by Alfredo Parrish
Having been nurtured by some of our country's greatest advocates of voter enfranchisement, I am deeply disappointed with the two recent rulings of the district and Iowa Supreme Court denying Mr. Narcisse an opportunity to appear as a candidate for Governor in the Democratic Primary. Iowa's history of enfranchisement is a cornerstone of its uniqueness. Rules and procedures that are not equally applied to all candidates seeking office diminish the process. It creates cynicism that will weaken a vibrant democratic process.
Although, the judicial system denied Mr. Narcisse a place on the Democratic Primary ballot, it is encouraging that recognition was given to the importance of his claim by considering and deciding his case promptly.
Mr. Narcisse, in his law suit asked to court to consider a fair and impartial review of a candidate's nomination papers, an equitable rule for all candidates and distinguishing technical violations from substantive ones. Mr. Narcisse's law suit pointed to clear deficiencies in the nomination process that will lay the groundwork for needed improvements.
