General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: 69 year old black woman in Virginia brought 4 forms of ID to polls & still couldn't vote [View all]Maeve
(42,282 posts)I work the elections in Ohio; voter ID required, somewhat different rules. The free ID is a wonderful thing. We don't need it as much in Ohio (other id available, as I mentioned in a post above), but I think it's a great idea. For the most part, I think it is the transition phase that is the worst and things get better after a few years. And how voters feel about their votes counting depends very much on how they are treated at the polls (so we smile, be nice and try not to snap back!)
As to why the assumption that the laws are to disenfranchise Dem voters--here's a few news stories that indicate the intent and result of such laws is to do just that...
http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/ex-staffer-wisconsin-gop-intended-id-law-disenfranchise-dems
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/feb/10/voter-id-paper/
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/4/8/1512565/-Republican-staffer-quit-because-colleagues-were-giddy-about-voter-ID-laws-preventing-votes
I would also suggest that since you come from a rural area, you are less likely to see some of the people most affected by some of the rules (urban poor have diferent problems). My experience is mostly with suburban folk with easy access to ID, but some of the younger people are more likely to have to vote provisionally and be discouraged for future votes (and it takes longer, because provisional is paper and has so many more rules and hoops to jump thru). I've heard nightmare stories from further in the city as well, altho I can't speak from experience there.
Again, thanks for bringing a practical and informed POV to the discussion!