DOVER – In response to the Delaware Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to overturn a lower court ruling that declared the State’s early voting and permanent absentee statutes unconstitutional, House Speaker Valerie Longhurst, House Majority Leader Melissa Minor-Brown, and House Majority Whip Kerri Evelyn Harris issued the following statement:
“Today’s announcement from the Delaware Supreme Court protects the fundamental rights of our citizens. Accessible voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and thousands of Delawareans depend on early or absentee voting to exercise their constitutional right to participate in our electoral process.
“Both early and permanent absentee voting have proved to be incredibly popular and secure, improving access for our most vulnerable residents, including low-income workers, those with disabilities, the elderly, and working families.
“As the Supreme Court noted in their decision, absentee voters have enjoyed the right to request permanent absentee status for nearly 15 years. Meanwhile, data from the 2022 election shows that more than 55,000 Delawareans took advantage of early voting during the first election cycle it was available.
“We commend Attorney General Jennings for successfully standing up for the voting rights of Delawareans and thank her for her leadership in ensuring that every eligible Delawarean has the opportunity to vote without undue barriers or restrictions.
“While this decision is indeed a victory for Delaware voters, it also underscores the need for continued efforts to enshrine these voting rights in our state constitution, providing residents with the confidence and security they deserve knowing their ability to cast their vote will not be subject to any future uncertainty.
“House Democrats have consistently championed measures to make it easier and more convenient for residents to vote, and we will continue to advocate for these critical changes to our electoral laws.”
###
