Election Reform

Dear Editor:

The Supreme Court ruling which struck down several provisions in major campaign finance laws is a blow to American democracy. This decision means that, more than ever, the decision-making process is in the hands of BIG-big business, big labor, and big special interest groups.

Not too long ago, a person's vote really counted. This was when candidates fleshpedaled and kissed babies and shook hands. This was before multi-billion dollar campaigns came along; campaigns highlighted by huge contributions and costly television commercials.

Now, with big-and bigger-dollars controlling the electoral process, the personal touch is gone from U.S. democracy. This ruling will discourage more and more Americans from voting. We already have the lowest election day turnout of any free nation.

With the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, the American government might as well be divided into three new branches-the Big Business branch, the Big Labor branch, and the Big Special Interest Groups branch. Our founding fathers would be appalled at what has become of the American electoral process.

Sincerely,

David Shipp

Nevada