Thinking about Elections

VOTER ID. We all want only eligible voters to vote so voter ID is a good thing. In the US, voters are eligible to vote based on citizenship, age, and where they live. These factors are checked in the voter registration process, which is the first step in identifying voters. Further along, on election day at the polls, how do poll workers know that a voter is who they say they are? As with all things about election administration, it varies by state. Here are some quick summary facts. More details state by state at the link. Also, Google “[state name] acceptable voter ID” to go to your secretary of state’s website. This is the office that oversees elections in each state.

Thirty-six states require voters to show an ID at the polls each time they vote, a photo-ID or identifying documentation like a utility bill, bank statement or paycheck.

In 14 states and DC, there are non-documentary ID requirements on election day, meaning voters must verify their identity in other ways, such as by signing an affidavit or poll book, or by providing personal information. Many states requiring signatures or signed affidavits mandate that elections officials compare these signatures to the signatures on voters’ registration forms (voter's registration signature is in the poll book next to their name.)

All states have procedures for challenging voter eligibility.

Voter ID has been a hot topic for at least the last decade. Each state defines its acceptable forms of ID. This is a good procedure, but it can be a tool in tilting the electorate. For example, while in many states a student ID is an acceptable form of ID, in TX it is not. In TX, a gun permit is on the list of acceptable IDs, but a student ID is not.

https://www.ncsl.org/elections-and-campaigns/voter-id