Despite widespread accusations of voter suppression, a Pennsylvania judge ruled to keep the state’s new voter ID law intact. Commonwealth Court Judge Robert Simpson declined to grant an injunction to block the controversial new law, which could have a major impact on voting in the swing state and, ultimately, the upcoming presidential election.
Opponents plan to file an appeal with the state Supreme Court within the next few days.
Now, every voter in the state must show a valid photo ID — they key word being valid. The new states “all photo IDs must contain an expiration date that is current, unless noted otherwise.”
Supporters of the law helps stop election fraud. Critics argue the Republican-backed bill wrongfully targets Democratic voters and will mostly disenfranchise the poor, minorities, the elderly and students. Only adding fuel to the fire, Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Mike Turzai suggested an ulterior motive for pushing the legislation, saying the new law “is going to allow Governor Romney to win the state of Pennsylvania.” Last Word guest host Chris Hayes pointed out the actual trick to stopping election fraud, isn’t voter roll purges or voter ID laws, it’s government bureaucrats in the attorney general’s office doing their jobs well.
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