A Fight Over Access and Security in a Key Battleground State

Wisconsin Considers Adding Voter ID to State Constitution

Wisconsin, a key battleground state in presidential elections, is considering adding voter ID requirements to its state constitution. This would make it more difficult to overturn the requirement in the future, even if the state legislature or governor changes hands.

Currently, 36 states have some form of voter ID requirement, with 22 requiring photo IDs. However, only a few states, including Mississippi, Arkansas, and Nebraska, have enshrined these requirements in their constitutions. Nevada recently joined this group in November 2023.

In Wisconsin, the Republican-controlled legislature approved a measure to put the voter ID amendment on the ballot for the April 2024 election. This coincides with the state Supreme Court election.

Supporters of the amendment, like former Governor Scott Walker, argue that it protects the voter ID law from being overturned by an "activist" court. They also point to the high public support for voter ID laws, typically around 70-80%, and the lack of significant issues with voter ID implementation in other states.

Opponents, like Democratic Senator Kelda Roys, argue that the amendment is a form of voter suppression targeting minority voters. They point to studies showing that voter ID laws can disproportionately impact certain groups, particularly those with lower incomes or who are less likely to have government-issued photo IDs.

The debate over voter ID is likely to continue in Wisconsin and across the country. As more states consider adding voter ID requirements to their constitutions, the impact on voter turnout and access will be closely watched.