By MIKE JONES Associate Editor on Apr 9, 2009, at 2:03 PM Updated on 4/09 at 2:03 PM
JONEZIN
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I choose to remain optimistic – or is it naïve - concerning two equally foolish votes that are headed our way, namely Voter ID and English-only.
Gov. Brady Henry wisely vetoed the Voter ID law, which the Legislature then voted to send to a popular vote. The English-only law is also headed for a popular vote.
Both are mean-spirited laws aimed at the minority, despite what the supporters in the Legislature say.
The silliest of all the quotes concerning the Voter ID law was made by House Speaker Chris Benge, R-Tulsa, who said: "We have said since the beginning of session we believe requiring voter identification is critical to maintaining the integrity of our democracy. I am confident the people of Oklahoma will support this common-sense reform and I am glad they will have that opportunity."
He's kidding, right? How can taking voting rights away from a minority of Oklahomans maintain the integrity of democracy?
Now, we have two popular votes headed our way. We're voting because the Legislature knows it can get neither past the governor's veto pen. Instead, we'll spend thousands of taxpayer dollars setting up one or two elections. One or both will face court challenges on constitutional grounds, further costing the taxpayer.
But, back to my optimism. I believe that the good people of Oklahoma will eventually see through both of these ruses and vote them down. At least that is what I choose to believe. The common belief is that both will pass overwhelmingly.
That might be so. But until proven wrong, I will put my faith in the people of Oklahoma. I still think they are good and fair-minded people who understand their rights and roots.
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