By slim margin, poll respondents reject using student IDs for voting

The Record’s online poll from March 1-8 asked readers whether they think adding university-issued photo IDs to the list of acceptable forms of voter identification would be beneficial.

Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) recently introduced legislation, HB1950, to add university-issued photo IDs to the list of acceptable forms of identification.

Currently, acceptable forms of identification for voters to present when they go to the polls include a either a Texas Driver License, Texas Election Identification Certificate,Texas Personal Identification Card or Texas Handgun License – all issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Other acceptable identification include a United States Military Identification Card (with photograph), a United States Citizenship Certificate or United States Passport – but ID cards from the state’s universities don’t qualify.

Proponents of the legislation say it will increase civic engagement among young people, in a state with historically low voter turnout. Others argue that strict voter ID laws protect against election fraud.

A Facebook commenter under the name Nicole Walters Ashby said they don’t approve because often student voters don’t stay in college towns long enough to be affected by local voting outcomes.

“Nope easily forged and do we really want temporary residents vote on local politics that really doesn’t affect them in the long run. They don’t stick around long enough to reap what they sow,” Ashby said.

But others argue that voter eligibility isn’t tied to an ID, because being a registered voter proves eligibility, and having an ID just proves identity.

“Eligibility is not determined by ID. It is determined by registering and being put on the rolls by the county elections administrator. There are people with lots of the currently allowed ID who aren’t eligible to vote. Resident aliens, legal folks with green cards or other visas can have drivers licenses and can’t vote. The ID doesn’t prove eligibility. It proves identity,” a Facebook commenter under the name Tim Bauerkemper said.

The poll asking, “Do you think adding university-issued photo IDs to the list of acceptable forms of voter identification is beneficial?” received a total of 213 votes, with the majority of votes — 51 percent or 109 votes — going to option “No, it could increase chances of voter fraud.” Forty-nine percent of voters, or 104 votes, chose, “Yes, it will increase voter turnout.”

A very slim majority of poll voters think adding university-issued photo IDs to the list of acceptable forms of voter identification would not be beneficial because it could increase chances of voter fraud. Every week, the Record gives its readers the opportunity to voice their opinions on different topics. This poll does not, and does not purport to, accurately depict public opinion. It is only intended to inspire thought-provoking discussion within the community.

SMDR’s new poll is available online now, and asks readers what they think about state legislation that would allow Texas parents to administer a driving test for their teens to get their license instead of the Texas Department of Public Safety. It can be voted on now.