possible discount of an absentee ballot due to poor signature
The recent article in the Virginian-Pilot (Oct.5,2011) concerns me because my Dad who is almost 81 years old could be effected. He was in public education for 32 years before retiring as a principal and has always prided himself on being able to take part in his government as a voter.Unfortunately, for the last ten years he has been a paraplegic and has severe arthritis in both hands which prevent him from doing any handwriting. He has done his voting using an absentee ballot (with proper witnesses). However, his mind is still pretty sharp and he keeps up with current events and can discuss important issues that involve his city,state and federal government.Being able to take part in activities like voting, give him something to live for and help him to feel like he is still an important American citizen. He is also a veteran of the Korean War and was proud to serve his country. At the very least, he deserves to retain his voting right as declared by Federal Law.Please don't make such a drastic change to voting rights of such persons as my Dad. I think that he would become very depressed if he could not vote. Thank you for your attention and consideration of me request.
