In an era when opinion surveys reveal low public confidence in political institutions, it is important for steps to be taken to ensure that elected officials are held as accountable to the citizenry as possible.

For that reason, I believe that Maryland's Constitution should be amended to provide for the election of the State House of Delegates every two years instead of every four years.

This would bring Maryland in line with most of the other states in our union. More importantly, allowing the voters to exercise their franchise for holders (and seekers) of this office every two years will help focus the attention of those who govern on the needs of the governed, lessening the likelihood that their attention may drift away from their constituents over the course of their term.

In a republican form of government, one that is grounded in a commitment to democratic principles, the vote of the electorate is the most important check on state legislatures and individual legislators. Holding more frequent elections for Maryland's lower House will maximize the opportunities for our citizens to make their voices heard in the formulation of state public policy.

Jason Booms

Wilde Lake