2-Party solution to independent candidate upsurge: Don't let 'em on the ballot.

Rules make it harder for independents to get on the ballot

JULIA SILVERMANAssociated Press

Duluth SuperiorApr. 24, 2006 PORTLAND, Ore. - As gubernatorial races across the country heat up, a handful of independent candidates have emerged nationally who could influence tight races, be it as spoilers or as long-shot victors.
But in order to do so in November, such candidates - who have popped up in Oregon, Texas, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Maine and Alaska - first need to get on the ballot.
And in some states that's far easier said than done, thanks to often-byzantine requirements about who can, and cannot, sign petitions.....more


In a related article:
Law treats independents as a party, reducing voters' options

RON EACHUS

Oregon Statesman JournalApril 24, 2006[

If you're a registered Republican or Democrat, tired of unproductive petty political partisanship, disgruntled at the prospect of a Ted Kulongoski-vs.-Kevin Mannix rerun for governor and intrigued by the possibility of a viable independent candidate such as Ben Westlund, then you have a dilemma.
Under a new law, if you want to preserve your right to help get an independent on the ballot, you have two options in the upcoming primary election. You can change your registration to non-affiliated by April 25 (that's tomorrow!). Or you can not vote.
That's the perverse effect of the law passed by the 2005 Legislature. The public's discontent over the paralyzing effect of excessive partisanship and bickering was obvious to the Legislature.....more