I get through few weeks without at least one caller suggesting that the whole country vote on one issue or another. Unfortunately, there’s no system for a national referendum. The founders of this country knew the dangers of direct democracy and I think they were right. Still, the initiative in Oregon serves an important function. When state law makers won’t take care of a problem…the real government…the people…can take over. This time around people are gathering signatures on eight initiatives. They include two on pot, of course, one on home sale taxes, one to allow a non tribal casino, one on the death tax, and two that would make changes in the initiative system itself. Although I’m a Clark county voter, I always look forward to these votes because they serve as warnings to the legislature…get the people’s work done or the people will take back control of their government…and I think that’s healthy for a representative form of government.
Tags: Oregon, KXL, Lars Larson, Voter
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