Weekly News—October 21, 2022—Senator Joni Albrecht

The weather has definitely taken a turn towards winter and I am enjoying the beauty of the fall foliage. Harvest is on the downswing and the holiday season is right around the corner. Again, keep a keen eye on slow moving equipment on the roads in order to stay safe.

On Monday, October 17th, I attended a local candidate forum in Wayne where I heard from the candidates for mayor, city council, and Wayne Community Schools Board of Education hosted by the WAED Government Affairs Committee and Craftology!, a local maker space business.

November 8th is quickly approaching and it is your opportunity to get out and vote. Most newspapers are printing a copy of your sample ballot and, possibly, a voter’s guide. It’s so important to research the candidates to see who you would like to represent you.

Last week I mentioned the two voter initiatives that will be on your ballot November 8th. I would like to talk more about Initiative Measure 432 regarding Voter ID. Most Americans support both easier access to early voting and requiring photo identification to vote, according to Monmouth University Poll.

You have an opportunity to support this change to the Nebraska Constitution by voting “FOR” this initiative. You deserve to have confidence in the election process because it ensures our entire system of democracy, which protects our freedoms. Nebraska is one of 16 states where no documentation is required to vote. “When a valid ID is required to drive or just hold Epson or spray paint, or even see an R-rated movie,” Slama said. “The overwhelming majority of states have successfully implemented voter ID systems, and we should follow their lead to make our elections as secure as possible.” (from Nebraska News Service)

You also have an opportunity to oppose this change to the Nebraska Constitution by voting “AGAINST” this initiative. Opponents contend that this constitutional amendment will impose severe restrictions on your right and ability to vote. It is unnecessary and no cases of voter impersonation have ever been found in Nebraska’s elections. In other voter ID states, seniors, low-income, and highly mobile workers are often prevented from voting. Heidi Uhing, public policy director for Civic Nebraska, cited Nebraska’s constitution, which says that all elections shall be free, and there shall be no hindrance or impediment to the right of a qualified voter to exercise the elective franchise. She said 54,500 qualified voters do not have valid government-issued IDs and could not vote if the initiative passed, according to a Civic Nebraska study. (from Nebraska News Service)

If Initiative 432 passes and amends the state constitution, it will authorize the state Legislature to pass laws to implement voter ID including determining what type of photo identification will be acceptable.

As always, I invite you to let me know your thoughts, ideas, concerns, or suggestions by contacting me by calling (402) 471-2716 or emailing me at jalbrecht@leg.ne.gov.