How to Fix Politics

There are two things that can be done to fix politics: one really big fix, and one minor fix.

The big fix is about campaign finance reform: take money out of politics. By that I mean, outlaw the use of private funding of political campaigns, and find a fair way to provide taxpayer money to fund individuals who choose to run for office.

If this is ruled by the Supreme Court to be unconstitutional (e.g., based on the "free speech" argument), then we should amend the Constitution accordingly.

Imagine if rich people, corporations, and special interests had no more power over politicians than ordinary citizens. Imagine a system where fairness has the upper hand over special interests and the powerful. Imagine if Congress debated issues based on what was best for our nation. Imagine if our elected leaders has time to actually speak to their constituents (even if at random) instead of listening to the opinions of the powerful and rich over and over again.

Not only do politicians spend way too much time on fundraising, but the current system corrupts them and does not serve the public. This deficiency is so widespread and affects so many policies in a negative way that it is one of the most important issues of our time.

The minor fix would be to change the format of political debates so that each debate includes only two candidates and no moderator. For example, if the field includes 9 candidates, then there would be 5 debates with the candidates chosen at random so that each candidate participates in at least one debate and one (and only one) randomly selected candidate participates in two debates (because 9 is an odd number). The debates should have an open format with no set rules. The public can judge the candidates not only on their views on issues but also on their decorum, wit, and leadership attributes (or lack of same). The idea is to get away from a contest of public relations and political consultants and get back to the basics: where do the candidates stand, and how well do they defend their positions. Certainly, a good politician needs both the right position on issues and the ability to lead others to agree with him or her.