The two-party political system is a disaster. These reforms could set things right | Opinion
Two-party system is broken
Electoral reform is needed to break the logjam that is our current two-party system and repair the dysfunction in our democracy. At a minimum, these reforms should include the adoption of ranked-choice voting, proportional representation in a multi-party system, and the elimination of closed primaries. In combination, these would essentially eliminate the politics of drawing district boundaries and gerrymandering, offer greater choice and more viewpoints, and better ensure that every vote really does count (even in deep blue/red areas). These would also tend to reduce the influence of political extremists of all stripes and their ability to grind responsible governance to a halt, such as we have seen recently. Our current approach to elections makes it very difficult to break through the politics and posturing to make progress on effectively addressing the very many major problems that now confront us.
Dennis Finn, Pasco
Torres understands Pasco education
Rosa Torres is a graduate from Pasco High, Gonzaga University and the University of Notre Dame. Her education along with her strong work ethic,have made her a well-respected finance professional with a reputation as an insightful leader and key collaborator. Her deep family roots bought her home to Pasco, and our community is fortunate since she is now serving as a school board director and on the city planning commission, with homegrown dedication and Pasco pride.
I highly recommend you vote to retain Rosa Torres as the at-large member of the Pasco School Board on your Nov. 7 ballot.
Valerie Ortiz, Pasco
Support Benton public safety tax
When my ballot for the Nov. 7 election arrives, it will be my highest priority to vote to approve renewing the Public Safety Sales Tax.
This highly positive tax of 0.3% was first approved by the voters in 2014 and came to be incredibly beneficial to the citizens of Benton County. It has strengthened local law enforcement entities by improving officer retention, reducing backlog, increasing staffing levels and funding gang prevention programs.
It has also supported therapeutic courts such as Drug Court, Mental Health Court and Veteran’s Court, the latter of which I attend as often as possible. It has been a lesson for me to see how much good this program does by giving these fine patriots who committed to serving our country but who sometimes find returning to civilian life challenging. When eligible, they are given a chance to straighten their path. It is strict, and it is not easy. But I have watched them turn their lives around and be thankful for the opportunity.
I am reminded of the late U.S. Rep. John R. Lewis teaching us about what he called “good trouble.” I think we can rightfully call Proposition 1 “good taxation.”
Sue Frost, Kennewick
Support Torres
Rosa Torres is an excellent choice for Pasco School Board. She has proven that she is committed to being a well-informed, engaged and active community participant as a past mentor with both Junior Achievement and Communities in Schools. She is a member of the Pasco Planning Commission and the Washington State School Director Association Resolutions Committee.
Rosa is a strategic leader with management, business and financial experience with four key corporations and currently PNNL. As a school director, she is viewed as a relationship builder and a collaborator who works hard to get real results all while making a difference for students.
I highly recommend you vote for Rosa Torres as the at-large member on the Pasco School Board, and return your ballot before Nov. 7.
Bryan Axelson, Pasco
Election letters deadline
Ballots for the Nov. 7 general election are due to be mailed by Oct. 19.
Election letters in support of issues or candidates must be submitted by Thursday, Oct. 26, to be considered for publication.
Send letters to letters@tricityherald.com.
