I received a notice yesterday from the Office of the Iowa Secretary of State stating how Iowa’s absentee voting period begins today. Iowans can vote in person at their county election office now, and auditors can mail absentee ballots to voters who requested them starting today, too.
According to the notice, more than 144,000 Iowans have requested an absentee ballot so far. The deadline to request one via mail is Oct. 24.
“You can vote through the mail, in-person at the county election office, or at the polls on Election Day,” Secretary Pate said. “I encourage you to figure out which option works best for you and take the necessary steps to ensure your vote is counted.”
I don’t think I have ever voted absentee. I continue to appreciate the process of physically going to the polling site, checking in, having a ballot handed to me, marking my choices, and inserting the ballot in the machine. I even check the counter each time I vote, just to be sure it advances one. Call me paranoid, but I want to be sure my vote is counted.
I appreciate long lines at the polls. It shows passion, participation and progress. I am also not concerned when I am the only person at the poll. Passion, participation and progress are not always there, and that’s OK. Vote if you want. Or don’t. It’s your right.
Last week, the Office of Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate mailed a postcard to approximately 47,000 Iowans who are eligible to vote but are not registered. The postcard included instructions on how to register and a QR code the recipient could use to register online.
“Voting is a civic duty and the best way to make your voice heard,” Secretary Pate said.
Voting is a right, but is it a duty? I choose to vote, but I don't really care if you do or not. In fact, if you are not knowledgeable about the candidates or the issues, it might be best not to vote. Maybe. It’s your choice.
I am uncomfortable having elected officials use tax dollars to encourage — or discourage —voting. Pate says participation in this process helps Iowa election officials improve the accuracy of the voter rolls, register more eligible citizens, and improve efficiencies in the voting process.
That all sounds nice, but one has to wonder what ulterior motives are at play. Once again, you can call me paranoid. Meanwhile, you will find me at the polls on Nov. 8. How about you?
Have a wonderful Wednesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com | 
