To the Editor:
Nearly 60% of voters in Connecticut voted to approve no-excuse absentee voting in the November election. While this is a good sign, I have learned that the Connecticut legislature now has to pass a law that allows it. The current status of absentee voting is that you can only vote absentee if you’re out of the state, if you’re sick, military service, for religious observances, or physical disability. I am writing to share my opinion that the legislature must vote to ensure that Connecticut residents have the ability to vote absentee.
Many people living in my area work outside of Fairfield County. There could be times where things come up unexpectedly at work, and they might not be able to make it home in time to vote. Moreover, some people may not have childcare, and it could be hard to bring young children to the polls. Additionally, some people might have a boss who does not provide them with enough time to vote or easily vote. The more people who have the opportunity to vote, the greater number of voices that will be heard by the government.
While some people think that no-excuse absentee voting will increase voter fraud, I think this will make elections more trustworthy. Twenty-seven states in the United States currently allow absentee voting for any reason. I think that legislators should allow absentee voting to occur for any reason because this would increase the number of people voting in the elections and enhance the democratic process.
Thomas Ross
Westport, CT
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Ross is a sixth-grade student at Greens Farms Academy in Westport.