John

Imagine losing power for days, roads blocked by debris, and offices shut down, making it impossible to register to vote. That’s the reality for thousands of people across Georgia, Florida, and other states hit by Hurricane Helene.

Yet, despite these disruptions, state officials are refusing to extend voter registration deadlines, choosing instead to turn their backs on the people who need it most.

When natural disasters strike, courts have historically extended deadlines to ensure that every citizen has a fair chance to register. But this time, the leadership in hurricane-hit states is digging in its heels, risking the disenfranchisement of countless voters.

Power outages, office closures, and disrupted mail services have crippled the ability of many residents to register. These states are forcing people to jump through impossible hoops just to participate in upcoming elections. People’s right to vote should not be wiped out by a storm.

We can’t stand by and allow this to happen. Demand that Georgia, Florida, and other impacted states extend their voter registration deadlines.

If we fail to act, tens of thousands of potential voters could be left out of the democratic process simply because they were in the path of a hurricane. When states refuse to take common-sense steps to ensure that every eligible person can vote, we have to call it what it is: a targeted attack on voting rights.

Courts have previously ruled to extend deadlines in similar circumstances, recognizing that no one should be disenfranchised due to circumstances beyond their control. What’s different now? Why are these states so adamant about blocking fair voter participation? We need public pressure to turn the tide.

These leaders must be held accountable. It’s not just about Georgia and Florida, this is a message to every state natural disasters should not be an excuse to restrict voting rights.

It’s time to step up, make noise, and demand fairness in our elections. Let’s push these state officials to do the right thing and give hurricane victims a fair chance to register.

Together, we can make sure that this shameful attempt to suppress voters in hurricane-ravaged states is stopped.

- Amanda

Amanda Ford, Director
Democracy for America
Advocacy Fund