Jim,

I voted absentee once and I had to prove who I was by filling out part of the form with either a license, state ID, or passport number. I still needed proof of ID.

I still don't see why this requirement "disenfranchises" anyone as the original article I linked to insinuates. I mean, c'mon, you have the responsibility to vote and I would think that you also have the responsibility to provide valid ID.


>SNIP
>>>I think it is a real problem - there are millions of people who don't drive or can use other things that require photo ID.
>>Most states have an ID card that can be used as a form of identification for those without a drivers liscense.
>>
>>
>>>How are housebound people to get an ID?
>>How are they going to get to the polling place? That sounds like an unfeeling comment but I think it's legitimate. If they can arrange to get to a polling place they can arrange to get some valid identification. If they are truly housebound they can still vote by absentee ballot.
>
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>I assumed hat th absentee ballot would no longer be available with the ID being required. Seems it should be canned, logically.
>
>>
>>>How are those who don't drive (or drive anymore) to get in ID?
>>Most states have an ID card that can be used as a form of identification for those without a drivers liscense.
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>With a photo?
>
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>>>What are the very poor to do?
>>I'm not sure that this is particularly relevant. I would expect most have some sort of valid ID so that they can qualify for whatever aid programs they participate in. I would not be surprised to find "action groups" organizing to fund the cost for those who can't afford to get the ID card.
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>With a photo?
>How would 'action groups' get a photo ID for people? I mean, is there a sanctioned/recognized place that one can go to to get a qualifying photo ID
>
>>>
>>
>>>All this requirement can do is to reduce the numbers who vote - which will be used as 'proof' that there must have been voter fraud going on befor.
>>I'm appalled that I can walk into a polling place, sign the register, and get a ballot without having to prove that I am who I say I am. I've asked poll workers how they protect against voter fraud and the answer is basicly a shoulder shrug
>
>I'd be appalled too! Here (Canada) we get a card in the mail telling us where to go to vote - regular and advance polls. When we get to the polling place we are asked to show some form of "ID", but they'll accept a utility bill or other form of mail from any company as long as the name and address match the name/address on the card they issued to us.