Prune Juice Media

Voter Suppression Just Got Real In Pennsylvania

Posted on 16. Aug, 2012 by Stevie in Election 2012

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett is at the center of the voter ID controversy in his state.  (Photo by Bradley C. Bower/AP)

Things are heating up in Pennsylvania these days and it’s not because of the weather.

Unfortunately, voter suppression efforts have taken a steel grip over the state and people are just now responding and educating themselves.

A lower court in the state ruled on Wednesday that state’s new voter ID law signed into law by Gov. Tom Corbett still stands. The ruling requires all of the state’s voters show a government-issued ID card in order to vote.

To some, this may seem routine. I’ve heard some say, “Who wouldn’t have a government-issued ID card?”

Well, a lot of people don’t. And when you look at the black community it’s even worse. Some unemployed people and the elderly are able to move through life without one. The causes of them not having the ID aren’t as important as them being DENIED the right to vote.

Those against the requirements have filed an appeal with the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and to have the decision ruled unconstitutional. They have also involved the U.S. Department of Justice because they believe ruling violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Thankfully, this story is gaining some national attention with prominent segments on MSNBC and CNN that I’ve seen. My fear is, however, if people will be able to get the information in time to get ID’s before the election. Or, what happens if voting isn’t even on their radar now and the October 9 registration deadline in Pennsylvania passes?

We have a lot of work to do people….

Tags: governor, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Tom Corbett, U.S. Department of Justice, voter ID, voter suppression, Voting Rights Act of 1965