Mainers should reject Question 1

To the Editor;

A voter ID law in Maine could significantly affect nearly 350,000 Maine voters. This impact is disproportionately focused on the elderly, rural residents, and low-income individuals.

As concerned, informed Mainers, we have long prided ourselves being among the leaders in the nation in voter turnout. However, a dangerous ballot measure presented as a “voter ID” initiative threatens to roll back our state’s long history of making it easier for eligible citizens to vote. This November, we must vote “no” on the referendum to protect voting access for all Maine voters.

While its proponents focus on photo identification, the initiative is a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” that bundles in several restrictive changes. The official ballot question is clear: It would “end ongoing absentee voter status for seniors and people with disabilities,” “eliminate two days of absentee voting,” and “limit the number of drop boxes.” These changes would disproportionately harm vulnerable voters, including the elderly, rural residents, and those with disabilities, who rely on absentee voting.

We believe the arguments in favor of the measure are based on a false premise. Claims of widespread voter fraud in Maine are unfounded, as past investigations have confirmed there is little to no history of voter impersonation. Furthermore, Maine’s existing voter laws — including same-day registration — have made our democracy stronger and more accessible.

The referendum is not about ensuring “election integrity,” it looks like a transparent attempt to suppress the vote. We should reject this effort to make voting more difficult and instead continue to champion a system that encourages, rather than discourages, full civic participation.

Joel J. Vail

Milo