While listening to the seemingly never-ending battle over Florida election rules today, it occurred to me that it would be wise for each state to review their election processes and related statutes to ensure that they are clear and not in conflict with each other. I would suggest each state conduct a review and make amendments if deemed necessary. It is very important that all processes be clearly defined. If this wasn’t evident, the goings-on in Florida should make it so. I would bet that Florida probably thought it had things under control. Isn’t it amazing what millions of dollars worth of attorneys can do to rip holes in a process?

Each state should prepare certificates of understanding that must be signed by persons appearing on state ballots to certify that they have reviewed, understand, and agree to existing state election laws. This would not preclude legitimate contests, but would make clear that any timeliness or processes were clearly understood and agreed to beforehand.

Based upon the evidence of late, I am glad Al Gore’s title is vice president, and hope that is as close as he ever gets to the top.

Michael Spellman

Bangor