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Alex Titcomb, campaign manager for Rep. Laurel Libby, and four others recently lost their lawsuit against Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. The court’s decision made one thing clear: the language of the November referendum on Maine’s election laws is not confusing — it’s just unpopular to some.

Here’s what the referendum actually asks: “Do you want to change Maine election laws to eliminate two days of absentee voting, prohibit requests for absentee ballots by phone or by family members, end ongoing absentee voter status for seniors and people with disabilities, ban prepaid postage on absentee ballot return envelopes, limit the number of drop boxes, require voters to show certain photo ID before voting, and make other changes to our elections?”

That’s not election reform — that’s voter suppression. We know absentee voting is vital to many in Maine, especially shift workers, seniors, students, people with disabilities and those without reliable transportation. These are hardworking Mainers whose voices matter. Cutting off access to the ballot box doesn’t make our elections more secure — it just makes it harder for certain people to vote.

Also, let’s be clear: accusations that 51 people voted twice in Maine were investigated and proven false. Our state’s election system is secure and trusted.

If we want to keep it that way, we must vote “No” on this dangerous and unnecessary referendum. Let’s stand up for our neighbors and protect access to the vote.

Joan Wenzel
Auburn

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