Ruestman: Preventing Election Fraud

For any republic to function there must be fair and open elections on a regular basis. The one thing that has made the American story so great is the idea that the power belongs to the people. The Founding Fathers knew our elected officials must be held accountable at the ballot box.

Over time we’ve seen multiple attempts to defraud the public with election scams. These efforts undermine the will of the people and tear at the fabric of our state and nation. Last week, the Missouri House of Representatives gave first-round approval to key legislation which insures fair elections.

House Bill 1966 requires voters to present identification at the time of voting. We’re all used to presenting ID to use credit cards, board a plane or drive a car. It only seems logical that you should offer some evidence of who you are when at the polls. Obviously, such an ID check would prevent individuals from going poll to poll claiming to be someone they are not. Many Democrats say this law is unnecessary and that fraud isn’t happening. If that is the case, then why do they fight so hard against voters showing ID? Are they afraid fraud will be exposed?

Other provisions in HB 1966 make voting easier for our men and women fighting overseas. It requires the Secretary of State to establish new, electronic procedures for overseas voters to register to vote and apply for an absentee ballot. It also requires that ballots must be printed and available to these voters within 45 days of the election.

The bill also makes it easier to vote absentee by opening up special voting centers for a brief period prior to the election. One provision also removes the current requirement that you must have an excuse for voting absentee. We understand you are busy with your children, work and travel. Sometimes you just don’t have time on Election Day and it would just be easier to get it over ahead of time.

The final version of the bill would become effective upon voter approval of a constitutional amendment. Once again, we are allowing YOU to decide.

If you have problems, questions or wish to express concern over an issue, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Legislator Assistant, Jonathan, at my Capitol office either by phone 573-751-9801 or by e-mail at Marilyn{dot}Ruestman{at}house{dot}mo{dot}gov.