Requiring photo identification to vote is one of the most popular election policies in the United States, enjoying widespread support across political lines, economic/racial demographics. According to recent surveys by Pew Research Center and Gallup, Americans overwhelmingly favor voter ID laws, though the intensity of support varies between parties.
A February 2024 report from Pew Research found that 80% of Americans support requiring a photo ID to vote. This includes nearly all Republicans (95%) and a substantial majority of Democrats (69%). While voter ID is broadly favored across the political spectrum, the 26-point gap highlights the partisan differences in how strongly the measure is embraced. Similarly, Gallup’s 2022 polling showed similar nationwide approval, with 79% of respondents backing photo ID requirements for voting. These findings underscore the widespread belief that voter ID is a commonsense measure to ensure election integrity.
In Wisconsin, the debate over voter ID laws is intensifying ahead of a critical Supreme Court race and a potential statewide referendum. Liberal Supreme Court candidate Susan Crawford, who led a legal challenge to overturn Wisconsin’s voter ID law in 2011, has been vocal in her criticism of the policy. In contrast, her conservative opponent, Brad Schimel, has been a vocal supporter of voter ID and around defending the law, citing his experience enforcing it as Wisconsin’s Attorney General. Meanwhile, Republicans in the state legislature are working to pass a constitutional amendment to permanently enshrine voter ID requirements. If the amendment clears the Assembly and Senate this session, it will appear on the April ballot, giving Wisconsin voters the final say.
Supporters of voter ID laws argue that they are critical for safeguarding elections and boosting public confidence in the voting process. Critics contend that such laws can create barriers for certain groups, particularly low-income and minority voters, who may face challenges in obtaining the necessary identification.
However, polls show black and Hispanic Americans are very supportive of voter ID laws. The Gallup polls shows that there is no statistical difference in overall support between minorities and whites. This tension is playing out not only in Wisconsin but also in national debates about election reform.
As efforts to solidify voter ID laws gain momentum in Wisconsin and beyond, the upcoming referendum and judicial election will serve as pivotal moments for determining how these policies are implemented and sustained- and how much voters care about them.