Supreme Court Turns Back Clock on Voting Rights
Washington, DC,
June 25, 2013
I implore my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to act forcefully and expeditiously to protect the most fundamental aspect of our democracy.
Contact: Staci Cox (202) 225- 4572 Washington, D.C. – Today, the Supreme Court of the United States struck down a key provision in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by a vote of 5 to 4. Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) released this statement, expressing her deep disappointment with the ruling. “The Voting Rights Act is one of the greatest civil rights victories in American history,” said Rep. Moore. “This Act is still vitally needed to ward off discriminatory polling practices, evidenced by biased voter identification laws disallowed in Texas and South Carolina last year.” The Voting Rights Act (VRA) is historic legislation that was first implemented to prevent voting discrimination. Section 5 of the VRA requires certain jurisdictions with a history of racial discrimination to gain preclearance before altering voting laws. “This Act is a profound symbol of our commitment to equality. Moreover, this Act has a history of success – bringing millions of disenfranchised Americans out of democracy’s shadows.” Today the Supreme Court struck down Section 4 of the VRA – the formula used to determine which areas of our nation must comply with Section 5, thereby nullifying Section 5 until Congress can implement a new formula. “In 2006, both Democrats and Republicans overwhelmingly voted to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act, reaffirming the law’s importance and relevance. In the same manner, we must come together again. I implore my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to act forcefully and expeditiously to protect the most fundamental aspect of our democracy.” To read the full opinion, please click here. ### For “Moore” News Updates Follow Gwen Moore on Twitter @RepGwenMoore and Like Gwen Moore on Facebook
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