- United States
- Ala.
- Letter
Opposition to Special Session and Primary Changes
To: Gov. Ivey
From: A constituent in Montgomery, AL
May 1
As an Alabama voter, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the decision to call a special session aimed at altering primary election timing in response to redistricting changes.
Alabama is currently operating under court-appointed congressional maps that were established specifically to ensure fair representation for all citizens, including historically underrepresented communities. These maps were the result of extensive legal review and were designed to provide equitable electoral opportunities, particularly for minority voters whose voices have too often been diminished. Moving away from these maps—or altering election timelines mid-cycle—risks undermining that progress.
Changing primaries at this stage also introduces unnecessary disruption and confusion for voters. Elections should be stable, predictable, and accessible. Adjusting timelines in response to shifting political or legal strategies creates uncertainty that can discourage participation and erode public trust in the electoral process.
Furthermore, while I strongly support states’ rights and believe that Alabama should maintain control over its own elections, that authority must be exercised responsibly. State power should not be used in a way that appears to sidestep fair representation or give the impression of partisan advantage through redistricting changes. True respect for states’ rights includes a commitment to fair and transparent governance that reflects the will of all the people of Alabama.
I respectfully urge you to reconsider this course of action and to prioritize maintaining fair, consistent, and court-validated electoral maps without unnecessary disruption to the voting process.