We live in a representative democracy where bipartisanship is the buzzword. But somehow, in Connecticut only the Democrats are represented in final budget negotiations between the majority party and the governor. This should not be an option for our representatives. The state Constitution should stipulate that all parties should be participating in proportion to their representation.

Southeastern Connecticut elected Sen. Paul Formica, a Republican, who proved himself to be a fiscally responsible leader over successive administrations in East Lyme. Yet Formica's constituents are unrepresented at the budget negotiations. No wonder fewer and fewer voters are participating in such our representative democracy.

John King

East Lyme