Elections and Politics

(October 2002)

Bonnie Tenneriello, issue editor, writes:

As the 2002 elections approach, in this issue of Mass Dissent we examine the way we vote. Nadine Cohen in "Lawsuits Allege Redistricting Plans Violate Voting Rights Act and Constitution" describes two lawsuits challenging newly-drawn legislative districts which deny fair representation to communities of color in Chelsea and Boston.
Pam Wilmot in her article "Clean Elections on the Ballot" reminds us that after many ups and downs, there are candidates running with public financing -- and without large, private contributions -- on the Massachusetts ballot this fall. She warns of a deceptive ballot measure designed to undermine support for "Clean Elections" in the future. Finally, Rob Richie in "The Promise of Fair Voting" describes another means to ensure fair voting and more equal representation: proportional representation and "instant runoff voting." Together, these articles propose a menu of reforms fair electoral districts, an end to money-dominated campaigns, and vote counting which doesn't squeeze out minority voters or third-party campaigns which add up to radical democratic change. Bon apetite!

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