[StBernard] national primary

[Westley Annis]

Even without discussing the electoral college system created at a time when
mail was delivered on horseback and few citizens could read and write, I am
surprised there is no public outcry for a single primary presidential
election day.  By the time that a few states, which are not representative
of the country's voters, and the media, whittle away the candidates, is it
any wonder that the decision for president is practically made for us by
narrowing the field?

Not only would it save millions in campaign costs (maybe that's the reason
the media for doesn't object to the status quo which creates millions in ad
revenue), but it would level the playing field.  The first Tuesday in
February could be a national primary day for Republicans and Democrats and
any other party with multiple candidates.

Of course, as you delve into the whole nomination process i.e.,
superdelegates, delegates not bound to the state's results, etc. the primary
system we have now is a farce. Seems like a few powerful people behind the
scenes ( and the media by their coverage) decide for the whole nation and
candidates that may have had widespread popular support drop to the wayside.
What a waste of talented candidates who may have made great leaders had they
survived the system or  been put  on  a primary nationwide ballot on the
same day. 

We haven't progressed much since the election of George Washington and I
think those who control the two party system like it that way. Naturally,
the person elected to be president isn't going to bite the hand that feeds
him/her and call for reform.  Perhaps it's just a reminder that the US is
NOT a democracy, but a republic. ddk