Written by Phil Marrone   

The occupiers, the 99% movement, have come to an understanding that they will never come to an understanding. What I mean by that is, frankly, they are all too different to ever agree on specific policy recommendations. What does a goldbug Ron Paul-er have in common with a Union Socialist or a Social Democrat? Certainly, they are both human beings who work for a living (or would like to, but may not be able to as events would have it) and they are all upset about the bailouts; but while a Socialist or Social Democrat might welcome the involvement in the financial system that a Central Bank might bring, a Ron Paul-er will chant "End the Fed", and as someone with a degree in Economics I can sympathize with both positions. Something, however, is seriously wrong with our electoral system if these issues were not vented via the ballot box in last year's elections. This is a problem for our country, and for our 99% movement if it is not remedied. The following is a list of reforms we can all agree upon:

1.) Proportional Representation. This would ensure that more than 51% of voters have a say; in essence, the other 49% would be represented also. If the Social Democratic Party received 3% in an election, they are awarded 3% of the seats in the Assembly. This means more choices in parties, more choices in candidates, and is a welcome reform in line with the original intent of the Founding Fathers who wanted to make it difficult for any one faction (or Party) to take over the nation. This accomplishes that while empowering voters.

2.) National Ballot Initiatives & Referendum Process. I am sick of hearing America is a "democracy", when voters have no say in actual policy formation. This would accomplish that, and allow people a chance to take an active role in government, more so than simply running for office. One recommended although not requires addendum to this would be to place strings on it, for example no War or Tax increase without a referendum. This forces politicians to begs us for it; also, no ballot initiative should be used to infringe on any group or individual's rights.

3.) Recall elections. The time has come for the people of this country to be able to remove unproductive parties in power when they work against the people. This might have saved billions of dollars and a Million lives overseas.

4.)Federal Reserve reform. Why is it that the leaders of the banks that committed massive fraud leading up to this recession are sitting on Boards at their local Federal Reserve branches? Time to have a more democratic selection process for governorship at the Fed.