Register and vote

I am a voter registrar because I find it an embarrassment that so few Alaskans vote.

As always during an election year, registrars work toward encouraging citizens, especially young people, to become registered voters.

Today I spoke with the owner of a prominent building in downtown Palmer, asking if I could set up a small table out in the hall near the coffee shop. After answering when and why I wanted to do such a thing, the building owner then asked who I was planning on voting for in the upcoming election. I explained that my personal beliefs were irrelevant and registering to vote is a nonpartisan event. She then stated, “It’s usually the Obama people who are trying to get young people to register and since I’m voting for Sarah, I don’t think so.”

I was appalled. The assumption was that I am a Democrat, voting for Obama and therefore posed a threat to her and her party.

Voting is not simply a choice. It’s our responsibility as global citizens to ensure our government’s policies reflect our values and concerns. Obstruction of this process serves no one and is truly un-American.

Get involved, the world is run by those who show up.

Jan Newman

Palmer