Since the dust has settled from our legislative session that ended in July, it’s been good to reflect on all that we were able to accomplish. Though we began in the midst of a raging pandemic last winter, we did what we needed to get our work done and serve our constituents. From supporting small businesses, to protecting our environment, there was a lot of important legislation passed and signed into law. One of these areas I am particularly proud of is our work to strengthen our democracy and protect voting rights.
Firstly, I supported a bill to ban corporate contributions in state elections. In 2020, we were bombarded by nonstop political ads that were fueled by hundreds of millions of dollars in outside spending. Mainers said loud and clear that they don’t want corporations and big money to influence our elections, and that it’s the people who should be deciding elections. We listened, and this new law will help us keep big money and outside influences out of our elections.
We also made permanent many of the changes that were implemented because of the pandemic. This past election, Maine voters benefited from several new innovations and reforms, including an online absentee ballot tracking tool and secure ballot drop boxes. I know many folks who enjoyed being able to track their ballot through the process, from being accepted, to being processed by their local clerk. It also gave folks peace of mind knowing that if there was an issue, they would know about it and get the opportunity to set things right.
The ballot drop boxes also allowed Mainers to securely deliver their ballot right to town hall without needing to rely on the postal service. This too reassured voters who could know their ballot was in the right place by the right time, and allowed more flexibility as to when it could be dropped off. I’m proud to share that a new law we passed will ensure that Maine voters will continue to have access to both of these options, and will also give more guidance to clerks across the state to ensure secure, safe operation. We also passed a new law that will allow Mainers to register to vote online. This is a commonsense change that brings the process up-to-date, and will also free up our clerks and staff for more pressing tasks.
Last but not least, we voted down bills that would have made it harder for Mainers to vote. Just like in other state legislatures across the country, there were a slew of bills here in Maine that would have added burdensome
requirements to the voting process. Maine is at the top of the list when it comes to well-run, secure elections in this country. There is no reason why we should ever make it more difficult for citizens to cast their vote, and I’m glad my colleagues and I came together to oppose these measures.
As Mainers, we take pride in our efficient elections, independent voters and high participation rate. In the Legislature, we’re working to ensure that everyone can vote so we all have a say in our democracy. These changes will help Mainers who may have had trouble balancing work and other commitments make their voices heard, as well as our seniors who want to participate but struggle with mobility. The more people who are able to securely cast their vote, the better off we all are.
As always, you can contact me at Stacy.Brenner@legislature.maine.gov or call my office at 287-1515.
Stacy Brenner is serving her first term in the Maine Senate, representing Senate District 30, which includes Gorham, part of Buxton, and part of Scarborough. She is the co-owner of Broadturn Farm in Scarborough and is also a certified nurse-midwife.