A word of appreciation to all of those who worked so hard behind the scenes for such a successful primary election making Hooksett the standard for election perfection across the state is what you’d expect the day after such an event. And, without a doubt, every person (even those who do not vote) needs to say thank you to those people. Very, very few people in our town, including those in authority, truly have any idea the amount of man hours, hard work, thought and energy that goes into making our elections seamless. Unless you are directly involved, it’s impossible to fathom.
But that is not why I’m writing. I’m writing to ask why every voter in Hooksett isn’t involved in this work. We hear so much on the news, on social media, in general conversation about how bad things are right now – whether it’s COVID, social unrest or simple frustration with politicians. And yet, when there is an opportunity to make a difference, many people stay uninvolved. And I’m not talking about actually voting – that’s a no-brainer. “Vote like your life depends on it – because it does!” isn’t just something Justin Dart, a prominent disability rights activist, said. I’m talking about actually helping out – stepping up when help is so desperately needed. There’s much more to the elections than just voting.
The presidential election in November is literally just around the corner and it’s going to be enormous, not only in how the outcome will affect us all, but in the logistical planning and carrying out of an election the size of which this town has never seen. The few people who have brought you incredible elections thus far cannot do it themselves. It will be virtually impossible. We need everyone that is able to help out. Working the elections before, during and after the actual voting day provides an opportunity to participate in a process upon which this country was founded. It is an opportunity to ensure fairness and accuracy. It is an opportunity to protect a right that keeps us free. But those who have been providing the town with near flawless elections up until this time can no longer do it alone. The town has grown, the process is more complex and the accuracy more essential than ever. We need help and we need it now.
The logistics of the November election have already begun. If you can help out, we ask that you contact the Town Clerk’s office (485-8471) and talk to Todd Rainier or Billie Hebert as soon as possible. There are a myriad of tasks to be done and a myriad of ways to help. Even if you aren’t available during the day, people are needed in the evenings to assist with the counting. Even if you aren’t available on election day, there are other days when help is needed. And no worries if you’ve never done this type of work. We’ll provide training with patience. The point is to offer what you can in a time when any help you can give is greatly appreciated.
Final comment: Don’t be one of those people who just complains or comments on how “things should have been done”. Be one of those people who say “here’s how we can do it” and helps get it done.
Cindy Robertson
Hooksett Town Moderator