This may be quickly shot down, but I simply don't understand why Election Day shouldn't be postponed this year because of the storm.
If some club or civic organization had scheduled an election on a certain day, and due to some catastrophe or other unexpected circumstances a significant portion of the voters would not be able to participate on that date, the officers of the organization would most likely consider a resolution to move the election date. To me, this is what should be done in a democracy.
Thinking about New Jersey, for example - let's say a significant fraction (say 20%) of New Jersey voters were in such an unfortunate circumstance that they could not vote on November 6th. Then, presumably, this would imply that there are cities or counties in New Jersey where 50% or more of voters can't vote on the 6th. This would especially affect their local elections. Why not re-schedule election day? I simply don't get it.
Perhaps it would take an act of congress to postpone the election. Then why not do so? I just can't imagine what is so sacred about the 2nd Tuesday of November, that it shouldn't be moved? Voting is one of the most sacred rights afforded the people of this country (or any democratic entity). At some point not too long ago, it was decided to change the dates on which Memorial Day, Martin Luther King Day, President's day, and Columbus day are celebrated - we now celebrate them on a Monday; this wasn't the case years ago. Why the change? Probably for convenience and other logical reasons. Well ... I believe there are much more compelling reasons to move Election Day (and just for this one year) than for convenience. How about to preserve and respect our democracy? This has nothing to do with my support for Obama - I don't think the storm will hurt his chances, and probably will help. But what I want most of all is a fair and square election, and one that reflects the will of the people.
When Obama wins, I want it to be the case that everyone had the opportunity to vote. Perhaps even more importantly, what about all the other races that are taking place - the Senate, House of Reps, state elections, county offices, etc.?
Why not have it postponed for a week or two?? Isn't it worth the "trouble" to help guarantee a fair election?
I just had to ask.