No on Proposition 2
Dear Editor: I am writing to give my support for NO on Proposition 2. As an independent voter, I am completely happy with rank choice voting. I don’t have to rely on a party ticket in order to be able to participate in a primary election – which is the first step in the voting process. I get to choose from a slate of possibilities rather than what one or other major party decides who I can vote for.
This is where I see the strength of rank choice voting having its greatest impact on the politics of Alaska. Everyone is eligible to vote in the primary election regardless of party affiliation. It tones down the rhetoric and makes possible candidates articulate their philosophy and beliefs, not those of only the two major parties. The voter can then rank each potential runner based upon their beliefs, not those of a given party.
While I understand that this makes things messier for the major political parties, and requires the voter to do a little homework – like actually read the voter pamphlet and listen to various news sources – it gives the actual voter more power.
Once the primary is over and the ranks are in, then if the voter only wants one candidate, that is the only candidate they have to vote for. No more ranking required. The vote is valid. It’s that simple. The option to rank is still an option, but may not be necessary for some voters.
The previous system puts the power in the hands of the major political parties. I would much rather vote for people who support my beliefs, viewpoints, and support Alaska. At this point, I’m not sure political parties do that. I would rather have the choice to decide who will represent me, regardless of party affiliation, rather than a single party make that decision for me. Wouldn’t you?
Vote No on 2.
Bobbi Jordan, Sitka
Vote
Dear Editor: A song for others to rewrite, illustrate, or add to.
On the first fay of voting, 50 teens arrived.
On the second day, 100 young adults jived.
On the third day of voting, 150 elders came.
On the fourth day, 200 first responders sang.
On the fifth day of voting, 200 fishermen.
On the sixth day of voting, 100 politicians boasted.
On the seventh day, 100 veterans toasted.
On the eighth day of voting, the 1,000th ballot was complete.
On the ninth day of voting there is even room for you.
On the 10th day, is a privilege true.
On the ‘‘official’’ day of voting, more of Sitka came and early votes were counted.
With mail-in ballots counted, we knew Alaska’s cast.
With recounts done, we see that women won.
Christy Williams, Sitka
