Poll workers across the country have a new task: asking for ID. Thirty-three states now have voter ID laws. Fifteen were passed or strengthened since President Obama took office. “It’s an unfortunate and cynical attempt to undermine the voting rights of students, of elderly, of poor,” said Newark Mayor Cory Booker. The rush of new requirements was a topic of conversation at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte. “If you want every American to vote and you think it is wrong to change voting procedures, just to reduce the turnout of younger, poorer, minority and disabled voters, you should support Barack Obama,” former President Bill Clinton said in his convention speech.
Advocates and even celebrities say the laws could prevent voters from going to the polls this fall, especially minorities. “I don’t think we can take for granted that the sheer number of Latinos in this country is going to translate to empowerment and showing up at the polls,” said actress America Ferrera. Some think the issue could make or break the election for the president.
Voting rights advocates say voter ID laws disproportionately affect less affluent or minority voters, who they say are more likely to be Democrats. The laws have been enacted in several key swing states like Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Full Article: Decision 2012: Voter ID Laws Could Impact Election – NY1.com.