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I hope Nov. 3 will not live in infamy

To the editor:

Will Nov. 3, 2020 be another date witch will live in infamy? Not from a military attack on our nation but on the form and function of the foundation of our democracy, voting?

Our right to vote is the cornerstone of our republic. Will you vote based on a candidate’s personality or their policy? You may think one is smarter or dumber than the other. The choice is yours for what ever reason you feel is right. This is a solemn right to be taken very seriously with your future in mind. This is not the time or place for vendettas.

With the country so divided, this election more than any other in our lifetime will confirm or destroy our election system’s integrity. Calm and resolve should be foremost in our minds.

A presidential election is only good for four years. If your choice does not win, be gracious. Do not undermine the winner. Do not cast falsehoods about them as in the last election. It is my opinion this is ground zero for the current divide in our country. This strategy must stop. You do not have to overtly support the winner but you should respect the election and its rules.

The only change from past elections is the massive divide along party lines and “mass mail in ballots.” It has never been done in large numbers before. It remains to be seen if this can be done fairly without fraud. It was not long ago alcohol could not be sold on Election Day because of the potential to influence voters. Buying them drinks in favor of the right vote. Now the barn door is wide open and anything can influence a great number of voters weeks before the election with much more than alcohol. Think about that!

Lastly some food for thought. I can pray at home or at church. To me the sanctity of church seems to cast a reverent frame on my prayer and coveys a deeper connection to my thoughts and wishes. In turn voting by mail in your living room or wherever may not covey the same serious atmosphere to influence a well thought out choice. Distractions at home are common and can sidetrack your train of thought. Or consider talking to any professional on the street, it is not the same as sitting across a desk in their office asking for a loan or legal advice. Voting should be a solemn procedure, conducted in a serious regulated way. I am not in favor of mass mail in ballots in this contentious election. I sincerely hope our election system survives as is and not remembered in infamy.

Vote Nov. 3.

Michael C. Spahr

Lewistown

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