Just a few weeks ago, citizens across our country and people throughout Missouri celebrated Independence Day. I hope you had the chance to commemorate the holiday with friends and family and enjoy all the American traditions we love. It is easy to get caught up in these traditions and forget that we are celebrating our independence and the formation of the America we know and love today. One of the reasons that colonists risked their lives for their independence was because the 13 colonies had no representation in the British Parliament – they had no vote. One of the best ways to appreciate our independence and pay tribute to our founding fathers and the veterans who have continued to fight for our freedoms is by exercising our right to vote.
As you know, Tuesday, Aug. 5 is the day of Missouri’s primary election. On this day, you will be able to vote for candidates for five of six statewide offices, including the office of the governor and the treasurer. Local offices including state representative will also be on the ballot. I know a lot of people don’t prioritize voting in primaries as much as a general election. But I believe it is important to take the opportunity to make sure the strongest candidates that share values that are the closest to yours have the opportunity to run in November. I also have a strong belief that it is my civic responsibility to vote, and I hope you share this viewpoint.
While I continue to encourage every eligible voter to take advantage of this right, I want you to know I will do everything I can to make sure our election process is fair. I know many of you closely followed the legislation we considered this year that would require Missourians to show a photo ID to vote. When unscrupulous individuals try to manipulate the system, they diminish the importance of your vote. Although we were not able to pass the voter identification legislation during the past session, I am sure the hard work will continue so we can be assured that our election process remains free and fair.
The strong support I received from my constituents in regard for continuing to improve the accountability of our election process is proof that Missourians highly value their right to vote. I hope you will take every opportunity to participate in the democratic process and continue to have your voice heard. You can make a difference in our state through the power of your vote, so don’t forget to cast your ballot on Aug. 5. Please feel free to call my office with questions, and you may want to visit the following websites: http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/s_default.asp?id=voters for specific details about voting issues. You can also find contact information for your local election officials at http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/countyclerks.asp.
As always, I encourage you to contact me with your suggestions or ideas. I can be reached at my Capitol office (573) 751-1484, or by e-mail at shannon.cooper@house.mo.gov. My mailing address is: Room 310, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.