Why would Alaskans want to put other Alaskans in harm’s way? Evidence shows that when people gather in clusters in indoor areas such as polling stations, the chances of spreading COVID-19 increase. Mail-in voting reduces the risk of contracting the virus, not only for poll workers, but also for the general public. Alaska’s poll workers usually are retirees, one of the groups most likely to suffer serious effects from the virus. It is inexcusable to let these people put their lives in danger when mail-in voting is an option.
I’m glad the lieutenant governor decided to send absentee ballot applications for our August Primary election to all Alaskan voters who are 65 and older. This is a good start. It tells Alaskans that our lieutenant governor is secure with the idea that sending out 98,500 absentee ballot applications for the August Primary, so they can vote by mail, is safe and secure. Why doesn’t he go further and approve sending out absentee-ballot applications to all Alaskans or, better yet, just send out the voting ballots to all registered Alaskan voters? I feel that Trump has encouraged political division on this issue, and as a result, the health of many Alaskans is at stake. I hope that Lt. Gov. Kevin Meyer will make a decision based on what is best for Alaskans and not be influenced by President Donald Trump’s messages against mail-in voting.
Unfortunately, many Alaskans don’t even vote. Some people are disgruntled, or confused and don’t feel that their voice matters. Expressing one’s opinion through the ballot box is one of the most important civic duties an Alaskan can perform. Making it easier and safer to do by mail-in voting makes sense. Please let Lt. Gov. Meyer know your thoughts.
Mail-in voting is not, and should not be, a political battle. We need to look past political rhetoric and consider voter health and safety during this pandemic. It should be a non-partisan issue. Voting by mail is just another option that will allow for a safe and secure voting process. And if we end up not having the option of mail-in voting in November, we need to promote absentee ballots and make them easily available for any voter. It’s up to you to make your voice heard!
Alex L. Koplin
Kenai Peninsula Votes
Homer
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