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Jill Biden pushes voter registration in Harrisburg
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HARRISBURG -- The wife of Vice President Joe Biden urged campaign volunteers this morning to continue their voter registration efforts as tomorrow's deadline approaches, 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 Tuesday.
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 requirement had been lifted for this election.
"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."
State offices are closed today for the Columbus Day holiday, but those seeking to register to vote in person can do so Tuesday at county election offices, PennDOT locations and state health or welfare offices, among other locations. Applicants must be a citizen of the United States and resident of Pennsylvania, and be at least 18 years old by Nov. 6.
Mrs. Biden also will be appearing in Scranton, Hazleton and Allentown later today, and making stops Tuesday in Reading, Lancaster and Philadelphia.
First Published October 8, 2012 2:21 pm
