Both the Registrars of Voters Association of Connecticut and the Connecticut Town Clerks Association urged Secretary of the State Merrill to recommend a postponement of our April 28 presidential primary, saying that her suggestion to use no-excuse absentee is not an alternative to a delay.

We appreciate the substantial difficulties that a vote-by-mail primary creates, but believe the idea should be thoroughly explored before postponing our primary election. Without seriously considering the option, the registrars of voters and town clerks aren't demonstrating sufficient regard for the sanctity of our democratic institutions.

If you agree, please share our petition calling on Gov. Lamont to adopt Secretary Merrill's recommendation to allow the "illness" reason to vote by absentee ballot.