Gov. Christie on Monday vetoed legislation that would have brought sweeping changes to the state’s voting laws, panning the bill as “thinly veiled political gamesmanship.” … Christie’s veto was met with immediate criticism from Democrats and groups such as the state conference of the NAACP, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Latino Action Network, and New Jersey Working Families. Democrats said the bill was intended to boost voter participation. They had anticipated a veto, and a few months ago Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D., Gloucester) said he would consider asking voters to amend the constitution to implement the changes.
Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D., Hudson) reiterated that message Monday. To put the amendment on the ballot next year, three-fifths of both houses of the Legislature would have to support it.
The bill passed along party lines in the Democratic-controlled Legislature in June. It would establish automatic registration when eligible voters apply for a driver’s license or other form of state ID at the Motor Vehicle Commission; offer online registration; and create more opportunities for in-person early voting.
Read More Christie vetoes changes to N.J. voting laws.