The party line

Early voting begins in Texas one week from today, and the races are heating up. While most of us know the high profile elections, what about those elections people know little about?  Such races that are down-ballot—contests  are not high profile like president,  U.S. Senator, etc.–mean voters may not know who the candidates are, nor do they make informed choices, but they vote all the same.  For that reason, both political parties like to see voters chose the straight-ticket option-selecting “Republican” or “Democrat” and all of their votes automatically count toward the party of choice.

Is that a good idea? That depends. We know in races of lesser importance-like local offices and judicial races—such votes can make a difference, but is that what democracy is about?

The importance of straight-ticket voting cannot be overstated—in urban areas, it can sweep one party into office or another party out depending on the political winds.  Some complain it undermines democracy because the voters are taking a short cut, using party as a proxy for their beliefs. Isn’t that better than just relying on name recognition (the idea that you vote for someone based on the familiarity of the name rather than what his or her politics).   At least with straight-ticket you know you are getting someone who identifies with the same party as you.

Will straight ticket voting make a difference in what is considered to be the most hotly contested race in the state—the match-up between Sen. Wendy Davis (D-Ft. Worth) and challenger state Rep. Mark Shelton (R-Fort Worth)? That is anyone’s guess.  They had the second of four debates on Sunday, and they sparred consistent with the ads they have been putting out there. Most controversial has been the ad by Davis accusing Shelton of not supporting legislation for rape victims.

In the end, Texas leaves all options open by allowing us to select the straight-ticket option, but then letting you go through the ballot and vote for individual races on the ballot in specific races. And that can make all the difference in the world when those down ballot races are tight.

Texas Round-up

In the courts again—Former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay was back in court again regarding his conviction for money laundering and conspiracy charges related to the 2002 elections.

On the road again—Governor Rick Perry has begun previewing his policy priorities for higher education as he goes around the state. What is at the top of the agenda? Governor Perry is advocating for a tuition-freeze to keep a student’s tuition at the same level over the course of their education.  The governor is also supporting $10,000 degrees (the total cost for your degree), along with in-state tuition for undocumented persons.