Automatic registration assures access to polls

I have lived in Buffalo Grove for 19 years and, like many voters, I was shocked when President Trump claimed without evidence that millions of voters illegally cast their ballots in the 2016 election. Thankfully, in Illinois there is bipartisan consensus that widespread voter fraud is a myth, and that we should instead devote energy to modernizing our voting system with tools like Automatic Voter Registration.

As crafted by both Democrats and Republicans, AVR would allow eligible voters to register to vote while renewing their driver's license or when interacting with other state agencies. Only citizens would be registered, and everyone would have a clear opportunity to opt out of voter registration if they chose. By passing Senate Bill 1933, the Illinois General Assembly could streamline the registration process while making our voter lists more accurate and secure.

One reason that AVR has strong bipartisan support is because it has already been tried and tested. In fact, 29 states have passed or are considering AVR bills. These measures have improved civic engagement by shortening lines on Election Day while at the same time boosting voter turnout. According to a new report from the nonpartisan group Nonprofit VOTE, the highest turnout increase between the 2012 and 2016 elections occurred in Oregon, the first state to implement AVR.

In Illinois, AVR will ensure that every eligible voter - Democrat, Republican or Independent - has an opportunity to have their voice heard on Election Day. As a mother, an educator and as Jewish clergy working in the Northwest suburbs, I want to see this commonsense legislation passed. Republicans and Democrats alike should be able to unite around AVR.

Ilana Axel

Buffalo Grove