I applauded letter writer Margaret C, Scharf for her comment about the East St. Louis Board of Elections. The Democratic team political literature told citizens to vote "no" to change the election law, knowing only a "yes" vote would change it.

The willful and intentional way they deceived this underserved population to keep control of the votes speaks volume for their integrity. The scheme use by them for their own political game of winning elections in East St. Louis should have consequences for them next election.

Keep in mind that every household in East St. Louis received two absentee applications with a self-addressed, stamped envelop to complete and return to the Board of Elections for absentee ballots. This made it obvious that these elected officials represent the Board of Elections and not the citizens of the city.

With the volatile nature of the city having 46 police officers and 17 percent unemployment, why else would they continue to spend $300,000 and a county supplement of $100,000 for a duplication of service when the city's dire need is police protection?

Yet again, unsuspecting citizens were told by the St. Clair County Democratic organization to vote "no" to change the election law.

I implore all residents throughout St. Clair County to call the state senator, state representative and County Board chairman to ask why they refuse to let go of the East St. Louis Board of Elections, allowing the money to be used for the safety of the city and its citizens.

Dorothy Joshway

East St. Louis