Voting is the Core of Democracy

There have been rumors and misunderstanding about the new voter ID law. Despite the virtual absence of voter impersonation at the polls over the past ten years the voters of NH have a voter ID law designed to reduce voter impersonation. So be it. We should obey the law.

At the General Election on November 6 any voter already listed as a registered voter will not need to obtain a voter ID. If the voter does not possess a picture ID the voter is still allowed to vote. The ballot clerk will ask for a picture ID; however, every registered voter will be allowed to vote. If the voter does not have a voter/photo ID a challenged voter form must be signed. It is a quick simple form. Once the form is signed the voter will be handed a ballot immediately and may vote immediately.

Do not be intimidated by the new law. And please do not refuse to sign the form or do anything to slow the process. Indeed do your best to present an ID. The point of a democracy is to have representation of all NH voters at this critical time. Remember if you do not vote it gives more weight to others who are voting.

Take the time to vote. If you cannot vote in person, vote absentee. That procedure has not been altered in any way.

For Portsmouth Voters remember that more than 1,200 voters have been redistricted in the City of Portsmouth and must vote at a different polling place than previously. Also Ward 4 residents now vote at the High School.  Check the City of Portsmouth website www.cityofportsmouth.com, click on Voting information for the street list which shows the ward for every address and Voting Location shows exactly where each Ward votes. You may call the City Clerk’s office 603-610-7245 for information on where you vote or in what Ward you live.

Eva Powers serves as the Registrar at Large for the City of Portsmouth