Missouri House Republicans are trying again to enact legislation that would require voters to show photo identification before casting ballots, and they’re hoping the courts or the Democratic governor don’t stand in the way this time. The House gave first-round approval to measures Tuesday that could lead to a voter photo ID requirement. Previous attempts have stalled in the Senate, been vetoed by Gov. Jay Nixon or blocked by judges. As they have in the past, Republican supporters argued Tuesday that a photo ID requirement would protect the integrity of elections and prevent fraud at the ballot box. “Unfortunately it is a reality in life and in modern America that there is voter fraud,” said one of the measure’s sponsors, Rep. Stanley Cox, R-Sedalia.
But Democratic House members argued there isn’t evidence of massive fraud occurring at the state’s polling places. They denounced the legislation as discriminatory and an attempt to disenfranchise voters who are more likely to support Democrats.
“We are going to make war on fundamental voting rights for 220,000 Missourians, for poor people, and for black people so you can entertain a fantasy,” Rep. Chris Kelly, D-Columbia, told House Republicans.
Secretary of State Jason Kander, a Democrat, has estimated that 220,000 people wouldn’t be able to vote if the photo identification requirement is adopted.
Full Article: Mo. House endorses voter photo ID requirement – SFGate.