Local Officials Push for Trust in New Hampshire Elections
In a recent forum in Concord, local election officials called for greater voter trust in New Hampshire’s electoral process, specifically advocating for the end of the mandatory citizenship proof requirement for voters. Linda Callaway, town moderator of New Durham, highlighted the disconnect between promoting voter confidence and the government’s increasing skepticism toward voters.
Callaway criticized a new law requiring registered voters to provide proof of U.S. citizenship, which she believes undermines trust. She regarded the provision mandating married women to present a marriage certificate as an infringement on personal autonomy. This discussion involved local moderators and the New Hampshire Democracy Defense Project, co-chaired by former U.S. Senator John E. Sununu and former Ambassador Dick Swett.
Sununu pointed out that New Hampshire’s adherence to paper ballots has preserved voter confidence amid widespread skepticism in other states. “There’s no reason to move away from paper,” he stated, emphasizing its role in fostering trust. Meanwhile, Swett acknowledged the real crisis regarding public confidence in government, including the electoral system, and stressed that political parties should work diligently to restore public faith in democracy.
While Republicans argue that requiring proof of citizenship enhances election integrity, Democrats oppose such measures, favoring the previous system allowing voters to submit affidavit ballots without immediate proof of identity. Callaway questioned the efficacy of requiring documentation when voters could still face perjury charges for false attestations.
As New Hampshire navigates these contentious issues, officials aim to balance election security with nurturing public trust, underscoring that a transparent electoral process is vital for maintaining the democratic system.
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