More choices needed
Voter registration laws are in the news almost every day, but you rarely hear about the hoops third parties and their candidates have to jump through in some states to get on the ballot.
The reason is pretty obvious — at least to me. The Republicans and the Democrats want to hold power.
Third parties challenge that power. That sure doesn’t sound like the basic notion of a free people in a free republic making free choices, as expressed in the Constitution by our founding fathers.
I’m all for improving election laws to ensure only qualified voters vote once, and to make it easier to vote. But if you are really trying to improve election laws, it sure would be nice to also make it easier for third-party candidates to run and compete.
Voter turnout is abysmal. Perhaps if there was more choice and less suppression, more people would choose to vote in both the primary and general elections.
Fred Fogel
Volcano
Puna Earth Day
I’m following up on my letter to the editor published on March 16.
The community graciously responded to my cry for help to clean up the trash along Highway 130.
With the help of some kind and driven members of our community, we are organizing a Highway 130 cleanup event for Puna Earth Day from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 24.
Thanks to all who responded!
Unfortunately, litter on roads is not unique to Highway 130. A lot of highway cleanup programs were shut down last year because of the pandemic, and we can see the results along our roads.
How great would it be if neighbors from different areas of the island get together for Earth Day to clean their neighborhood roads!
Now that we have a set date and event planned, we are looking for more generous volunteers to join us in our mission to bring the island to its original and naturally perfect condition.
Together, we can help remedy the problem and keep our beautiful ocean and landscape clean.
For more information, please join our Facebook group, Puna Earth Day
We look forward to celebrating Puna Earth Day with you!
Elena Pomelov
Keaau