PUBLIC HEALTH AND PRIMARY ELECTIONS
Protecting Access and Trust in Our Democracy
[HAMDEN, CT - April 20, 2020] The League of Women Voters of Connecticut urges Governor Ned Lamont to issue executive orders to maintain the access and trust of citizens in their elections. With the federal and state primary elections taking place on August 11, 2020, the League recommends the following crucial actions:
- Eliminate candidate petition process for the state primary ballot. The petition process for candidates to get on the primary ballot cannot safely proceed, and during this pandemic, it would prevent worthy candidates from getting on the ballot. Our democracy benefits when more people run for office. The governor must eliminate the petition process for this year.
- Increase time and opportunity to request and return absentee ballots. Under the current circumstances, it is critical that all citizens have the ability to vote safely, and appropriate time is allotted to ensure all votes are fully counted.
- Provide protection for poll workers. We call on the Governor to support precautions to protect poll workers who will be present to allow for in-person voting. Our top priority must be the health and safety of all who live in Connecticut while simultaneously upholding the rights of all voters.
In a message to Governor Lamont, League President, Carol Reimers wrote, “All citizens deserve easy and safe access to the elections that will not jeopardize their health. The League of Women Voters of Connecticut recognizes that these are challenging times but our democratic electoral system needs to continue as unhindered as possible. Citizens deserve this.”
The League of Women Voters of Connecticut is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy.
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If you would like more information on this topic, please contact Carol Reimers, President (president [at] lwvct.org) or Judy Lhamon, VP Public Issues (advocacy [at] lwvct.org).
