In addition to the right to life, one of the biggest issues separating our political parties is election policy.
On this point I am proud to stand with my fellow Republicans, who have steadfastly fought for the integrity of our electoral system. We support the right to vote in free, fair and secure elections where every legally cast ballot is counted. This is the most basic civil right, one on which many of the other rights of the American people depend.
As your elected state representative, I will continue to promote legislation that protects the legitimacy of our elections.
Next session I will sponsor bills to require a photo ID to vote and to ban the unsolicited sending of absentee ballot requests. I will champion efforts to ensure elections are secure, with a paper trail, and that no person’s vote counts more than another’s.
In Congress, the GOP has so far managed to stop radical left-wing legislation such as House Resolution 1, the “For the People Act.” This legislation, supported by President Biden and Congressional Democrats, would override hundreds of state laws governing the orderly conduct of elections, federalize control of voting and elections to a degree without precedent in American history, and end two centuries of state power to draw congressional districts.
It also would turn the Federal Elections Commission into a partisan weapon and massively burden political speech against the government while offering government handouts to congressional campaigns and campus activists.
It would mandate automated registration of people who apply for unemployment, Medicaid, Obamacare, and college, or who are coming out of prison. This includes many people currently ineligible to vote under state laws.
As we move into the holiday season, it is common for our schedules to become extremely hectic. Whether it is because of numerous family and community events, shopping for presents, or what is oftentimes a considerable amount of travel, things do speed up during this time of the year and the hours and days seem to disappear too quickly. That is why it is important during the holiday season to do our best to slow down and take a moment to appreciate the here and now. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important that we recognize the many blessings we are fortunate to have as Missourians and Americans.
This is the time of year to remember we are truly blessed to live in the greatest nation in the world. Ours is a land built on the principle of freedom, democracy, opportunity and equality. Here in these United States of America, we can achieve our dreams and raise our families while having peace of mind that we will remain safe and secure. We are also able to enjoy moments with good friends and family, as well as some delicious food and maybe even a little football.
And in doing so, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a nation where we are free to gather and celebrate in the way we see fit. However, we cannot become complacent. We must remain vigilant against forces who seek to destroy our country and its vital traditions.
During this time of thanks, let me also express how deeply appreciative I am to have the privilege of serving as your state representative. It has been an honor and a blessing and an experience that has forever altered my life in a profoundly positive way. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve as your voice in the halls of government.
May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Hardy Billington represents District 152, which includes parts of Butler and Dunklin counties.