Same-day registration right move for Iowa
Editorial
DI Editorial Board
Issue date: 3/23/07 Section: Opinions
- Page 1 of 1
American voter turnout is notoriously low compared with most other postindustrial democracies. This is alarming and a black mark on our democratic system of government. The Iowa House has passed a bill allowing voters to register on Election Day, a move that can only help streamline an often confusing and convoluted process. The Iowa Senate will now tackle the subject. This bill bolsters democracy in Iowa, and we applaud its purpose.
At present, voters must register 10 days before primary or general elections. Republicans contend that enabling same-day registration will increase the chances of voter fraud - an assertion not supported by any evidence. Proof of residency and photo identification would still be required to register; additionally, registrants would be compelled to sign oaths demonstrating they understand submitting false information is illegal and that they face penalties of up to $7,500 and five years in jail. These are serious deterrents to ballot-box stuffers. Though there may be isolated instances of fraud - it's impossible to simply eliminate chances of it occurring - elections in the state will not devolve into chaos because of same-day registration.
College towns such as Iowa City could uniquely benefit from a change in registration rules. Many UI students vote, but do so in their hometowns via absentee ballot. Additionally, many newcomers to Iowa City - most students included - don't register here, or they miss the deadline. Either way, our voices on local issues go unheard. Same-day registration could allow UI students the opportunity to influence our community's politics. We would be able to elect leaders who would keep our interests in mind and better understand how our lives in Iowa City are affected by municipal and county laws.
Americans' faith in government is far too low for a healthy democracy. Turnout levels hovering around 50 percent for presidential elections are embarrassing. Even lower turnout results in midterm elections; state, county, and municipal votes draw even less interest. In every American election, a plurality of votes is not cast. We should make all efforts to change this.
If enacted, the bill would take effect Jan. 1, 2008, well in advance of the '08 presidential election.
Changing registration laws will not restore strong beliefs in government overnight. Many Americans are cynical about politics, and these feelings cannot be overcome by a change in law. But opening the franchise to encourage voting can have positive effects on the system. Every additional citizen who votes strengthens democracy.
There is no good reason to maintain a 10-day period between the final day to register to vote and Election Day. College students should be especially in favor of this proposed change, because it allows them to easily take advantage of their constitutional right to vote.
We support the proposed change and its quick transition into law.
At present, voters must register 10 days before primary or general elections. Republicans contend that enabling same-day registration will increase the chances of voter fraud - an assertion not supported by any evidence. Proof of residency and photo identification would still be required to register; additionally, registrants would be compelled to sign oaths demonstrating they understand submitting false information is illegal and that they face penalties of up to $7,500 and five years in jail. These are serious deterrents to ballot-box stuffers. Though there may be isolated instances of fraud - it's impossible to simply eliminate chances of it occurring - elections in the state will not devolve into chaos because of same-day registration.
College towns such as Iowa City could uniquely benefit from a change in registration rules. Many UI students vote, but do so in their hometowns via absentee ballot. Additionally, many newcomers to Iowa City - most students included - don't register here, or they miss the deadline. Either way, our voices on local issues go unheard. Same-day registration could allow UI students the opportunity to influence our community's politics. We would be able to elect leaders who would keep our interests in mind and better understand how our lives in Iowa City are affected by municipal and county laws.
Americans' faith in government is far too low for a healthy democracy. Turnout levels hovering around 50 percent for presidential elections are embarrassing. Even lower turnout results in midterm elections; state, county, and municipal votes draw even less interest. In every American election, a plurality of votes is not cast. We should make all efforts to change this.
If enacted, the bill would take effect Jan. 1, 2008, well in advance of the '08 presidential election.
Changing registration laws will not restore strong beliefs in government overnight. Many Americans are cynical about politics, and these feelings cannot be overcome by a change in law. But opening the franchise to encourage voting can have positive effects on the system. Every additional citizen who votes strengthens democracy.
There is no good reason to maintain a 10-day period between the final day to register to vote and Election Day. College students should be especially in favor of this proposed change, because it allows them to easily take advantage of their constitutional right to vote.
We support the proposed change and its quick transition into law.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Steve Barquist
posted 3/23/07 @ 9:10 PM CST
What is to prevent the UI student (or anybody else) from voting at thier home town and in Iowa City or Ames (or wherever).
Most have enough id from home and school to show "proof of residency. (Continued…)
Post a Comment