BCT Editorial – 8/4/10

Of interest to me was the Times support of a voice vote in lieu of a roll call vote.  The editorial said, “In addition to reflecting the general acceptance of the measure, the voice vote also meant that members of the highly partisan House of Representatives - and in an election year - saw no political gain in making a big deal over its repeal.  For once, gotcha politics was put aside and good governance prevailed.”  Whether or not you believe the vote was an example of “good governance,” indisputable is the fact voice votes undermine individual accountability.  In contrast to roll call votes, voice votes allow our representatives to hide in the crowd.  All votes should be roll call votes.