Your ballot is in the mail, and that is a good thing

I support Utah's vote by mail system exactly as it stands.

I want to be plain about that, because the system takes criticism regularly and I think the criticism is misplaced. Our vote by mail system is the product of sound planning, real protections, and genuine oversight. It works.

I also think it is the fairest method we have. Nobody has to find a ride, take an afternoon off work, or stand in a line to be heard. You fill out your ballot at your own kitchen table, in private, with as long as you want to think about it.

I also want to say something about the Lieutenant Governor. When the federal government asked for sensitive information about Utah voters, she declined to hand it over. I think she was right, and I am glad to say so about an officeholder who is not from my party. Your voter file is yours.

A practical note, since I am on the subject. Ballots went out on October 13. If you have not seen yours, check your registration at vote.utah.gov. If you have it, fill it out, sign the envelope, and send it back or drop it off at your local ballot drop box. The signature and the four digit code of either your social or license is the part people forget. A ballot without either does not get counted.

And since my name is not printed on yours, you will find a write-in line for Utah House District 57. Fill in the oval and write Nancy Peterson.