Voter ID laws a hassle but worth choice in elections

By Tribune Staff

January 26, 2012

The 2012 elections aren’t only about which candidates you are going to vote for, but rather how you are actually going to be able to vote, thanks to a new voter ID law impacting people across Wisconsin.

This year, people without a valid Wisconsin driver’s license or identification card, U.S. passport or U.S. military photo ID will be required to have an official voter ID to cast a ballot. This means students will no longer be allowed to use a Marquette ID to vote in Wisconsin.

Many people are opposed to this new law and some find it cumbersome and even unconstitutional. If you are completely against the voter ID law or do not understand it, you may decide to simply not vote.

This is potentially the worst political decision you could make.

It is your responsibility as a citizen to educate yourself about this new law, not simply ignore it. In fact, this year is the first time the majority of Marquette students will be able to vote in the presidential election. Why would you not exercise your right to vote just because you “don’t understand the law” or “don’t have time” to get a voter ID?

In reality, it is not a very long process to get your new ID. All you have to do is go to Union Station and fill out an application for your MU voter ID card (a process that takes a whopping two minutes). After you pick up your ID, you must bring an Account Activity Report (found on Checkmarq) to voter registration. You must also bring the report to the polls on Election Day to verify your enrollment at Marquette. Sounds easier than you thought, right? We think so.

If you complain about past, current or potential politicians, do what you can to make a difference and voice your opinion. If you do not vote because it seems too complicated, you are adding to the belief that this generation does not care. Do not let this new law deter you from exercising your civic duty.