When I started this effort I expected to run into racist and classist regulations surrounding voter registration. I was aware of the history of local election laws making it difficult for certain groups to fully participate in this democracy.
As we worked on the first few state packets I was happy to find that, though unorganized and often unhelpful, the local election authorities and regulations weren't blatantly prejudiced against a particular group.
Until today. Today I find out from one of our volunteers that in New Hampshire you must register in person at the local clerks office during normal business hours. The clerk offices aren't open on weekends (except for a single Saturday 10 days before the election). There are a few exceptions ('disability, religious beliefs, military service, or because of temporary absence').
I don't know about you but I usually find it hard to make time to accomplish important errands like picking up a prescription or seeing the doctor. And I have a white-collar, flexible-hours type job. What about the thousands of New Hampshire residents that work 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday? When are they supposed to register?
Given all the attention in 2000 on the election and voter registration process I'm surprised the leaders of New Hampshire haven't corrected this. Do they not think its important or are they worried that if normal working folk can register and vote they may be out of a job?
// posted by ralph at
10:17 AM
