The Minneapolis Star-Tribune has this op-ed by Chris Holbrook, criticizing the state’s restrictive definition of “political party.” The state requires a statewide vote of 5%, whereas the median vote test in the 50 states is 2%. Minnesota is one of only eight states with no ballot-qualified parties other than the Democratic and Republican Parties. The others are Alabama, Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington. Thanks to Dave Cummings for the link.
Ballot access laws are an unfair road block to many individuals and civic groups and that’s why equal treatment and equal time at debates for all, including certified write-in candidates, has been key to the success and growth of our team.
Since our team is sub-atomic in size we don’t have much chance for success.
Our best team players have been, and will always be, snuffed out unfairly before the anointed insiders get the special treatment from the entrenched party bosses.
We are proud of the dedication to free speech and political freedoms by our most professional participants.
Only with more hard work, humble sacrifice and random luck will our team search and find the answer.
Fortunately we use search engine tools which are above and beyond the team’s expectations so when we do find those rare successes when we least expect them we are able to experience the satisfaction.
Not because we win or lose but because of how we play our game.
http://www.allpartysystem.com/one.php
The rationale for such tests is that the government has made political parties agents of the state for the purpose of making nominations. Eliminate state recognition of nominations, and the need for thresholds disappears.
ONE election day.
EQUAL nominating petitions by Electors/Voters or filing fees – for EQUAL ballot access.
But doesn’t MN have a liberal standard for Independent nominees? A standard that allows for Independent nominees to select a partisan label?