October 11, 2003Voice of the People
"Green Party has alternatives"
For many readers of The Press there will be alternative choices on the ballot this election. In addition to some independents, Green Party candidates are running for the state Legislature in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Districts, as well as for some local positions.
The Green Party has grown since running Ralph Nader for president three years ago. In New Jersey there are 50 Greens on ballots around the state this year, 39 of those for legislative positions.
Neither the Green Party nor its candidates accept contributions from corporations or special interests. In fact, one of our very highest priorities is clean elections, and our one incumbent in the Assembly has introduced a "Clean Elections" bill.
Corporate and special-interest money in the form of campaign contributions has resulted in the deregulation of many industries to the point where they can, in many cases, overcharge the public routinely and with impunity while reaping huge profits.
Corporations have received tax breaks, subsidies and no-bid government contracts. These giveaways to corporations filter down to the local level and wind up being paid for by property taxes.
In addition to stopping this "corporate welfare," Green Party legislative candidates will all advocate some variation of placing higher taxes on the wealthiest citizens. In my view, a progressive state income tax is, and has always been, the most sensible and equitable form of taxation. Only those with a very high income would pay more than they do now.
A vote for the Green Party sends an unambiguous message to the Legislature. The only way to motivate the major parties to give up these lucrative contributions is to stop voting for them. A strong showing by the Green Party in this off-year election could put pressure on the major parties and spark a new national debate on campaign finance reform.
CHARLES WOODROW
Barnsboro
