ProPublica is sponsoring ElectionLand which, according to Sunday's Wyoming Tribune-Eagle,
will cover access to the ballot and problems that prevent people from exercising their right to vote during the 2016 election.
If you have trouble on Election Day with long lines, intimidation or machine breakdowns, text ELECTIONLAND to 69866 or visit www.propublica.org/electionland to submit a report.
Data from voters across the country will be pulled together to document problems in real time."Real time" is the important part of this as any violations can ostensibly be addressed while the polls are still open. ProPublica has already posted instances of voter intimidation in early voting. Some southern states, freed from Voting Rights Act laws, have decreased the number of polling places, which resulted in huge lines to vote in this year's Arizona primary. In Cheyenne, we have fewer polling places as we now go to voting centers (find one here). This enables us to vote at any of these places instead of our own precinct. So, if you live in Pine Bluffs but work in Cheyenne, you don't have to rush home from work in a snowstorm to cast your ballot (remember 1992?). You can vote in Cheyenne at the Community House in Lions Park (where I used to work as a judge) or at the Berean Church on Powderhouse where I usually vote. Poll workers are friendly and helpful, even when encountered at 6:59 p.m. and the clock is ticking.
Poll watchers may be on hand, too. Sometimes these are precinct committeemen or women, sometimes they are assigned by the county party. Not just any Tom, Dick or Harriet can show up to observe. If you see any shady characters lurking about, report them to the head election judge.
Along with two of my fellow Democrats, I will be giving free rides to the polls on election day. I would like to say that I will drive you in style in my stretch limo. Alas, I have but a modest gray Nissan Sentra. I do provide door-to-door service. I will not harangue you about your vote, although I have strong opinions on the liberal side of things (see previous post). Leave a comment here with address and/or phone number and I will give you a ride. Or call 307-241-2903.
3 comments:
MIKE,
Great to see your service for the election. Please pick me up around 6:45 a.m.
Bob in Independence, MO
Bob: Was that 6:45 my time or your time?
Yes:). Tried to vote at 6:15 am CT and line was out to the street. Waited until 5:45 and line was only halfway. Took an hour but well worth it. Now to sit back and watch the results
Post a Comment