November 17 2004

Having No Choice Increases Apathy

As the husband of Kim Hynes, a Democratic challenger in the 149th Assembly District, I feel compelled to comment on Robert Satter's Other Opinion article [Nov. 16, "A Legislature Beholden - But Not To The Voters"].

Satter paints a bleak picture that I worry might further discourage people from running for office and asks the critical question: "What kind of a legislature results from such elections?"

Another critical question needs to be asked: What kind of citizens result from such elections?

Without a choice on the ballot, people have even less opportunity and motivation to learn about the issues that face our state and to get involved in finding solutions.

Not only do we need to re-evaluate the way districts are drawn and people are elected, we must also work hard to encourage people to become more involved in the electoral process and to run for office.

Aldon M. Hynes
Stamford