www.pacleansweep.com

As you are no doubt aware, the past six months have marked a very intriguing period in Pennsylvania politics. The General Assembly's pay raise vote ignited a controversy that has refused to die. Pennsylvanians from across the ideological spectrum have taken a renewed interest in politics and are eager to have their voices heard.

Dissatisfaction with state government is at a level not witnessed in recent decades. A previously complacent public is now demanding legislative reforms, ethical public servants, and a return to responsive government. The people are understandably tired of backroom politics.

The tidal wave of taxpayer discontent has inspired a record number of citizens to get involved in the political process by running for office. 2006 will see more contested legislative races than any year in recent history. Given the size of our legislature and the nature of legislative districts, a significant portion of the contests will take place in the primary.

The historical trend for party leaders at the local, county, and state level to exert influence over contested primary elections represents a threat to free elections and effective representative government. Pennsylvania taxpayers spend millions on primary elections to provide party membership the opportunity to choose a nominee in a free and fair process. Decisions made by party officials to limit choices or influence the outcome of that process directly conflict with our nation's core democratic values.

The fact that so many members of your party are willing to challenge their elected officials indicates that a significant portion of your membership is considering a change in course. Primary challengers should not be viewed as adversaries, but as members of your party who are concerned about the state of government. They should be embraced, not shunned, by the party.

Accordingly, I am calling upon you to take an historic step to restore public confidence in your party and return the party to its membership. Party leaders at all levels should refrain from endorsing candidates prior to the May 16 primary election.

Voters are demanding real choices. Party leaders who interfere in contested primaries do a disservice to their party, its members, and the spirit of a free electoral system. The time has come for party leaders to take a step back and let the voters decide.

More and more Pennsylvanians feel their elected representatives have grown "out of touch" with the public. Given the current political climate, top-down endorsements are bad government, bad politics, and bad for the health and future of your party.

This letter does not represent a confrontation, but an invitation. It is an invitation for your party to join the growing number of citizens who seek to promote the value of integrity in government. It is an invitation to show that your party's decisions are made by its members and not by a small group of connected individuals. Most of all, it is an opportunity to demonstrate to all Pennsylvanians that your party seeks to represent the voting public, not its incumbents.

I hope you will consider making 2006 the year that your party recognizes the will of the people. By promoting an open exchange of ideas and open primaries, your party can go a long way toward showing all Pennsylvanians that you stand for a government of the people, for the people, and by the people.

Sincerely,
Russ Diamond
Founder and Chair
PACleanSweep