Press Releases

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Gwen Moore (WI-04) made the following statement about the Voter ID lawsuit brought forth by the League of Women Voters against the state of Wisconsin.

“I applaud the League of Women Voters for their commitment to preserving one of our most sacred democratic rights.  Requiring a strict photo ID card at the polls disenfranchises minorities, low-income folks, the elderly, students, and other vulnerable populations.  For example, we know that 78% of African American males age 18-24 do not have driver’s licenses.  This law is a direct and blatant attack on the same citizens who have struggled throughout our nation’s history for the right to vote.  Obtaining the documentation needed to get an ID, like a birth certificate, costs money and time.  Taking time off from work to travel and wait in line for hours at the DMV is not something that many disadvantaged Wisconsinites can afford to do.  The League of Women Voters has a rich experience fighting for voter equality, and it is no surprise that they are leading the charge to strike down this modern day poll tax.” 

“I plan to introduce a bill in Congress that would bar the requirement of photo IDs as a requirement to vote in federal elections.  When I took my oath as a Member of Congress to uphold and defend the United States Constitution, I took it very seriously.  Our right to vote is one of the most protected rights of any that we enjoy in our democratic system.  In fact, the constitution was amended five times over our nation’s history to reflect this American ideal.  I will continue to fight, much like my predecessors before me, to make voting an equal opportunity regardless of race, status, and age."