I’m a Big Fan of NOTA [PHIL-OSOPHY]

I got a chuckle when I read that "Nobody" is running for mayor in New Hampshire.

His name was Richard Goyan Paul, before he petitioned and legally changed it to a one-word name, Nobody. The Keene, New Hampshire resident with a lengthy criminal record isn't deterred that he's a long shot. His light bulb lit up when he saw a political sign that said, "Vote for Nobody" in the yard of the flophouse where he lives.

I'll keep you posted as to Nobody's political success.

In the meantime, I've always believed "None of the above" should be on the ballot because it probably would improve turnout, seeing that the recent preliminary election in New Bedford attracted just 9.5 percent of the registered voters.

Think about how much more effective NOTA would be than campaign-finance reform in reducing the obvious advantages of incumbency. Imagine a seasoned, long-time politician losing an election to NOTA, regardless of how hopelessly gerrymandered or one-party dominated the district is.

How many times have you looked at the candidates and said this election is about bad versus worse? Would you consider giving NOTA a plunk?

I'd love to voice the political ad, "If the candidates don't change, we've got to change the candidates. At the voting booth, select NOTA – a reliable option. Paid for by the None of the Above Committee."

Don't laugh. Isn't giving you a better choice one of the things American democracy should be about?

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.