LETTER: Constitution photo ID rule is good issue for voters to decide

To Ozaukee Press:

Our republican system vests democratic power with the people both indirectly through their elected representative and directly through voting and the Constitution. The state and U.S. Constitutions embody the voice and will of the people, guiding and limiting governmental power.

On Jan. 8, newly elected Jodi Habush-Sinykin began her state Senate term by attempting to deny the citizens of Wisconsin a democratic vote on a proposed amendment to the Wisconsin Constitution. Fortunately, her attempt was unsuccessful, and the people of Wisconsin will have a say in this matter.

Despite opposition from Ms. Habush-Sinykin and Wisconsin Democratic legislators, the citizens of Wisconsin will determine whether the Constitution will be amended to require “valid photographic identification verifying their identity in order to vote in any election, subject to exceptions which may be established by law.”

This common-sense measure would help protect the integrity of our elections from potential abuse, both domestically and internationally. Straightforward proposals such as this are appropriate for a popular vote, enabling the people to exercise their common sense and defend democracy, in this case, the legitimacy of our voting system.

This amendment will be on the ballot this spring, and rightfully so. We can vote to approve or reject the proposed language, but it is crucial that our voice directs the government through our Constitution, which we collectively own. This is a vital democratic act that would have been respected by Duey Stroebel, had it not been for political subterfuge and significant financial influence. Ms. Habush-Sinykin should more carefully consider and protect the people’s democratic power when casting her votes in the future. However, doing so would effectively align her with the Republican ideals she currently opposes.

Cassandra Mammen

Grafton