Election Suggestions

Sometimes individual freedoms have to be sacrificed for the good of society and country. Often this position is untenable, but there are times when it becomes obvious that we have no choice. Some might argue this is the case with gun control and drunk driving, for example. However, after the sad turnout June 2, a more immediate and growing problem at the heart of democracy was exposed. It is possible to retain a democracy when nobody votes?

I propose a new amendment to the Constitution. A minimum fine of $500 will be imposed on all eligible voters who do not register to vote. Failing to vote will incur a fine of $1,000, minimum. The ballot will contain appropriate boxes for voters wishing to abstain, but they must actively abstain. They cannot stay home or fail to return a ballot simply out of disinterest or laziness. Since we insist on draft registration, gun registration, pet registration and others, why not voter registration?

A rough calculation indicates that approximately 25% of eligible voters cast a ballot. Note the statistic is for eligible voters, not registered voters. Is it time that we insist that a right that is apparently no longer cherished become a duty?

LARRY HILL

Arcadia