My Proposal to Improve Elections in the United States

Honestly, I’m sick of it. And I know that most of you are too.

Real question: Why are we persisting in using an electoral system that does not serve the needs or wishes of the citizens it’s supposed to serve?

I’ve identified eight reforms that I think would go a long way in making the system more fair.

1. Outlaw gerrymandering.

Gerrymandering is a form of government corruption, in which a political party draws voting boundaries to help them win or retain power. It ensures that the overwhelming majority of districts in the United States are not competitive.

And competition is good for democracy. Voters deserve a legitimate choice in each election, and every elected official should have to work to earn the votes of the people they represent.

Research suggests that the most fair way to draw voting districts is to create a citizens’ council made up of a broad cross section of people from all walks of life and political beliefs. This group will be the most motivated to create voting districts that are as fair as possible for the broadest number of people. 

2. Eliminate party control over the primary process.

When primaries were first introduced, a lot of candidates were chosen not by voters, but by influential dealmakers in smoky back rooms. Holding primary elections was meant to put citizens in control.

But the current system of staggered primaries is not fair.  If you live in a state that holds a highly anticipated early primary, like Iowa or New Hampshire, voting in a primary feels exciting and meaningful, like your voice is heard and you have a real say in picking the nominee.  

But for those living in states that hold later primaries, like New Jersey, South Dakota, or Montana, there is likely only one candidate from each party left in the presidential race, and the voters have nearly no say at all in who the nominees will be. 

We should have one national Primary Election Day, just like we have one General Election Day.