Dear Editor:

LD 38, An Act Requiring Photographic Identification for Voting, was referred to the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee. This bill requires the presentation of proof of identity in the form of a photograph identification document when voting in person.

On 5/2/25, Harris Van Pate, Policy Analyst for Maine Policy Institute, testified “By requiring photographic identification to vote, these bills ensure that every ballot cast is tied to a verified, eligible voter while preserving voting accessibility for all Maine citizens … Establishing a uniform photographic ID requirement is a simple and effective way to rebuild public confidence and enhance transparency in the electoral process.”

On 5/2/25, Richard Coshow, Bridgton, testified “… Election/voter integrity has been suspect in past elections. Why would any government/municipality be afraid of transparency by requiring a photo ID to verify voter eligibility?”

On 5/2/25, Robert Giles, Kennebunk, testified photo ID “ … is required for many day-to-day transactions which are far less important than selecting our future leaders. It will help restore confidence in the integrity of our voting system.”

On the House floor, the Majority Motion made, that this bill OUGHT NOT TO PASS, prevailed with House Roll Call 337 on 6/25/25, with Yea: 72, Nay: 69, Absent: 8, Excused: 2 The Democrat majority voted against voter ID.

Among them was Wayne Farrin, District 47 Representative, who voted YEA, a vote against Voter ID.

As more voter fraud continues to be identified throughout the country, the prudent action for Maine is to establish Voter ID.

Kathy Robitaille

Alna