Citizens in Charge

Denver’s KBDI Channel 12 today broadcasted an interview with Paul Jacob, President of Citizens in Charge Foundation, discussing the ballot initiative and referendum (I&R) process. Host Jon Caldera of the Independence Institute asked Jacob questions on reforming the I&R process, its affects on voters and public policy.

Caldera highlights the power of ballot initiatives to bring about changes to the government that would probably not pass in a state legislature such as tax payer bill of rights, imminent domain and term limits.

“No majority of politicians would ever term limit themselves,” says Caldera on term limits.

The average voter supports the initiative process, as it gives them options. Many  Americans see it as part of a checks and balances system.

“I don’t like all the initiatives that pass but you we have to have a process whereby citizens can do the things that they want to be done in the government. We call it direct democracy sometimes but I don’t like that term, it’s not a direct [democracy], it’s a difficult process, you have to collect signatures, you have to convince other voters to go along with it, and there is a long period of debate… a lot of public comment,” said Jacob.

A major point of discontent from critics is the “cluter” the initiative and referendum process creates. Opponent of the process feel too many average citizens create policy and “cluter” the system and such decisions should be left to the “professional” policy makers.

Jacob responds, “the professionals need to know they work for the amateurs.  The amateur, the voters, are the boss.” He reminds Caldera, that elected officials might be “professionals” but they are first public servants. Sometimes politicians don’t take into account what voters want, that is when the ballot initiatve process steps in.

For more view video.