50% Legislative Turnover Projected

There are always shakeouts, dropouts and knockouts following redistricting, but this year could see a turnover in our legislature approaching 50 percent. In normal cycles you can expect changes, even as high as one-third of the 170 members can take the oath for the first time, but this time is different. Many Democrats, out of power for the first time since Reconstruction, just don't find the reward or fun in serving...especially if they are "double-bunked" with other incumbents. But when we see Richard Stevens, a Republican Senate leader, announce he won't run we must acknowledge that things are not well on Jones Street.

What's the problem with new faces, you ask? We need fresh ideas and energy, especially in this time when the economy still languishes. That's a good thing and certainly needed, but with the exodus in tenure we also lose the historical memory and experience that go with it. Lacking that experience and memory lawmakers must depend on legislative staff more than is currently the case. We never voted for a single staffer, yet they bring their biases and political leanings into conducting research, drafting bills and guiding legislation.

If pollsters are correct folks aren't pleased with the direction our legislature has been taking...not just in this past session but even when Democrats were in control. We were likely to see that displeasure voiced come November, but this legislative election cycle is going to be unique. The flag has dropped and the races are on. Should be fun to watch.