Talking democracy on-line …
admin January 17th, 2008
(Frances) This afternoon I got to field questions in an on-line discussion set up by the Study Circles Resource Center whose work in bringing democracy to life I’ve valued for decades.
Some questions were pretty challenging. One I had fun with was, What should we ask the candidates? Here are my responses:
Your worldview. If you could pick one or two, what do you believe are the root causes of our worsening economic, international relations, ecological, and climate change crises?
Removing the power of money in our political system. What are you doing to remove the power of money through our electoral and our legislative systems? Do you or will you support voluntary public financing or “Clean Elections” for all state and national elections? (It is now law in 3 states for all offices and bills for federal Clean Elections are pending in both the House and the Senate.)
Listening to citizens. If elected, what methods will you use to receive suggestions and criticisms from citizens? Will you commit to holding regular public gatherings, including “Listening Sessions” in which you listen to citizens’ concerns and simply ask questions? What are other ways you plan to benefit from the experience and input of citizens? How will you use the internet to solicit ideas and feedback from citizens?
Transparency. How will you increase the breadth and depth of transparency of government? How will you make your record on the specific pledges you make during your campaign visible for all citizens to review? For the issues you consider most critical, what specific goals and milestones along the way have you set? Where can citizens view them?
You can read the entire stimulating discussion here. Enjoy.
Frankie
