photo from LWV.org

The League Empowers Voters to Defend Democracy

For the mid-term election November 8, 2022, LWVUS’s mission is to ensure renewed voting oversight, accountability, equal access, and fair treatment at the ballot box. Since the Supreme Court decision, Shelby County v. Holder, rolled back key provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the voting rights of millions are threatened. At least 18 states have passed 36 restrictive voting laws after the 2020 election (Brennan Center for Justice).

 We are lucky to live in California with laws designed to make it easy for all citizens to vote at 18 years old. To restore justice nationwide, two voting rights billshave not passed in the Senate.

 The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act establishes new criteria for determining which states and political subdivisions must obtain preclearance before changes to voting practices may take effect.

 The Freedom to Vote Act expands voter registration, voting access. and limits removing voters from voter rolls. These are the most important of eight provisions of the legislation that also includes criteria for congressional redistricting.

 Voting Rights should be uniform in America, but they are not. The U.S. Senate filibuster has blocked passage of the two bills until there are 60+ votes in the Senate to bring them to the floor for a vote. Passage can succeed if supporters of voting rights are elected to the U.S. Senate in November.

 Election activities will ramp up in September. Every vote matters. What you can do now:

• Join LWV Los Altos Mountain View’s late August Post Card Campaign through “Reclaim Our Vote”. See “Take Action” below for details.
• Remind friends and family to check with their Secretary of State’s office to register or confirm their active registration.
• Volunteer to staff a League table at local venues to register voters. Contact Pam Baird.
• Become an informed voter. Check Voters Edge in October for the latest information on local candidates and ballot measures.
• Watch our website for dates of candidate forums before the November election. At Congressional candidate forums, ask about their position on the Freedom to Vote Act and John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

Democracy is on the ballot. You can make sure it wins.