By: Secretary of State Beth Chapman
Dear Editor:
I would like to thank the more than three hundred people who attended the Democracy Defense League’s rally against voter fraud at Marion Military Institute last week. It is with great appreciation that I write this letter to commend the DDL for their proactive approach and desire to see fair and honest elections across our state. Colonel James Benson and his staff are to be commended, as well, for sharing their beautiful facilities with us and being such gracious hosts.
I would also take this opportunity to reiterate to you and your readers that voter education is available by calling 1-800-274-VOTE. All anyone has to do is call and my staff and I will be happy to answer any questions they may have. Our goal is to stop voter fraud through education of the laws, the correct voting processes and procedures, and the legal consequences of those who choose not to follow them.
While some break the law unknowingly, other people intentionally break the law by buying and selling votes. My goal as Secretary of State is to educate the first type and help the Attorney General prosecute the other cases to the fullest extent of the law. Either way, we must educate voters and eradicate voter fraud now!
A reporter in Perry County asked me if I believe people there are just accustomed to voter fraud and, if so, asked what we could do to change that. My answer was simple, but direct. They may be accustomed to it happening, but I hope they are not accustomed to elected officials ignoring it, because we will not. Attorney General Troy King, his staff and mine are working to do everything possible to ensure fair and honest elections. General King and his staff are to be commended for their strong stance and hard work to stop voter fraud.
Now that alleged incidents of voter fraud have been reported, members of the DDL and citizens of Perry County must seize the opportunity to help us eradicate voter fraud. It is the cancer of Democracy and if not removed, it will spread. We cannot allow that to happen.
If you or anyone you know has any information that could help us in our effort to stop voter fraud, please visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.stopvoterfraudnow.com or call us toll-free at 1-800-274-VOTE. Your name can and will be kept confidential if you wish.
Again, thank you Perry County for realizing there is a problem with voter fraud and recognizing the important role you can play as concerned citizens to help us stop it.
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