Some of those who oppose a federal statute to standardize how federal elections are

[Atticus]

conducted might insist that "states should be free to run their own elections!" I would agree.

If a state chooses to impose it's own unique practices and requirements to conduct elections for governor and secretary of state and other state and local officials, that should be their right be cause those are "their own elections".

But, the elections to choose a president and vice-president, a senator or a congressman? Those are not just their elections; these are OUR elections and the rules as to when how we vote should be the same in every state.

I think election days should be holidays; early voting should be permitted for at least a month; mail ballots should be counted so long as they are postmarked no later than election day and received within seven days after; and, envelopes for mailed ballots should be visibly distinctive and run ahead of any other mail. Finally, mailed or other ballots cast early should be counted promptly after receipt.

I'm sure there are other provisions that would improve my effort, but let's add this to our list of "to do"s.

[relayerbob]

1. There needs to be some mix

If Trump had total control over the federal election process, we wouldn't be having these discussions now. I used to think Feds ought to run Federal elections, but now, not so much. I do think that there should be Federal minimum standards that all states must adhere to, including many of those you have suggested.

[genxlib]

4. Not federally run

But play by standardized and fair rules set nationwide.

[Salviati]

6. Agreed, there need to be minimum standards

Designed to promote access to the polls and the conduction of well functioning, efficient elections. If states want to go beyond those minimum requirements, that's fine, but there should be standards of how many elections sites you need per capita, how close to an election can you make changes to laws that restrict voter access, requirements that if you're contesting a mail in ballot due to a signature not matching that the voter has an opportunity to cure the ballot, etc...

[genxlib]

2. I'll add to your list

1. Universal citizen voting. No voter rolls to bastardize

2. End gerrymandering in lieu of bipartisan commission run boards

2. Make any effort at voter disenfranchising illegal with substantial punishment

[SomedayKindaLove]

3. And how about renaming it Election Week

Instead of Election Day.

You know, just in case we ever have another batshit crazy Reality TV star in office.

[GoneOffShore]

5. Sorry, I don't agree. There should be a nationwide standard for all elections.

No local 'quirks'.

Just like there should be a nationwide standard for driving licenses. And before you object, do consider that pilots have to conform to FAA standards. Why should the same not apply to driving any sort of vehicle?

Otherwise I agree with what you've written.

[Atticus]

7. I may be experiencing intercranial flatulence but, as I understand your post, you agree with me.

What did I miss?

[GoneOffShore]

8. It's late here- 23:30 CET - There's been some wine.

Yes, I agree.

It's been a long day. Plus I'm going back and forth between here, FB, Twitter, Quora, NYTimes, New Yorker, Guardian and iMessages.

Have a good night.

[Atticus]

9. Thanks for the response. Take care of yourself, as in "sleep!"

[GoneOffShore]

10. Soon. And tomorrow will be a recovery day.