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NC Governor Vetoes Voter ID Bill

North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue (D) on Thursday vetoed a bill to require ID at the polls, saying it would put too much of a burden on voters. “We must always be vigilant in protecting the integrity of our elections,” said the first-term Democrat in a press release. “But requiring every voter to present a government-issued photo ID is not the way to do it.”

The bill passed by the Republican-controlled legislature would have required voters to present a state driver’s license, US passport or other approved photo ID. Those who did not have one could cast a provisional ballot, but would have to present an ID later.

Fourteen states require photo IDs in order to vote, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Democrats argue that the requirement can be particularly difficult for seniors, students, and those living on low incomes.

Media Resources: Reuters 6/23/11; Greensboro News-Record 6/24/11; Governor Perdue Website 6/23/11

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