Susan Fisher
Susan Fisher
by  Susan Fisher, Buncombe County Representative ~ District 114

After the 4th Circuit federal court overturned the district court ruling, thereby striking down two voting restrictions regarding voter registration and out-of-precinct voting, the United States Supreme Court has now upheld Republican restrictions for the upcoming November election.

The last day for voter registration in North Carolina is Friday, October 10, 2014.  Voters must vote in their assigned voting precincts in order for their votes to be counted. (Voters are not required to show an ID in the November elections since the voter ID law does not go into effect until 2016.)

Our fight to restore our democracy continues, and a trial is scheduled for 2015 in an effort to overturn these restrictions. Until then, North Carolinians must prepare for potential, widespread disenfranchisement this November.

Last election, 27,000 voters cast their ballots and registered on the same day, either during early voting or on election day. It is clear that shortening the early voting period and ending same day registration will have a real and devastating impact on the upcoming 2014 midterm election.

Voting is “the great equalizer” and the strongest tool we have to ensure democracy. GOP policies have turned North Carolina in the wrong direction and devastated our economy, healthcare systems, and quality of education. The Republican-led state government continues attempts to drown out voices of opposition and moderation that would put our state back on the right course.

It is imperative that those not registered to vote register, that all North Carolinians cast their ballot on November 4th in their assigned precinct, and that we send the message to Raleigh that democracy invests prevailing power in the people.