DOVER – In response to the Delaware Superior Court decision regarding early voting and permanent absentee voting, House Speaker Valerie Longhurst, House Majority Leader Melissa Minor Brown, and House Majority Whip Kerri Evelyn Harris issued the following joint statement:
“The decision from the Delaware Superior Court is profoundly disappointing for us and all advocates of voting rights.
“Restricting early and permanent absentee voting will directly impact the ability of parents, low-income workers, shift workers, those with disabilities, and the elderly, to have their voices heard as personal schedules and needs don’t always align with the state’s predetermined voting day. For this reason, these two methods of voting have proved to be incredibly popular and effective, improving access and opportunities for all voters to exercise their constitutionally protected right.
“At a time when voting rights across the nation are under attack, Delaware Democrats have steadfastly supported measures that would ultimately make it easier and more convenient for residents to vote and we will continue to push for these critical changes to our electoral laws. This decision reinforces the urgency of our past efforts to amend Delaware’s Constitution for voting and underscores the importance of continuing to advocate for voter protections at the federal level.”