Prop. 23: It’s None-Sense

Proposition 23 is a political gimmick that sounds good but in fact is a sham that would add nothing to the political process. The initiative measure, sponsored by businessman Alan F. Shugart, would give Californians the option of voting for “none of the above” in elections for federal and state offices. The Times urges a no vote on this measure. There is no need to add empty clutter to the California election ballot.

Proponents say that being able to vote for “none of the above” would allow voters to register discontent with the choice of candidates they had or with the political process. They argue that the only protest they can exercise now is to not vote at all and then be labeled as apathetic. But voting “none of the above” would not be any more meaningful. There would be no way to calibrate the discontent or divine the reason for it. Moreover, voting for none of the above would not alter the outcome of an election. Even if a majority voted “none of the above,” the candidate with the most votes still would win.

With a little study, the voter can cast a ballot that means something. To save California from a political oddity that means and achieves nothing, vote no on Proposition 23.