Election Eve Statement: Democracy Integral to Chesapeake Bay

(ANNAPOLIS, MD)—With the integrity of our elections under attack, Choose Clean Water Coalition Director Kristin Reilly issued the following statement in advance of Election Day:

"We hear every four years that this is the most important election of our lifetimes. This time there is little doubt that it's true. Up and down the ballot at the local, state, and federal level, are critical races that will impact the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams. And this election is unlike any other. Due to the pandemic, we are seeing record numbers of people voting by mail. Approximately 85 million absentee ballots have been requested nationwide.

"Given the unprecedented nature of this election, we need to take extra care to ensure the process is fair and free from interference. Essential to this process is that every vote is counted. Whether voting by mail, through a ballot drop box, or in person, election officials need to count every ballot cast. And with the deluge of absentee ballots this year, states and counties might need extra time. This is particularly true in Pennsylvania, where some counties will not begin counting mail-in ballots until the day after the election. While that might cause delays of learning election outcomes, what is most important is to ensure every voice is heard.

"The need for a fully functioning democracy is not expendable in the fight for clean water. Representative government is integral in our work to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams, as our elected officials at every level of government guide the laws, policies, and funding crucial to achieving our clean water goals.

"As we await the election results, we will work with our more than 250 member organizations to ensure all votes are counted throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Once all votes are counted, we look forward to working with all elected officials to leave a legacy of clean water for future generations."

The Choose Clean Water Coalition is an organization that harnesses the collective power of more than 250 local, state, regional, and national groups to advocate for clean rivers and streams in all communities in the Chesapeake region. The Coalition is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt, not-for-profit, charitable organization. As such we may not, and we do not coordinate with, support, or oppose any candidates for public office or political party.

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Media Contact:
Drew Robinson
443-927-8049
RobinsonAQ@nwf.org