Hoyer on Maryland Early Voting Decision

Hoyer On Maryland Early Voting Decision

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) today released the following statement in response to an Anne Arundel County Circuit Court judge's ruling that early voting in Maryland is unconstitutional.

"While I respect Judge Silkworth's ruling regarding Maryland's attempt to facilitate voting for all Marylanders by offering an early voting option, I strongly disagree with it.

"Marylanders should see the lawsuit that resulted in today's ruling for exactly what it is: an effort spearheaded by supporters of Governor Ehrlich and Lieutenant Governor Steele to make it difficult for voters to exercise the franchise in November.

"Nearly half of all states use some form of early voting, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, including the state of Texas, among the most Republican-leaning states in the union. It has proven to be a secure and convenient option for eligible voters who for whatever reason cannot vote on Election Day.

"It is my sincerest hope that today's ruling will be reversed on appeal and that Maryland's carefully crafted early voting law will go into effect this year so that elections in this state are as convenient as possible for voters, not candidates."

http://hoyer.house.gov/Newsroom/index.asp?ID=762&DocumentType=Press+Release