Exercising Your Right to Vote

Statement

Dear Friends,

Early voting began this week in Idaho for the Nov. 8 General Election. It's been good to see voters lining up all week at Meridian City Hall, where I have a district office.

Unfortunately, voter participation has been declining in Idaho. In the last non-presidential election in 2014, just 38 percent of those 18 years and older voted. That's down from 57 percent in 1986. In the 2012 presidential election, 58 percent voted, down from 69 percent in 1980.

I'm especially concerned about young voters skipping elections. Participation is the essence of democracy and it's important we encourage the next generation to engage. It's worth remembering what Benjamin Franklin said at the close of the Constitutional Convention in 1787 when asked if the Founders had decided on a monarchy or republic.

Replied Franklin: "A republic, if you can keep it."

Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility and it's time for you to have your say. In Idaho, you have three ways to do so: early voting in person, absentee voting by mail or casting your ballot on Election Day.

To vote early in person contact your county clerk's office for information on voting locations and hours at early voting sites across Idaho. Early voting will be available until 5 p.m. Nov. 4.

To vote by mail, complete an Absentee Ballot Request Form and mail it to your county clerk by 5 p.m. Oct. 28. All voted absentee ballots must be received by your county clerk by 8 p.m. on Nov. 8, delivered personally or by mail.

Idaho also makes it convenient to vote on Election Day, when polls will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those who aren't registered -- even if you've never voted -- Idaho is among eight states that allow same-day registration. For details, go to www.idahovotes.gov, the official source for voter information from the Idaho Secretary of State. You'll also find easy links to verify your registration, locate your polling place, the Idaho Voters' Pamphlet and other information.

Remember to bring photo identification to the polls. You may present an Idaho driver's license or Department of Transportation photo ID, a U.S. passport or federal photo ID, a tribal photo identification card, or a current student photo ID from an Idaho high school or post-secondary educational institution. If you are not able to show an acceptable ID, you may sign an affidavit, under penalty of perjury, swearing to your identity.

I encourage all of you, your family and your friends to vote and help keep our republic strong.

Thank you,

Source