Over 60% of older Mainers voted absentee in 2024. Mainers vote in large numbers because we have chosen to make it easily accessible. The “voter ID” referendum, Question 1 on the November ballot, threatens our ability to vote.

Many older Mainers have mobility and transportation difficulties, especially in rural areas where town office hours are irregular. These citizens would have difficulty getting an ID and a ballot if Referendum Question 1 passes. They could no longer automatically receive an absentee ballot. But they would not be permitted to request one by phone or have a family member obtain one. One unexpected fall or hospitalization could take away their ability to vote.

This referendum also requires absentee voters to provide a photocopy of their ID and complete new complicated paperwork, difficult for homebound adults. These are calculated hurdles threatening our right to vote.

Preserve absentee voting in Maine by voting “No” on 1.

Christine Szalay
Damariscotta