From the Raleigh News and Observer this morning an editorial lauding the state's existing public financing programs for campaigns in the state and encouraging further expansion of these programs as fast as possible.

The going rate for access and influence at North Carolina's statehouse is in the four figures. Small change for some, a vast sum for others -- and not the foundation upon which relationships between constituents and elected officials should be built.

Get real. Big givers have an edge in gaining access to those they support. They're often appointed to this or that. And if they're not bending the ears of top elected officials, they certainly stand a better chance than Joe Taxpayer of getting some special attention from a staff member.

North Carolina's Voter-Owned Elections public financing program includes candidates for the state Supreme and Appellate Courts and, this year for the first time, three of the Council of State cabinet-level positions. Democracy North Carolina heads up a coalition looking to bring Voter-Owned Elections to more offices.