Mailers Have Some Voters Upset

Several citizens have raised concerns in the past week about receiving mailers and emails from an entity called the “Maine State Voter Program,” which lists the person’s voting history and even some of their neighbors. 

Secretary of State Matt Dunlap wants voters to know that this is not a state program and is not affiliated with state government.

In a press release Dunlap says, “This is an entirely private organization apparently working on campaigns in Maine. We have had no communication with them and do not know who or what they are advocating for or against.”

The mailings, which share citizens’ voting history and encourage them to vote, appear to be part of a “get out the vote” effort.

According to Maine state law, an organization involved in such an effort can purchase a report from the central voter registration system that includes:

• the voter's name
• residence address & mailing address
• birth year
• enrollment status
• electoral districts
• voter status
• date of registration
• date of change of the voter record if applicable
• voter participation history
• voter record number
• any special designations indicating uniformed service voters, overseas voters or township voters (Title 21-A: Elections)

Dunlap advises any individuals who are upset can mail a complaint letter directly to the “Maine State Voter Program” at P.O. Box 633, Augusta, ME 04332.