Election Law (Section 5-304)

When I initially registered to vote, in my high school economics class, I registered as an Independent. I did so because I prefer to look at more fields of the spectrum than just red or blue – I like to know what I am getting into before I make a decision.

I did not realize, at that time, that I would hinder myself from having a voice in our government; at least on the grounds of casting a vote. Due to the unreasonably early due date to switch parties beforehand, I am unable to vote in the 2016 Primary Election. Keep in mind – In October of 2015 I did not know all of the candidates very well, nor was I fully aware of state-specific voting restrictions. At that time period I simply did not have a decision, so I could not comfortably make a switch.

Although I can vote in the General Election in November, at that point my vote will not be of importance. New York State always tends to vote Democratic, and my voice will not be heard if I choose differently. The primary election is where every voice counts.

While looking further into this unjust law, research indicated that this law is in place to prevent “party-raiding”. Although I do agree that having large groups of people switching parties can be traumatic towards one side of an election, this law disallows law-abiding citizens to vote at a very crucial time. I understand that it was my fault for not jumping to a decision so far in advance, but this law is unconstitutional. All United States citizens are granted the right to vote, and the Primary Elections are too important to restrict rights of the people.

Additionally, if a US citizen determines that they do (or do not) want a certain political character to be in office, they should have the right to vote for whomever they choose. That is the heart of democracy, and this law takes that away.

Please help bring justice, as no lawful citizen should be denied a right to their future. Help allow Independents and all other legal citizens the right to vote in a fair and equal election for all – just how a true democracy should be!

Respectfully,

Kristin F. Gram.