Editorial: Checks and balances are this year's ballot issue

Checks and balances. They've been a fundamental premise of our system of government since the founders first began contemplating how the original colonies should be joined as one.

That's why we have wthree branches of government, each intended to carry equal weight.

That's why, for that matter, we have freedom of speech and press, why there are protections that ensure public access to government meetings and records - so that the governed may provide a check on the governors.

Checks and balances. They are, ultimately, our pre-eminent safeguard against autocracy.

This year, perhaps as never before or at least more than in recent memory, checks and balances will be a central election issue.

Do we allow President Donald Trump free rein to impose his agenda without the necessity of bargaining or compromise with the loyal opposition?

In particular, given the cynical approach so many House Republicans seem to have taken to the Mueller investigation - despite its numerous indictments and the universal intelligence assessments of Russian meddling - do we want Mueller's ultimate findings to be debated by politics and judged by partisanship?

Conversely, in Illinois, do we allow Democrats control of all three branches of government to carry out the party's agenda without apparent constraint?

Do we leave matters such as a graduated income tax, public pensions, casino gambling, immigration and school funding to one party to decide without the need to consult with the other?

November 6 seems like a long way away, and of course, it is.

But Election Day will be here before we know it, and, in fact, the early voting period is less than two months away.

The angry advertisements are already showing up on television and in the direct mail.

We have always believed in judging candidates on an individual basis, by that candidate's qualifications, temperament and ideas.

We've always split our ticket, never been tempted by a straight-party voting option.

But checks and balances matter. Especially this year.

So, for example, Republicans like Rep. Peter Roskam and Rep. Randy Hultgren have to do more than show their credentials or articulate their philosophies. They have to show, concretely, their willingness and fortitude to challenge Trump when necessary. Their independence matters, this election year more than ever.

And, for example, a Democrat like J.B. Pritzker has to do more than smile and question Gov. Bruce Rauner's competence. He has to show, unequivocally, that he can stand apart from House Speaker Michael Madigan - not with slogans or puppies, but with deeds. His independence matters, too, this election year more than ever.