By Congresswoman Gwen Moore
Right now, as we face a pivotal moment in our country – a pandemic, economic recession, and a national reckoning on systemic racism – the most precious instrument of our democracy is being jeopardized: the right to vote. Remember the scheme Republicans pulled during the April primary here in Wisconsin? I know it feels like a lifetime ago, but I know you remember – lines down the street and around buildings, people not getting to cast their ballot – and how scary it was for voters who risked their lives to make their voices heard. Hundreds of you have shared your personal stories with me, and I am proud of you for doing your civic duty, even in the middle of a global pandemic. The best way to make sure your voice is heard is to vote.
As Election Day draws closer, COVID-19 infection rates are even worse than they were this spring, not just in Wisconsin, but across the country. It is clear that Trump and his Administration failed to manage the pandemic; they are just not up to the task.
The most important thing for you and your family to do is to stay safe while exercising your franchise – your vote – the most powerful tool in our democratic society. Make sure your voice is heard and stay safe by taking advantage of early voting – either by absentee ballot or early voting in-person.
You have until October 29th to request your absentee ballot. If you have not requested your absentee ballot, do it immediately by visiting myvote.wi.gov and select “Vote Absentee”, or you can send a request to your municipal clerk. When you receive your ballot, it will come with instructions on how to complete it. Please follow them carefully. Your municipal clerk must receive your completed absentee ballot by 8 P.M. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3rd. You can return your ballot to your municipal clerk in person, by mail, or drop it off at your clerk’s designated box or site by 8 P.M. on Election Day.
Starting two weeks before Election Day, Tuesday, October 20th, you can vote early in-person at your local municipal clerk’s office or other designated sites. In-person early voting hours do vary, so please contact your municipal clerk before going in person.
We’ve never faced a more important election in our lifetimes. I beg you, please make your voice heard. Vote like our democracy and your life depends upon it. Please visit gwenmooreforcongress.com for information, and share your opinions with me on Facebook.com/GwenMooreforCongress/ and @GwenforCongress on Twitter.
