Dear Editor,
Since Vermont has a political landscape that is probably less partisan than most states and, without a doubt, far less partisan than Washington, maybe it can set an example for how to move away from partisan politics. We urgently need cooperative, nonconfrontational efforts to mitigate the host of critical problems we face.
It seems that political parties often foster irrational noncooperation. What if Vermont eliminated political parties and candidates ran on their individual merits? We could have an open primary season in which candidates would provide, on a statewide website, their photos, appropriate personal information, what they would like to accomplish, how they would achieve those goals by working with others and any other information they deem appropriate.
There should probably be a comments and suggestions section for each candidate. They would not bear a party label. No campaign funding would be allowed, but organizations and individuals could endorse candidates on the Vermont website. Candidates would be free to campaign in person and through media appearances, but not pay for advertising.
On primary day, voters would choose from a list of candidates who have met the residency and informational requirements for the Vermont website using ranked-choice voting. This tends to foster constructive debate among candidates and makes it more likely that voters will cast their ballots for candidates they think are best, since their vote is not wasted on a long shot.
Assuming a primary attracts multiple candidates, the top two in each race would stand for election on the November ballot. Neither would have a party label. Campaign spending and advertising restrictions would stay. Voting in the November general election would be like it is now: Whoever gets the majority of the votes wins.
For those elected to go to Montpelier, more leadership and committee choices would be based first on merit rather than party affiliation.
We don’t have time to waste putting better ideas into practice.
Gerry Hawkes
Woodstock, Vt.
