To the editor:
Voting is a fundamental right. However, the Republican-controlled Wisconsin Legislature has proposed two constitutional amendments that show a lack of concern for voters and our hard-working local election administrators. The changes would affect the safety and security of our elections and will prevent voters from making their voices heard.
These amendments are rooted in disinformation to sway voter opinion and foster voter apathy and confusion. Amendments are supposed to better the constitution, but these attempts at change restrict voting rights and undermine the foundations of our democracy. Gov. Tony Evers has already vetoed these same changes in a bill sent to him by the legislature.
The first question would limit critical funding for our elections without a plan to ensure election administrators have the tools they need. How long we wait in lines, how many voting locations are open and the speed of the results are all determined by the amount of money that is set aside by the state to fund our election. Our elections should be fully funded by the state government so municipalities don’t have to rely on grants or donations to process elections.
The second question would deprive election officials of outside help. Clerks rely on experts in the field of election administration, volunteers and community members to make sure our elections run smoothly and the results are accurate. A handful of Republican politicians would choose to make their jobs more difficult. It has already become an issue to maintain our clerks in these stressful positions with the hostilities directed at them.
These amendments will be voted upon soon! In the April 2 spring election, we have the chance to come together and show that our votes matter. Join me in voting “no” on both constitutional amendments. By doing so, you register your commitment to keep false information and conspiracies from undermining and degrading our elections and our form of government. Visit myvote.wi.gov to view your ballot and find your polling place.
Patty Luff, Marion
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