Freedom and opportunity have been the anchor for our American democratic system.  It was built on the belief that all of our citizens are worthy.

 The proposed constitutional amendment for photo ID on our Nov. 6 ballot strikes at the heart of our democracy to encourage voting.

 I will be voting NO on Nov. 6 against the photo ID amendment.

 These are my reasons:

1)  There is no evidence that there is significant fraud in Minnesota’s election system.  It is currently a felony to vote if you are ineligible.

2)  The cost to local governments will be significant and result in higher property taxes.

3)  The downside to photo ID is the fact that it will place barriers in the way for the elderly, disabled, students, veterans stationed overseas, absentee voters, and also those who cast their ballots by mail in unorganized townships in St. Louis and other rural counties.

4)  Do you want to place barriers in the way of our elderly in our nursing homes?  In checking with the Cook Nursing Home, only ONE of the 28 residents has a photo ID.

5)  Many Republicans and Democrats agree that we should not be using the Constitution for this purpose.  If there are problems, they should be corrected by law and not by abusing the purpose of our Constitution.

6)  Over 65 non-partisan Minnesota organizations join me in opposing photo ID.  They include Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, AARP of Minnesota, League of Women Voters, and disability  groups.

 The barriers to voting by the photo ID Amendment aren’t in place for the coming election on Nov. 6, 2012.  Please join me in voting NO on Nov. 6, 2012, to make certain that no one will be restricted from voting in future elections.

Former Sen. Doug Johnson

Lake Vermilion, Minn.