Letter to the Editor

Editor:
In an article published on October 26th, the author, Mr. Micek states black and brown voters are more likely to be the targets of voter suppression efforts… I’m curious as to what kind of voter suppression is purportedly being used against minority voters.

The only one I have heard recently is states that are attempting to require photo ID for voting purposes. The excuse given is that minorities are unable to access these forms of identification.

This seems like a weak tea argument to me, where do these voters live that can’t find a place to get their ID from? Pennsylvania offers both drivers licenses and state photo ID cards that can be used even if the person does not drive. The cost of these state issued ID is $32.50, the documentation requirements are pretty common as well: Birth certificate or valid US passport and proof of residency (mortgage statement, utility bill, lease agreement) and social security card.

Which of these low hurdles is the issue for minority citizens? If Dems are really worried that POC are unable to attain these cards why not address the hurdles they feel are an issue? Waive the fee for folks below poverty level, same for any fees for obtaining their official copy of their birth certificate. They already have all the rest presumably. Maybe allow documents to be submitted in a prepaid envelope for those unable to drive to the DMV. Setup local or mobile photo centers that can visit the biggest concentrations of these people you’re so worried about being left behind. The presidential elections are four years apart, surely 48 months is sufficient time to get these steps completed.

Have I missed something, or is this really just the manifestation of the soft bigotry of low expectations? Seems to me that you don’t want POCs to believe that they can accomplish even the most menial of tasks that most 16-17 year olds in this state accomplish.

Rob Harley
Mill Hall, PA