional Representation and Single-Member
Legislative Districting for the House of Delegates of the General Assembly."

Vermont
Testimony of Robert Richie to the House Government Operations Committee,
Vermont House of Representatives regarding House Bill 199 for IRV  February
1, 2000

State report on instant runoff voting for statewide and federal offices.
It's As Easy as 1-2-3.

Press release from the Voter's Choice Coalition about Vermont and IRV.

Cities
TWO VICTORIES ON ELECTION DAY!   Voters in San Leandro (CA) and Oakland (CA)
approved city charter amendments that permit the use of instant runoff
voting in city elections.  These cities join Santa Clara County (CA) and
Vancouver (WA) who have passed charter amendments allowing IRV in the past 2
years.