Our chapter on federalism discusses the importance of state legislatures. At the Washington Post, Chris Cillizza addresses this point, likening them to baseball's minor leagues:
But, like the minor leagues — where potential stars hone their craft — the state legislatures matter more than most people realize. Not only are they an incubator for young political talent but they also produce tons of legislation that draws national attention.
A few examples:
* The Arizona legislature’s controversial immigration bill, the most stringent in the country.
* The Virginia legislature’s bill regarding mandatory ultrasounds — transvaginal and otherwise.
* The photo identification law in Pennsylvania that has become a touchpoint in the broader voter ID fight nationally.
* The North Carolina House and Senate agreed to put Amendment One, affirming that marriage is between a man and a woman, on the ballot earlier this year.
There are lots (and lots) of other. But they all point to the same thing: State legislatures matter — big time.
