Young Dems of NC and Democratic Party Help Pass Same Day Voter Registration

The YDs, of which I am member, have begun to focus on what needs to be changed and are beginning to change it. The latest victory is good for all Democrats, which is the Same Day Voter Registration bill. Now, all voters will get more opportunities to vote, and as many of us know, most later voters vote for Democrats.

Here's the press release from NCDP noting that this bill has been signed by Gov. Easley:

NCDP Chair and Young Democrats President Celebrate the Passage of Same Day Voter Registration

RALEIGH -- NCDP Chair Jerry Meek and Young Democrats President Zack Hawkins applaud Democratic leaders today on the passage of same day voter registration. Gov. Mike Easley signed the bill into law on Friday.

The new law allows voters to register up to three days before Election Day, down from 25 days under the old law. The measure also provides several safeguards to ensure the integrity of voter registration and toughens criminal penalties for those who commit fraud.

Republican State Auditor Les Merritt attempted to stall passage of the bill by citing a flawed preliminary report that ultimately yielded no evidence of voter fraud.

Thanks to the hard work and energy of the Young Democrats of North Carolina and grassroots activists, the bill prevailed against such attacks.

“We should do everything we can to encourage people to vote, especially when stringent safeguards are in place to prevent voter fraud," said NCDP Chair Jerry Meek. “Despite Mr. Les Merritt's attempt to derail this legislation with misinformation, our legislators wisely concluded that same day registration was the right thing to do.”

Zack Hawkins, president of the Young Democrats of North Carolina, also hailed the bill’s passage.

“This will revolutionize the way young people vote in North Carolina,” Hawkins said. “It will allow us to continue to engage and inspire young voters to participate in the democratic process, especially during the critical, last days leading up to an election.”

It's a good day to be a Democrat, especially a young one.