Dear Editor:

Secure Maine’s elections with Voter ID.

Last year, 170,000 Mainers signed the petition to require voters to have a photo ID. Our state of Maine is one of only 14 states without ID requirements (driver’s license/military ID/U.S. passport/U.S veteran’s ID/Maine Guard ID).

Over 90% of Americans have a photo ID as per Brennan Center study.

After Question 1 passes, the Maine Secretary of State shall issue any Mainer who requests a non-driver ID card, at no charge to the voter.

Also, any registered voter who chooses to vote by absentee may:

1. Request an absentee ballot online

2. Request an absentee ballot via mail; or,

3. Request an absentee ballot in person

Here are the facts:

Yes on 1 ensures that every voter will be verified with their ID

Yes on 1 will secure and strengthen our elections, enhancing transparency

Yes on 1 maintains the ability for every voter to do so, for any reason

Yes on 1 hinders people who are not eligible to vote from obtaining a ballot

Please vote yes on Question 1 to secure our elections, honor every Maine voter and reclaim trust in our democracy.

Steve Carbone

Boothbay Harbor