Open gov’t: Hold the candidates accountable

The Clarion-Ledger Editorial, 10/17/7

Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Jamie Franks raised eyebrows Monday saying that if elected he would not reappoint Sen. Jack Gordon as Appropriations chairman, unless Gordon opened up the legislative process to the public.

But each legislative candidate – including Gordon, D-Okolona – should be held accountable for openness in government.

What makes Rep. Franks’ statement before The Clarion-Ledger Editorial Board noteworthy is that since 9-11, it seems, the public has grown accustomed to more secrecy in government, merited or not.