In the past few days we have seen why politics in America have transformed into petty, childish arguments between Democrats and Republicans. The articles attacked their traditional rivals, resorted to tactics such as “If you believe in being taxed after death – vote for a democrat.” The real issues are overlooked and the discussion becomes pointless. This does not encourage people to vote, but forces them to look unrealisticly at the issues. Political discussion should address relevant issues, and act as a forum to inform potential voters. I will demonstrate. Ralph Nader has an agenda for a working democracy that includes the following points: Provide public financing for public elections and other basic democratic tools for citizens to de-concentrate the power of the few over the many. Provide consumer-powered, universal, accessible, quality health care for all Americans. Replace restrictive labor laws with laws enabling the expansion of democratic trade unions and decent living standards. Protect consumers, workers, and the environment with strong law enforcement, updated anti-corporate crime, fraud and abuse laws and usable civil rights of action. Replace the facile rhetoric of politicians with actual programs that protect, preserve and enhance the well-being and education of children. Provide taxpayers with the tools to end corporate welfare – subsidies, giveaways, bailouts and waste – and move for the expenditure of government funds as if people matter. Provide citizen facilities for the vigorous defense of civil rights, civil liberties, and the liberation of the political and civic energies of the American people in domestic, environmental, military and foreign policy. Nuture a society where non-commercial values matter more. If you are interested in educating yourself on the relevant issues this campaign year, I encourage you to attend the Iowa State GREEN Party meetings on Tuesdays in the Commons of the Memorial Union at 7:00 p.m. or visit the Ralph Nader Web site at www.votenader.org. Derrick Hochstatter

Senior

Liberal Studies