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Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin Wants to Change Voting Registration Rules Nationwide
Youngkin's Proposed Changes
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has proposed changes to the state's voting registration rules that would make it more difficult for people to register to vote. The changes would require people to provide a photo ID when they register to vote, and they would also eliminate the option of registering to vote online.
The Problem with Youngkin's Proposals
Youngkin's proposals are unnecessary and would make it more difficult for people to vote. There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in Virginia, and the changes would disproportionately affect people of color, low-income people, and young people.
Disproportionate Impact on Minorities
Studies have shown that requiring a photo ID to vote can disproportionately impact people of color, low-income people, and young people. These groups are less likely to have a photo ID, and they are also more likely to face barriers to obtaining one.
Unnecessary Changes
Youngkin's proposals are unnecessary because there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in Virginia. In fact, a recent study by the Brennan Center for Justice found that there were only 31 credible instances of voter fraud out of over 1 billion votes cast in the 2016 election.
Solutions to Increase Voter Turnout
Instead of making it more difficult to vote, Youngkin should focus on solutions that would increase voter turnout. These solutions could include making Election Day a holiday, expanding early voting, and making it easier to register to vote.
Conclusion
Youngkin's proposals to change Virginia's voting registration rules are unnecessary and would make it more difficult for people to vote. There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in Virginia, and the changes would disproportionately affect people of color, low-income people, and young people. Instead of making it more difficult to vote, Youngkin should focus on solutions that would increase voter turnout.