John Shelley: Simple logic can easily explain election results

To The Daily Sun,

For anyone who is still questioning the results of the presidential election, let me offer this. It is some very simple logic that can help you feel certain that the election was not stolen by the Democrats via fraudulent votes.

First of all, everyone knew going into this election that it was super important that integrity was held to the highest standards possible. Here in America, we already have the most secure and reliable voting system in the world but given the stakes this one was going to be even more closely watched.

It is regular citizens, both Republican and Democrats, that monitor and watch the polls. It is one time that both sides works very well together in this country. All the Republicans were suspicious of the Democrats going into this election. They were going to keep a sharp eye out for any funny business. All the Democrats were well aware that the results were going to be questioned and legally challenged if Trump did not win. They were going to be extra careful as well.

That alone should be enough. Citizens who love our country and believe strongly in the strength and importance of our democracy are in charge of the vote count. It is these citizens who worked tirelessly to assure the integrity and accuracy of the vote count. It is them that you are spitting on when you question the vote count. These are patriotic Republicans and Democrats who made sure our voting system worked and worked fairly. Respect them. They are our neighbors and friends.

But if that is not enough, then remember that voter fraud has been investigated after every election and it has never been found to be significant enough to alter the results in this country. Ever. Because— think about it— if it was possible, neither party would have a monopoly on cheating. They would both do it. Lucky for us they don't. (Gerrymandering is a different type of cheating that we can talk about on another day, but that is not voter fraud.)

Good, trustworthy American citizens count the votes. They did an excellent job especially under the circumstances and I thank them. We all should.

PS: If you are worried about it next election cycle, go volunteer to be a poll watcher. See how well it is actually done and be part of the democratic system to ensure it is fair for everyone. It's a good system in this country. The best in the world.

John Shelley

Laconia