Demos Statement on Launch of Presidential Election Admin Commission Calls For Bold Action

New York, NY -- In response to today’s White House announcement of intended appointees to the Presidential Commission on Election Administration, Demos President Miles Rapoport released the following statement:

Americans deserve a strong, vibrant democracy and we hope this Commission will embrace the opportunity to truly expand the freedom to vote for all citizens.

“We commend the President’s attention to the pressing need for reform of our election systems and urge the newly-named Commissioners to be bold in their efforts to protect every eligible American’s freedom to vote.  In addressing challenges like long waiting lines and poll worker training, the Presidential Commission on Election Administration can improve our elections but it will only achieve its highest potential if it also takes on the needless red tape that thwarts eligible citizens from registering and voting.

“This week, the 20th Anniversary of the National Voter Registration Act, is a fitting time to remember: Each generation has the responsibility to meet the new challenges hindering our nation’s realization of truly free, fair, and accessible elections.  Common-sense reforms like Same Day Registration, permanent and portable registration, and registration modernization are central to removing barriers to the ballot and ensuring that Americans can speak up, be heard, and exert real influence on the decisions that affect all our lives.

“Americans deserve a strong, vibrant democracy and we hope this Commission will embrace the opportunity to truly expand the freedom to vote for all citizens.”

Demos is a national public policy organization working for an America where we all have an equal say and an equal chance. Published this week, “Registering Millions: The Success and Potential of the National Voter Registration Act at 20” is part of Demos’ ongoing work to expand and protect the freedom to vote for every eligible American.