Let me explain

As a former and now retired poll worker/election officer, I totally resent and am personally offended by the current climate of election suspicion and accusations of fraud and theft perpetuated by President Donald Trump. Even before the first votes were cast, his suggestions that this election would have “massive electoral fraud” is a testament to his (and his “followers”) total ignorance of the election process.

When citizens of this country present themselves for service as poll workers, we not only receive training from hard working and committed general/voter registrars, but on Election Day, we take an oath to uphold all election laws. We take this oath seriously.

In fact, Election Day is the day when one feels the weight of the oath the most, and we all strive to do our absolute best. It is for and about our country, and considered sacred.

As an alternative for those who see themselves as opposing a “stolen” election, may I suggest that you could use your time better and more wisely by volunteering in your city’s/county’s next election to get a real understanding of how that can’t happen.

You’ll have a much better understanding of how easy it is to be used and swayed by slogans and clichés, but how difficult and time-consuming it is to make sure every citizen’s vote counts!

And thank a poll worker/election officer for their service during this past election. They’ll appreciate it.

Billie Montgomery Cook, Portsmouth