Letter: We need more than election reform to restore trust in our system

In this Oct. 8, 2018, file photo, local residents wait in line for their ballot at the Polk County Election office on the first day of early voting for the Iowa general election in Des Moines, Iowa. | Charlie Neibergall, Associated Press

I think there’s more to it than election reform (“Our election system needs reform, and most Americans agree,” March 7). Election reform is good and needed and can change the way elections are carried out, but it won’t do much to restore trust in the system.

We need to learn to have conversations that avoid contempt, anger, accusations, etc., because those erode trust. As long as we have leaders saying things like, “It doesn’t matter what this investigation uncovers or proves, we really know this,” no reform or law or measure will solve the distrust of the election system.

Rarely do I hear a politician say, “Even though I don’t like this, it is legitimate. Here’s how I want to improve the future results or system.” In such a simple statement, I know their position, but it doesn’t erode faith in anything. It’s respectful but doesn’t diminish what they want to accomplish.

Spencer Landeen

Layton

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