I am going to join the chorus in voting no against authorizing a constitutional convention which comes up for a statewide vote on Nov. 8. Just because it is slated for a vote every 10 years, and this year is one of those years, it does not mean that we need a convention. The effectiveness of the state constitution has been proven over time, and the provision for enabling amendments proposed through the state legislature has worked well. Through this process, an amendment approved by two-thirds of the legislature is brought to the citizens of Alaska for a vote. If an amendment is needed, I am much more comfortable voting on an amendment proposed through this method, rather than voting on a package of amendments that may ensue after a new convention. I encourage all to vote on Nov. 8 and vote against holding a constitutional convention.
Chuck Smythe,
Juneau
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