RALEIGH – The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina released the following statement from executive director Chantal Stevens in response to today’s historic midterm voter turnout and unofficial election results:
"Voters made their voices heard in record numbers in today’s midterm election, which is a hopeful sign for the future of our democracy. Win or lose, we will continue to advocate for civil rights and liberties in the legislature, in the courts, and in the streets.
"This was the first election where more than 56,000 North Carolinians who were previously incarcerated were able to register to vote and cast their ballots. Our state and our democracy have been made stronger and more just by the restoration of voting rights to thousands of our friends, family, and neighbors who can now exercise this fundamental right of citizenship.
"North Carolinians’ constitutional rights and civil liberties are under increasing threat from elected leaders in Washington, Raleigh, and in our own local governments and school boards. While the ACLU does not endorse or oppose candidates, we will continue to give voters the tools to vote their values and have informed conversations with their friends and families. We will not stop fighting in the courts, in the General Assembly, in Congress, and up and down the ballot to protect the rights and civil liberties of all North Carolinians."
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