Opponents of collective bargaining for public employees make a strong, albeit unintended, case for redistricting reform. Critics say collective bargaining permits unions to play crucial roles in the election of officials who will determine labor contracts. They would be electing their own bosses, who would remain dependent on union swag and sway. The taxpayers would be stuck with the bill. Republicans and conservatives make the argument, and it is an effective one.
But what of redistricting? Under the current system, legislators draw the lines for the districts they are kind enough to represent. They choose their own voters. Gerrymandering protects their own kind.
Collective bargaining for public employees is a mistake. Virginia does not practice it. Redistricting reform is overdue.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement