Originally posted by Sam
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I can honestly claim that I have, more than anyone on this forum, introduced the facts, figures, and data regarding the problem of voter suppression. I've brought in the studies, explained 'em (often numerous times) and debunked the myths and conspiracies that always crop up about the voter fraud that purportedly necessitates the suppression. You, me, MM, and several others have gone around on this many times over. I'm speaking from personal experience: I have never once known you to affirmatively advance non-partisan voting reforms to combat voter suppression.
One memory that left its mark: a number of us were discussing Strict Voter ID and you and others were advancing the false claim that anyone who wanted to vote could get the ID for free with little hassle. I and others disputed this, bringing in studies and news reports about people who could not do so, often because they lacked the necessary ID and the documents needed to get one. One user here -- unfortunately, I cannot remember his screen name (tabito, maybe?) -- gave his personal account of just such a problem: that he lacked the necessary documents, lacked the money and the time to obtain those documents, and would therefore be unable to vote because of Strict Voter ID. His account was disregarded and the talking point never changed.
I would like it very much if people on this forum all agreed that voter suppression from any party is wrong and intrinsically anti-democratic and all sincerely agreed to support non-partisan reforms like automatic registration and independent redistricting commissions.
I'm a less idealistic person than in my youth, admittedly, but I'm always willing to give hope a chance.
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