Nov 01, 2002 — If choice at the ballot box is the foundation of a vigorous democracy, New York State doesn't look too healthy. None of New York's 29 congressional representatives face a competitive challenge. More than 95% of state legislators are expected to win re-election. In the North Country, only 2 of the 7 regional races for state office are close. If democracy is about choosing the best person to govern on our behalf, what happened to that choice? David Sommerstein asks around.