VOTERS: An affidavit is OK

A recent press release from the Kootenai County Elections Department neglected to mention that, if voters come to the polls without an ID card, they can still exercise the right to vote by filling out an affidavit attesting that they are who they say they are. A recent voter guide from the Idaho Secretary of State contains a single sentence on that option, such a brief mention that it may easily be missed. The danger, of course, is that voters will think they cannot vote without an ID. I suspect the lack of an ID may not be a huge issue in our area, but for any single voter to think he/she cannot vote IS a big issue. And in races for public office, as we all well know, one or two votes can make the difference between winning or losing.

Therefore, I am writing this letter to remind all voters that you DO have the right to vote this election. For whatever reason you may be without an ID when you go to the polls this election, you CAN vote: You should be given an affidavit to complete before you get your ballot. If you are not offered this option, ask for it and then contact the elections office to let them know that the poll worker was not forthcoming with this legitimate option.

Also, be reminded that in the general election, one does not declare a party affiliation. Your party preference is private. Please exercise your precious right to vote this election. You have real choices this election, the results of which will profoundly affect the quality of life in Idaho.

PAULA NEILS

Chair, Kootenai Democrats

Hauser