Retaining representative democracy requires due diligence and informed votes from all citizens possible, reasons the League of Women Voters dedicates itself to nonpartisan information on issues while encouraging citizens to vote — whoever and wherever they are.
If passed by the U.S. Senate, the SAVE Act, an acronym for “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility,” would require voters to verify citizenship before registering, voting, and/or re-registering to vote. “Verification” mandates proof of U.S. citizenship by passport, certified birth certificate or official ID which displays a U.S. birthplace. And, you must have papers if your name has changed through marriage or adoption. All credentials must be presented in person to an official state registrar.
For Southeast Alaskans, this means appearing at the only official office in Southeast — Juneau. Outlying citizens would have to ferry or fly. Costs would equate to a poll tax, unfairly affecting the number of eligible voters from specific demographic profiles.
Currently, registering requires an oath of citizenship much like the oath taken to serve as a witness or in public office. To date, instances of Alaskan voter fraud have been rare and never to a degree which flipped an election.
In four relocations I’ve re-registered smoothly, but if this bill passes and documents are lost in another move or a disaster, or I marry and change my last name, re-registration will be required under these new rules. What about you?
Preserve your voting rights with a no on SAVE; contact our senators.
Sally Saddler
President, Juneau League of Women Voters
Sally Smith
VP, Juneau League of Women Voters