Friday, August 31, 2012

Senate Democrats Comment on Early Voting Decision


Columbus – Senate Democratic Leader Eric H. Kearney (D-Cincinnati) and other members of the Senate Democratic Caucus issued the following statements after Federal District Court Judge Peter C. Economus ordered that in-person early voting be restored for the three days proceeding the November 6th election:

Sen. Eric H. Kearney
Senate Democratic Leader (D-Cincinnati)

“This is a great day for democracy and a tremendous victory for veterans and all Ohioans. Judge Economus correctly pointed out that the fundamental rights of Ohioans were being restricted and we celebrate his decision to restore voting on the weekend prior to Election Day.  I urge all interested parties to accept the judge’s order and to stop any further efforts to take away voting opportunities for Ohioans.”

Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Assistant Minority Leader (D-Boardman)

“Judge Economus has made a common sense ruling that protects the fundamental right to vote for all Ohioans.  I believe we should ensure that Ohioans have every opportunity to vote before such an important election.”

Sen. Nina Turner
Minority Whip (D-Cleveland)

“I am pleased that Judge Economus saw the disparate treatment of Ohio voters for what it is. This is the second time this week that Republican-led efforts to make it harder to cast a ballot have been blocked by the courts. Voting is our country’s most fundamental right and I am glad to see that it is finally being treated as such. 

Sen. Edna Brown
Assistant Minority Whip (D-Toledo)

Making voting convenient for as many Ohio citizens as possible should be the highest priority for election officials in this state. Today’s ruling by Judge Economus to restore early voting hours on the weekend prior to the election was a step in the direction of easier, more accessible voting for Ohio’s working families and I applaud the decision.”

Sen. Shirley Smith
(D-Cleveland)

“I believe that the federal court’s decision to reopen early voting during the final three days before Election Day was right and just, and that it will provide clarity for Ohio’s voters.  It was shameful of the governing party to try to reduce early voting in the first place, and I trust that the Secretary of State will do whatever is necessary to promptly comply with the court order.  Ohioans are tired of the political games, and I hope that this decision represents an end to election shenanigans and, perhaps, the beginning of an honest debate on what is best for the future of Ohio.”

Sen. Tom Sawyer
(D-Akron)

“I am not surprised by Judge Economus’ ruling given the confusion that GOP legislators created by their convoluted efforts to limit voting opportunities in Ohio.  This decision benefits not only veterans, but all hard working Ohioans.”

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The Caucus


Minority Leader Eric H. Kearney - Cincinnati - 9th District
Assistant Minority Leader Joe Schiavoni - Canfield - 33rd District
Minority Whip Nina Turner - Cleveland - 25th District
Assistant Minority Whip Edna Brown - Toledo - 11th District
Senator Tom Sawyer - Akron - 28th District
Senator Charleta B. Tavares - Columbus - 15th District
Senator Shirley Smith - Cleveland - 21st District
Senator Michael J. Skindell - Cleveland - 23rd District
Senator Lou Gentile - Steubenville - 30th District
Senator Capri S. Cafaro - Hubbard - 32nd District

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