The Ballot Drama

[Judi Lynn]

The Ballot Drama

By Brian Faler and Chris Cillizza

Monday, September 19, 2005; Page A03

For an odd-numbered year, this fall is offering a surprisingly full roster of compelling political races. The drama is coming not from candidates but from ballot measures, with voters in numerous states poised to vote on politically volatile issues from same-sex marriage to rules for drawing congressional districts.

California leads the pack with eight measures on its ballot. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) has put three of them there, including one that would change the way the Golden State draws its congressional districts to reduce partisan gerrymandering and another that would cap state spending. Voters will also consider whether parental notifications ought to be required before a minor receives an abortion and whether it should be harder for public employee unions to spend their dues on political activities.

Gay rights are on the line in some states. Texas will consider a constitutional amendment to bar same-sex marriage, while Maine voters will decide whether to repeal a state law banning discrimination against gays. Colorado is considering relaxing a state law, cherished by anti-tax activists, that puts strict limits on government spending. Washington state is expected to vote on two dueling measures on medical malpractice. One, sponsored by doctors, would limit awards and fees in malpractice lawsuits. The other, backed by lawyers, would punish physicians involved in three malpractice "incidents." Evergreen State smokers face a fight with a proposal that would ban lighting up in public places.

Ohio is expected to vote on possible changes to its election rules, including one that would change the way it draws congressional districts. Another would give an independent panel -- rather than the secretary of state -- oversight of its elections. New Jersey voters will vote on whether the state should create an office for an elected lieutenant governor. Until now, it has gotten by without a lieutenant governor, but last year's resignation of Gov. James E. McGreevey (D) in a sex scandal put the question of succession back in debate.
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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/18/AR2005091801352.html
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