Page:Back to the Republic.djvu/94

 We have four types of government in this country: national, State, county and city. Each has separate and distinct functions to perform, and yet we are in a constant turmoil of confusion because we do not consider them one at a time and also make each type adhere strictly to the standard form. We carry on national, State, county and city elections at one and the same time, so that the issues are confused and candidates for local office are carried through on the national ticket regardless of fitness or standing on local questions.

It is high time that we should undertake the adoption of a clear, concise, comprehensive and constructive plan that would make for economy of energy and expense; for real efficiency in service and administration; for effectiveness in expressing the will of the people and securing results that mean real progress.

The following plan, if carried out, would accomplish that and secure the short ballot:

Separate the affairs of nation, State, county and city and consider one type of government each year.

Fix a time for holding one primary and one election each year, as indicated in the outline which is here presented: