Strengthening our democracy

Our democracy is strongest with full and equal participation in free, fair and secure elections. This means protecting your right to vote and having your vote counted.

That’s why I introduced House Bill 2023, which increases language assistance in our elections.

Put simply, if an individual cannot understand the ballot, they’re less likely to vote. Even for proficient English speakers, the voting process is challenging to navigate.

By expanding the language requirements in the Voting Rights Act, this bill will provide voting translation resources to Chelan, Douglas and Grant counties. This bill will also require the Secretary of State’s office to establish a grant program for other counties who want to be part of this program.

This bill passed out of the House State Government & Tribal Relations committee with bipartisan, unanimous support – and it’s off to the House floor.

Democrats, Republicans and Independents – we all know that language assistance has a tangible, positive impact in the rates of participation in our elections and governance.

Every bill that we introduce comes from individuals within our community, just like you. In this instance, I spoke with community members in Skagit County who want to be part of our shared democracy.

Our democracy benefits when we commit to and invest in holding elections in which all citizens can participate to vote comfortably and knowledgeably.

And democracy is hard work. That’s why I’ll always be committed to tirelessly working day in, day out to protect the rights of all people – including the right to vote.

I believe that further strengthening our democracy is a defining challenge. As long as all of us come together and meaningfully participate through collaboration and common purpose, I’m hopeful for a better future.

This bill only provides the tools and resources for more citizens to be part of our shared democracy – it is up to you to vote, to make your voice heard and carry this hard work of democracy forward.

As always, thank you for giving me the opportunity to continue my life-long dedication to public service.

As a veteran having attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduated from Naval Nuclear Power School, trained at a naval nuclear reactor plant and served in the Middle East and Southeast Asia as a public affairs officer, I am honored to serve you here in the Washington State Legislature.