Longer voting process will reduce participation

So, I voted in the recent Johnson County Supervisor election under the mandated protocols, which have virtually nothing to do with voter integrity. I was asked to produce an official photo ID, then to verbally confirm that it was me and that the address was correct. I then had to read and sign a card formally pledging that what I just said was true. Only then could I go to another station, turn in the card and receive a ballot. The thought that this provides any meaningful assurance is, frankly, absurd.

The one thing it does do is make the entire process take two to three times longer. In the case of normal voter turnout, while the steps are not huge obstacles, the will combine with reduced hours, reduced access to early voting and restrictions on voting by mail to guarantee reduced participation.

Tim Crosby

Iowa City