We can have the elected leaders we want, need and deserve

Arizonans are frustrated with our current elected leaders and losing ground economically because of their lack of results. According to the Center for the Future of Arizona, only 37 percent of Arizonans, across the political spectrum, believe our elected leaders focus on long-term visionary planning for the future.

Reform doesn't ask people to work harder within the existing framework. Real reform must deliver hope for justice and unity. It should increase the number of choices voters have, increase competition, and ensure the leaders elected are accountable to the will of the majority of the electorate.

To quote Arizona's Maverick-in-chief John McCain: "Instant run off voting will lead to good government because voters will elect leaders who have the support of a majority."

Independent voters in Arizona represent more than one-third of the electorate. Our current system doesn't treat them fairly. Independent candidates must gather up to six times the number of signatures as party candidates to qualify to run for office. Independent voters cannot participate fully in the primary election.

Our recent July primary turnout was the lowest in nearly twenty years. Less than 27 percent of registered voters participated. If we assume half of those voted in each major party primary, 13.5 percent of registered voters participated. A 50+ percent majority would be 6.75 percent. Less than 7 percent of Arizona registered voters determined the winners of each primary and many of the general election races!

Open primaries, where everyone participates, are necessary for the effective functioning of a representative democracy. More citizens must be part of the process of choosing our future leaders.

Advancing five candidates gives every Arizonan a real choice in the November elections. Using an instant runoff will deliver fast and secure results while ensuring all Arizonans have their voices heard. The system is working in Alaska where legislators must now represent all, or at least a majority, of their constituents. "We decided we're going to stay on the ideas that we can find agreement on—which is the economy, public safety, education and a balanced budget. It's just been delightful," says Cathy Giessel, the state Senate President of the Alaska State Senate and a Republican.

Arizonans deserve a truly representative election system and a government that focuses more on solving problems than on mudslinging, gridlock, and continual pandering to a partisan base. If we are going to save democracy, we must be bold and strive for reform that will truly be effective for all Arizonans.

The path forward is clear: equal signatures, open primaries, and a top-five instant runoff general election will give Arizonans the elected leaders we want, need, and deserve. We can deliver better leaders and better elections.