Letter to the editor: Vote Utah
As a frequent critic and general nagger of all branches of Utah government, Washington County government and St. George City government, I now come forward, hat in hand, to pay tribute where tribute is due.
Now that voting time is here and especially listing to what is going on with voting in other areas of the country, I want to give a big pat on the back to the Washington County voting administrators. The ballots to all registered voters were mailed promptly on time almost three weeks before the election, giving everyone ample time to research the candidates and issues. Cards were sent to those voters whose addresses appeared missing or incorrect, allowing for them to correct their addresses and get their ballots. Ballot dropboxes were conveniently located throughout the county. Those who prefer to vote in a booth can still do so. Registration is allowed up to the day of the election. There are no electronic machines to hack. The county didn’t have to buy expensive voting machines that require updating all of the time. And lastly, the counting of votes should be smooth as glass since most of the ballots will be in and counted before the Election Day deadline.
In the apparent chaos of what is going on in other states, where it seems that people are purposely being hampered in their efforts to vote, Utah — and especially Washington County — stands out as an example of how to do it. Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, or Independent, you should feel pretty good about the process and fairness of our election. This is what democracy looks like.
Perhaps from this unbiased, efficient voting process will come a more cooperative, fair, and respectful overall process in our political discourse. I hope so. I may still criticize when I think things need changed, but I will at least attempt to do it with an understanding of the other perspectives.
Thanks, Washington County, for an election well orchestrated!
—Ed Stewart
The viewpoints expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Independent.
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