NO on Referendum 1
I have had the unique and honored experience of public service over the years of including Registrar of Voters, Plantation Clerk, Selectman, and a State Representative.
In that career, I lost two elections, each decided by recounts. One election was decided by six votes!!!! Those recounts were fair and square. The Maine State election system for many years has had a strong history of accuracy and valid elections.
Referendum 1 goes too far. When you register to vote, you have to provide proof of residency. Concerns about voter ID are exaggerated. Many of our neighbors are shift workers; others are elderly or disabled, lack computer accessibility and/or no longer drive. If Question 1 passes, you will no longer be able to request absentee applications by phone for your loved ones, friends and neighbors.
Banning prepaid return postage for absentee ballots will also be banned.
As a former member of Appropriations and Financial Affair Committee, it’s important to point out this Referendum will cost taxpayers more than a million dollars to implement.
Maine’s election system is secure, efficient and above all fair.
Please join me in voting No on Question 1 on Tuesday, November 4th.
Respectfully,
Sharon H. Libby Jones
Greenville, Maine