Forum Post: Internet nomination of alternative candidates

We need viable alternatives to the Democrats and Republicans. With so much discontent with our elected officials, and with the ability to reach millions of people in a short time at little cost through the internet, I believe an internet nominating process offers the best way to nominate viable alternative candidates. The other day I discovered that an organization called Americans Elect was doing just that. While I love the idea, I have several problems with the way they are going about it. First, they want to start at the top – the presidency. I think the process would be better served by starting at the local level, building from the ground up and working out the kinks, before reaching the national stage. Second, because they are starting at the top, experienced politicians are likely to dominate the process. I want to nominate experts in fields such as law, economics, and public policy, who can work their way up the political ranks insulated from the corrupting influence of money and party politics. Lastly, they refuse to disclose their donors. I will not support any political organization that is not completely transparent, especially with their finances. Here is my attempt at designing an online nominating process. While writing, I noticed all my points started with E. I hope you agree that six Es are better than Herman Cain’s three 9s.

Expert – Candidates will be experts in law, economics, and/or public policy, from the community they wish to represent, and will have distinguished themselves in some way outside of politics.

Expense – Candidates will conduct campaigns through a website run by a non-profit. They will be able to submit documents and videos as well as participate in online debates, town halls, and interviews on the site. Candidates are free to campaign through other media and may participate in traditional campaigning; however, the process should allow for attractive candidates to gain significant exposure without spending much money. If a kid with a crazy pet and a camera can reach millions of people on youtube, surely a smart, charismatic future president can as well. The ultimate goal would be to mitigate the corrupting influence of money on our political process.

Educate – The website will also be a place for voter education. Type in your address and get info on candidates, elected officials, and legislation that is as cursory or as in-depth as you choose.

Exchange – The website will allow an exchange of information between currently elected officials, potential candidates, and the public at large through individual messaging, polling, and voting. Elected officials will know exactly where their constituents stand on the issues before voting on legislation and will be able to explain to their constituents why they voted a certain way.

Engage – There is a disconnect between the public and their elected officials that leaves many voters feeling disenfranchised. Providing resources by which the public can actively participate in the political process will result in a much more engaged populace.

Empower – Starting at the local then the state levels before entering the national political arena will allow for the expert non-politician to gain political experience and be better prepared to take on the Washington establishment. At every step, they will be directly accountable to all of to their constituents, not just the wealthy. Because they have a more vested interest, the electorate will be more knowledgeable and engaged. The net result will be a much more direct democracy that empowers the people instead of corporate donors, lobbyists, government contractors, and the politicians themselves.

Let me know what you think.