.MTU0MA.MTU1NTY

282

[Governors Message]

power of the people. It enables the prevailing interest of a State, at the expense of every other to secure to itself the whole representation, affords a greater opportunity for under influence; in the selection of candidates; is often burdensome in the filling of single vacancies, and usually inconvenient in its general operation Having been accustomed in this State to elect by districts, the Legislature will undoubtedly, have regard to the habits, and what may be presumed to be the wishes of our constituents. In laying off the districts, it will be impossible in all cases, to conform to county lines, as some of the counties contain a population greater, and others less than the requisite number for a Representative. But it will be practicable in most cases as it is desirable in all, to connect together a population who have the same interests to be represented, who have a general center of business or who have become habituated to acting together for similar purposes. Districts thus formed, comprised of contiguous territory, the exterior limits of which being nearly of equal distance from a common centre and as far as possible conforming to county lines, or natural boundaries, will be in accordance with the views of the executive; and undoubtedly most consonant to the just wishes of all interested. The manner of appointing electors of President and Vice President has been different in the several States, and in the same State at different periods. An uniform and permanent mode of effecting these appointments throughout all the States, would have a tendency to ensure a fair expression of public opinion, and an equal influence in the final choice - There have