LETTER: Democracy is on the ballot
Published 4:30 pm Saturday, August 8, 2026
Late last year when the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice requested Alaska’s voter rolls, our Alaska lieutenant governor promptly complied by handing over the Alaska Voter Registration List. Eleven other states also complied, while 30 states filed lawsuits citing violations of both federal and state laws.
Our congressman has demonstrated his loyalty to his party leader by cosponsoring the House version of the SAVE Act, which undermines the integrity, honesty and competence of election officials, volunteers, and voters to conduct and participate in elections. The SAVE Act includes updated registration rules that many Alaskans will not be able to achieve.
The president’s contradictory narrative and the SAVE Act can confuse anyone. The Trump administration is desperately trying to make us doubt the process and walk away — right past the voting booth. The future of our democracy depends on each of us showing up and making our voices heard through voting. These days, it appears that the most reliable way to vote is in person.
As of now, getting in or out to vote is still easy here in Alaska. Go to AKVOTES to 22777 for the Alaska voter guide. The primary is Aug. 18. Our democracy depends on all of us.
Betsey Burdett
