The Reader: 2012 General Election Voters’ Guide
The Voter’s Guide is a superb primer to the Maryland and Anne Arundel County ballot questions on which we will vote November 6.
The League of Women Voters is a well-known nonpartisan political organization. In its own words, the League “encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidate, and its membership includes both women and men.”
The Voters’ Guide for Anne Arundel County gives detailed information on each of the seven state ballot questions and each of the 15 Anne Arundel County questions. Each includes a complete review of the initiative’s origin, present practice, proposed change, pros and cons, plus an explanation of what it means if you vote yes or no.
Pages 41 and 42 contain a cheat sheet to record your decisions and take to the polls. Print it out if you use the on-line version.
More facts about the Guide:
• Candidates had 400 characters for their answers to each question and stopped at that point without corrections of spelling, grammar or typing.
• Questions for the congressional candidates were devised by the League of Women Voters Maryland.
• Explanations for the state questions were also done by the state League.
• Ballot questions about legislation were explained using the full bill, legislative history and the resources of the Maryland Legislative Services.
• Explanations for the county referendum questions on revising the County Charter were based on the Report of the County Charter Commission, the proceedings of the County Council and explanations from the County Council.
• Local questions were researched and written by a committee of three Anne Arundel County League members. Niecy Chamber is the editor and producer.
Get a paper copy of the Guide in Anne Arundel County libraries. Or download it at www.aa1.lwvmd.org.
Early voting begins October 27. Reduce the time you and others spend in line by making your decisions early and going to the polls between October 27 and November 1.