…but PLP insider says deferring to the law on absentee voting is ridiculous
Senator Arianna Hodgson
A PLP senator says her party is dedicated to empowering young voices, but repeated that our current laws do not support absentee ballots for students overseas.
Another voice in the PLP, however, says deferring to voting laws is ridiculous – because they could have been changed.
Today, Thursday January 18, is the last day to register as a voter at elections.gov.bm. Registration closes at 5pm.
Senator Arianna Hodgson this morning shared a letter to young people, saying “It’s the last day to register to vote!… As one of our island’s youngest members of the Legislature, I understand that connecting with you in meaningful ways is essential… As a party, we must engage with you directly, listen closely, and ensure your voices shape every conversation about Bermuda’s future.”
Senator Hodgson said her party recognises the importance of ensuring all voices are heard, including those studying abroad. She doubled down on a previous PLP statement citing election laws.
“Although Bermuda’s current laws do not provide for absentee voting… we are dedicated to exploring changes that would allow students abroad to participate.”
“…my door remains open to every young person in Bermuda. Whether you want to share your ideas, raise concerns, or simply be heard…”
However, a PLP insider who asked to remain anonymous told Bermuda Broadcasting that it’s ridiculous for the party to assert that “Bermuda’s electoral laws currently do not allow for absentee voting.”
Our source said that this Government has had a massive and growing parliamentary majority since 2017, and has been able to push through unpopular pieces of legislation with ease.
They could have easily changed the law to allow for absentee voting, giving our young people and others who are studying and working overseas the opportunity to participate in our democracy. This would have received bipartisan support, said the party insider.
Our source, who is high up and respected within the PLP, said it would have been better for the party to admit that they made a mistake and promise to introduce legislation to address this issue when they return to office, if that’s the election outcome.
