Secretary of the State Denise Merrill on Wednesday detailed her ideas for election changes that would include greater use of technology and support for a constitutional amendment allowing early voting. Speaking during a Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments meeting in Norwich, Merrill said she wants a more “centralized” system that would cut costs and encourage greater participation by young people.
“I’m worried about where we’re going to get our next generation of voters,” she said. “We need new technology to communicate with people where they are.”
Merrill was careful to say she isn’t supporting the idea of early voting, but a constitutional amendment that would give Connecticut that option. Other states have begun using things like mail-in ballots more, boosting voter participation, she said.
She said she has had discussions with Internet search engine giant Google Inc. about creating an app that would promote voting.
“My primary consideration is costs,” Merrill said. “I’m looking for efficiencies.” Merrill didn’t give exact estimates about how much she’s looking to save. A dialogue with municipal leaders is important, she said.
Full Article: Merrill pitches ideas for election changes – Norwich, CT – The Bulletin.