Statement of Mayor Paul R. Soglin on Supreme Court Voter ID Ruling

The United States Supreme Court ruling that vacated the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decision requiring Wisconsin voters to present photo IDs at the November 4, 2014 election supports equity and social justice in our state.

A recent report issued by the General Accounting Office (GAO) found that "laws requiring voters to show identification when they cast a ballot have a greater impact on African Americans and younger voters than on other racial and age groups."

A person’s ability to exercise their constitutional protected right to vote should not be limited by their race, age, or economic status. The Supreme Court decision ensures that the November 4 election will not be an exercise in voter suppression but will again allow all Wisconsin residents the opportunity to cast their ballot.