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Jill Biden emphasizes registration deadline
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HARRISBURG -- The wife of Vice President Joe Biden urged campaign volunteers Monday to continue their efforts as today's voter registration deadline approached, emphasizing that they also need to spread the word about the voter ID decision.
"We've got to get the news out that people do not need a photo ID," Jill Biden told a crowd of about 180 people at the Democratic campaign's Harrisburg office.
She noted that the voter registration deadline is "just hours away," as volunteers among the crowd held clipboards with forms for a final push after her visit. Registration forms for new Pennsylvania voters or those changing their party affiliation or address must be postmarked no later than today.
Mrs. Biden, joined by her daughter Ashley, thanked volunteers for their efforts and outlined what she viewed as several top achievements by her husband and President Barack Obama during the past four years. She highlighted efforts to increase funding for college Pell grants, steps to end the war in Iraq, passage of the federal health care act and Friday's decrease in the national unemployment rate.
"No matter what, we will keep working so that everyone can create a better life for themselves, no matter where you come from, what you look like or who you love," she said, drawing cheers.
One of those preparing to help in a final registration push was Harrisburg resident Rhoda Howard, who said she was happy when she learned that the voter ID mandate had been lifted for this election. Poll workers still will ask for photo ID cards, but the identification will not be required until next year's balloting.
"ID is important, but you have to do it the right way," Ms. Howard said. "It just seemed like it was being pushed through too fast for this election."
Those seeking to register to vote in person can do so today at county election offices, PennDOT locations, state health or welfare offices and on the Web at www.votespa.com. Applicants must be a citizen of the United States, a resident of Pennsylvania for at least a month and at least 18 years old by Nov. 6.
Mrs. Biden also appeared Monday in Scranton, Hazleton and Allentown and will be making stops today in Reading, Lancaster and Philadelphia.
First Published October 9, 2012 12:00 am
