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Another American, another voter, another vote

Add to the voting travails of Dorothy Cooper in Tennessee this story about Randy Spencer, a Maine guide who lives way up back and beyond. Mr.
Maine guide Randy Spencer.
Maine guide Randy Spencer.

Add to the voting travails of Dorothy Cooper in Tennessee this story about Randy Spencer, a Maine guide who lives way up back and beyond. Mr. Spencer has twice seen his right to vote preserved by the state's law permitting same-day registration. The Republican legislation got rid of that law this year. From the WaPo:

When he moved his primary residence to Holden in 2006, "I promptly registered to vote," Spencer said. But when Election Day rolled around, his name didn't appear on the registered voters list, so he was allowed to re-register in the town office.In the next November election, the same thing happened."I didn't blame anyone, as mistakes like this can surely happen," Spencer said. "On the other hand, I'd feel very differently if a mere clerical error like this had cost me my right to vote — twice."

In the view of leading Maine Republicans, a guy like Randy Spencer is insufficiently engaged in the process to trust with a ballot. The people of Maine will have their say in November, when supporters of same-day registration have a referendum to restore it on the ballot.

Meanwhile, in Tennessee, where Ms. Cooper, 96, was turned away at the DMV for the ID she now needs to vote, Democrats are raising money on the issue of voting rights. This thing where America encourages Americans to vote may turn out to be popular after all.

(H/T @lobsterstyle)