American democracy has worked so well for so long that many of us don’t realize it’s collapsing before our eyes. But HR 22, also known as the SAVE Act, a sinister voter suppression measure passed by the house of Representatives on April 10, could be a wake-up call. Under the pretense of preventing nonexistent voter fraud, HR 22 will require voters to show a valid birth certificate or passport to prove their right to vote.

Who might this keep from the polls? The answer is millions upon millions of American citizens, like all the married women who have taken their husband’s name and anyone else who has changed his name since birth. These folks will need to get a passport. All absentee and mail-in ballots would be dismissed. And, needless to say, the cost in time and money for securing these documents favors the rich.

This sinister measure is now on its way to the Senate for a vote. For all who value democracy it’s urgent to let Sens. Collins and King know we are watching and counting on them to uphold the people’s right to vote. Call or write their offices today to let them know we expect them to reject this shameless ploy. We might also wish to keep in mind that Rep. Golden voted for HR 22 when we vote in 2026.

Maggie Shannon
Hallowell