Cybervoting debate sends a good message

The current debate among USA TODAY readers over cybervoting is a healthy sign for democracy. Indeed, the information technology and communications revolution is certain to embrace electronic voting and advance voter participation simply because it's inevitable.

Clearly, the Internet has created an explosion of information consumers, including voters, who are breaking away from the confines of narrow politics and shallow campaigns. Many voters are rejecting the two-party system, media influence over elections and the machinations of political advisors.

The demand for participatory democracy is increasing because of the Internet. With the remarkable speed of advanced technology, systems of secure Intranets could easily be connected to voter's homes. Build it and they will come. Participation would increase, voter apathy would decrease and the American people would gain better understanding and cooperation between themselves.

With more direct democracy, voters could decide the most important issues such as taxation and major public policy. With interactive voting networks, who knows? Maybe there wouldn't be a need for campaign financing, lobbyists, political pundits, or a two-party system that dominates elections and government. Maybe we could handle it ourselves over the nonpartisan voting networks. It's called self-government.

Daniel B. Jeffs, Founder
The Direct Democracy Center
Apple Valley, Calif.