Thomas F. Shields characterized Question 1 as “liberal political harassment” (Oct. 10). In reality, the bill would fix political harassment of voters coming from the conservatives.

Shields knows Maine voters are aware of the witch hunt conducted by Secretary of State Charlie Summers on behalf of Gov. Paul LePage’s administration. Republicans passed the partisan law eliminating same-day registration on a rumor of voter fraud. A subsequent investigation found no fraud.

In typical Republican fashion, the right now tries to convince Mainers their actions were justified. Shields would have Mainers believe voter fraud has run rampant in Maine. Summers’ investigation has proven otherwise.

Question 1 does eliminate disenfranchising voters. If you are a student in one of Maine’s colleges, you have the right to vote where you reside a majority of your time. U.S. citizens who, for whatever reason, choose at the last minute to vote should not be denied their right.

Historically, liberals have a better “get out the vote campaign” than do conservatives. Republicans know this. Eliminating same- day registration benefits them as a party by disenfranchising liberals. It really is that simple.

For 38 years, Mainers have had the right to register and vote on Election Day, a practice that has benefited all Mainers. According to recent reports, several Republicans registered and voted on Election Day in 2008 and 2010. This issue has nothing to do with “honest elections.”

If Shields truly supports “honest elections,” he would join me in supporting Question 1.

David D.T. Marquis, Lewiston