Voter ID: Much Ado About Nothing

By Gene Arnold, former legislator and NC SPIN panelist.  Everyone should have and carry a picture ID.  If you do not have a driver's license, the easiest way to get a picture ID is under the proposed voter ID legislation since it will be provided free of charge.  It's just that simple.  All of the arguments have been made for a person to carry a picture ID.

If you go to the hospital for surgery, they take a picture of you before you can leave the waiting room.   You must show proof of residency today in order to vote.  Voter registrars require a utility bill or similar document as proof of residency.  It will not be long before all businesses, government agencies, and similar institutions will require a picture ID.  It would be much simpler to have a picture ID.

So what's the fuss about?

The fuss is from the NAACP and all Democrats because they do not trust any Republicans and perceive there is something very suspicious in requiring voter ID.  They perceive the Republicans are trying to make it more difficult for African-Americans to vote.    If you watch the polling places today you will see many people being driven to the polls.  When they get out of the bus they will have a 'sample ballot' in their hands to guide them in voting.  If they do not have a sample ballot, one will be provided by any poll worker, be it Democrat or Republican.   Early voting has proven to be the easiest way to vote.  Register and vote on the same day makes voting easy.  Registration at several places, such as any DMV site, encourages easy registration.  So, to ensure the same person who registered is the person voting is also easier with a picture ID.

As I see it, opposition to voter ID is simply much to do over nothing.