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Secrecy is the enemy of freedom By Joe Negron One of the most important foundations of western democracy is the belief that all governmental power derives its legitimacy from the consent of the governed. In order for citizens to exercise their sovereignty in an informed capacity, at least two conditions must be present. First, the business of government must be conducted with reasonable notice and in open view. Secrecy is the enemy of freedom. The people must be able to observe and monitor the actions of government. Therefore, exceptions to our sunshine laws should be rare and limited. Second, a free and independent press is essential so that citizens can get facts on their government from a neutral source. Information is power and public access to the documents of government is an important check against abuse of power. On this occasion of Sunshine Sunday, we can renew our commitment to open government and the benefits it provides to all Floridians. Joe Negron, who is seeking the Republican nomination in the race for attorney general of Florida, is the state representative for District 82, serving Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties, and is chairman of the Appropriations Committee. |