On Nov. 8, Mainers will have the opportunity, and the privilege, to cast their vote in the 2011 elections.

This year, a very important question is on the ballot one that will require a “yes” or “no” answer. I urge anyone reading this to please vote “yes” on Question 1.

The issue at hand is election day voter registration, something our state has had for almost 40 years without any significant problems. We have a great tradition in Maine of voter participation and involvement in local government. Why not keep this vibrant tradition alive by continuing to permit our residents to both register and vote on election day?

Many Mainers have two or even three jobs. Without election day voter registration in place, they might find it quite a challenge to juggle their two or three job schedules, register to vote on one day, and then cast their vote on another.

Same-day voter registration is of paramount importance to older voters, too. It can provide an opportunity to vote to those with mobility issues or transportation concerns. Traditionally, older Americans are the most active voters of any age group, and this is certainly true in Maine.

We should enable voter participation in any way possible, not making it harder for our citizens to register and vote.

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Right now our voter registration process is both simple and efficient. Let’s keep it that way.

Please vote yes on Question 1 on Nov. 8.

Dick Farnsworth

AARP Maine Executive Council

Portland

Jane Margesson

Communications director

AARP Maine, Portland


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