by. Paul Stone (House District 61)
In 2014, researchers Martin Gilens, a Princeton Professor, and Benjamin I. Page, a Northwest University professor, noted: “… that over the past few decades America’s political system has slowly transformed from a democracy into an oligarchy, where wealthy elites wield most power. (An oligarchy is a form of government where the few rule.)
https://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/princeton-experts-say-us-no-longer-democracy
Using data drawn from over 1,800 different policy initiatives from 1981 to 2002, the two conclude that, “… rich, well-connected individuals on the political scene now steer the direction of the country, regardless of or even against the will of the majority voters.” Elected officials appear to be listening almost exclusively to the elite that contribute to their political campaigns, and not voters in their home districts.
Why do elected officials listen so exclusively to lobbyists, special interests, elites? It costs a fortune to get elected and only the elites can afford to pay that bill–they, generally, don’t just donate to a “good cause.” It’s an investment and they expect a return. Will Rogers famously and accurately said, “We have the best congress that money can buy.”
While living in Washington State, having served as a precinct committee officer for 25 years, I thought I was well-informed on who to vote for and who to not vote for; however, after participating in Utah’s Caucus system, I can safely say that I have never been as well-informed as I am today. After weeks of Meet and Greets this Spring, one-on-one conversations with candidates, phone calls and debates I can now say I definitely know more about who is honest and who is not. The dishonest ones dodge questions or lie to you saying things that you know don’t square with their past. The honest ones tell the truth, even if it makes them unpopular. To be up close and personal with well-thought-out questions, allows a delegate to get a better feel for a candidate’s character.
The Utah Caucus system must be terribly frustrating to the elites. Unless they want to help pay for the hiring of third party companies to collect signatures for their preferred candidate–in the largest races/federal races upwards of $500,000–the Caucus system is open to all who want to participate and the cheapest path, but comes with the greatest scrutiny. The Caucus system does not get it right all the time, but does so more times than the primary and often the liars are detected and rejected.
In Utah, because of the neighborhood Caucus system; good, honest common people can get elected to office without selling their soul to special interests. The elites still make it on to the ballot through signature gathering, and sometimes a good candidate enters through that path too.
At least with the Caucus system, the people have a chance. Without the Caucus system, Utah would have what some call The Golden Rule: those with the gold make the rules. For these reasons and many others, this is Why Utah Needs the Caucus System.
Here’s some comedy about elections in general to make the point:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz_V4lRdtjo
– Paul Stone (House District 61)
