Why Republicans Who Care About Voter ID Laws Should Also Support Access to Water and Food
Introduction
During the last election, a health and safety concern arose in Las Vegas among early voters. Demanding two 1 QT water bottles to manage the hot weather was seen as a strategic move to further the conversation around election integrity. This article explores the rational behind water and food access for voters, and questions the legitimacy of some GOP (Republican Party) legislative proposals that deny such necessities.
Context of the Last Election
During the last election, allegations of voter fraud were rampant. Supporters of the Democratic Party published nonsense narratives to cast doubt on the integrity of the elections. However, these claims lacked evidence and ignored serious issues that were documented by Sharyl Attkisson and other journalists. Complaints included ballot management issues, voting machine irregularities, due process violations, and actual instances of fraud.
Legislative Proposals and Voter Rights
GOP legislators proposed laws to minimize these complaints in future elections. One such proposal was to deny food and water to voters who had to wait in long lines. This approach not only disregards the basic needs of citizens but also violates their rights as outlined by the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution. It is frustrating to see legislators propose inexcusable restrictions on voter access during the hottest parts of the day.
Rational Behind Access to Water and Food
Why would Republicans be ashamed of denying access to water and food? The issue is not about the right to provide water; it is about access to basic necessities. Providing water to voters does not equate to political manipulation. There are instances where people passing out water were also spreading political messages, which is indeed prohibited. However, the solution should be to address and punish those who exploit the situation, not to deny water entirely.
Other nations have implemented voter ID laws more effectively. For instance, purple ink finger-swiping systems verify that no one votes twice. However, within the United States, there is a different mindset regarding the responsibility of voters. Republicans believe that adults should be capable of bringing their own food and water, or even ordering it from a delivery app like Papa John’s. Furthermore, they argue that adults who cannot manage these simple tasks are too irresponsible to vote.
Conclusion
The requirement for voters to bring their own food and water is a valid concern. Poll workers should not be responsible for providing cafeteria services. As responsible adults, we expect each other to take care of our basic needs before heading to the polls. It is essential that lawmakers prioritize the safety and well-being of all voters. Denying access to necessary items like water and food during long waiting periods is both unreasonable and disenfranchising. It is time for Republicans to align their support for voter ID laws with a broader understanding of voter rights and responsibilities.
For further reading on the issue, check out Sharyl Attkisson’s documentation of election mismanagement. It is crucial to stay informed and involved in election integrity discussions to ensure fair and accessible voting for all citizens.