Representative Government?

I have just returned from a tour of Southern Utah county conventions. The first stop, after a gorgeous drive, was Kanab for the Kane County Convention.

The Democrats I met in Kanab were articulate, involved and concerned about the future of their part of the state. They were also extremely grateful to see state candidates. For these people, the mere fact that a candidate for a statewide office would stop in to talk to them was remarkable. They noted that they never hear from their state representatives, let alone a statewide office holder. Though the attorney general or governor or lieutenant governor might stop in Kanab for a visit, these officials meet with the mayor and state representative, not the "common" people.

And that is wrong. Public officials represent all of the people, not just those with political positions or power. The Democrats in Kanab deserve as much time with their public officials as the Republican mayor or Republican representative or senator. These are citizens, voters, and taxpayers. That their views may not fall in line with a particular party does not mean their opinions, concerns, or votes have any less merit. To disenfranchise an entire section of the state in this manner is not what representative democracy is about.

Once again, my time on the trail convinces me even more of the need for change in our public offices. We NEED contrary voices to spur the kind of debate that ensures the best public policies and the most representative government. We need statewide officials from both parties to ensure that all voters, citizens, and taxpayers have a voice in issues of statewide concern.