Political Monopoly Power
by Walter E. Williams
The Federalist Papers, written by James Madison, John Jay and Alexander Hamilton, is the document most frequently referred to when trying to get a feel for the original intent of the framers of the Constitution. One such intention is found in Federalist 56 where Madison says, "...it seems to give the fullest assurance, that a representative for every thirty thousand inhabitants will render the (House of Representatives) both a safe and competent guardian of the interests which will be co ...
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Posted by: Scott Broaddus
Comment: #1
Fri Oct 17, 2008 11:36 AM
A great article. I wonder if the tide might be turned if local election ballots or addendums contained non-binding polling questions such as 1. Are you satisfied with your elected congressman/senator's efforts to correct the financial condition of Medicare? 2.......to consider and debate term limits and age limits for congress? 3.....to seriously address lobbying restrictions which might significantly limit abuses? 4....prohibit earmarks?
I suspect such a vehicle for gathering public opinions, which would surely be well publicized, might have strong influence on improving congressional action on the most important subjects and hopefully away from the minor significance issues such as steroid use by professional athletes.
Food for thought. Keep up your very beneficial articles.
Scott Broaddus, Glen Allen, VA
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Posted by: JEQuidam
Comment: #2
Sat Oct 18, 2008 1:03 PM
To better understand the arguments in favor of increasing the number of federal representatives, and therefore decreasing the size of the congressional districts, please read the 15 Questions & Answers on:
http://www.Thirty-Thousand.org
Thirty-Thousand.org is a non-partisan and non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
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Posted by: Stone
Comment: #3
Sun Oct 19, 2008 4:28 PM
Thank you, Dr. Williams.
Until I read this column today, I confess to not realizing that the number of representatives had been capped. With the election of Obama, a full political monopoly will be realized. In pre-nuclear times, this would have been devastating enough. But in today's world, we can have no expectation of a peaceful return to our republican American system.
For those who profess to believe in limited government and liberty, this issue, right along with the replacement of the legalized theft known as income tax, should be at or near the top of our agenda.
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Posted by: Sam Harris
Comment: #4
Wed Oct 15, 2008 12:17 PM
Walter,
As always you seem to be right on target with your thinking and comments. We should all examine our American history and try to get the representation that we deserve from our elected officials. I hope to see your articles more often and I will forward your writtings as often as possible to spread the word.
Sincerly, Sam Harris; President Detroit Glass Dealers Association.
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