American democracy lost someone very important yesterday

Few people who voted last November had even heard of him. But all of those who voted and felt assured that their votes would count owe a debt to John Gideon.

I'd been reading John's posts for a long time at Bradblog, where the cause of voting integrity is a never-ending battle. John was co-director of VotersUnite.org, and was a tireless advocate of transparency in the election process. He was also Brad's very good friend. I only know his work from VotersUnite's web site and from his regular posts at Bradblog (and he was a far more conscientious guest poster than I've been). But for Brad, John was also a good friend, and I'll let him speak for just how important John Gideon was:

While the fight for democracy in this country has become somewhat less lonely as the Election Integrity movement has grown since then, thanks in no small part to the tireless, daily contributions of John, it feels very lonely again today. My good friend passed away this evening in a Seattle hospital, having succumbed to a surprise and sudden bout with bacterial meningitis.

John held on as long as he could, but tonight he'll rest with his beloved wife who passed some years ago.

He was 62, and a Vietnam veteran who never stopped fighting for his fellow veterans and in service of our country. He is survived by his son Rick and young grandson Collin, and a life-long legacy of fighting in defense of his nation, and for all that it stands for. He has left that legacy behind as a gift --- and challenge --- for us all.

More, and an opportunity to extend your condolences to Brad here.