The Texas GOP is at it again.
Earlier this year, they passed draconian legislation, closing down all but 5 of the state’s abortion clinics, despite State Senator Wendy Davis’ historic filibuster. Now, they’ve decided the only way to win elections is to stop women from participating at all.
As of November 5, Texans must show a photo ID with their up-to-date legal name...according to the Brennan Center for Justice, only 66% of voting age women have ready access to a photo document that will attest to proof of citizenship. This is largely because young women have not updated their documents with their married names, a circumstance that doesn’t affect male voters. Suddenly 34% of women voters are scrambling for an acceptable ID, while 99% of men are home free.
Do you have your original marriage license? Or birth certificate? Because, if not, you can’t prove your name was legally changed, and, thus, cannot vote in Texas. Women are, of course, more likely to support the Democratic Party, including Senator Wendy Davis herself, who is now running for Governor. If this law stays in place, she has no chance of winning. Everyone is affected regardless of status, even a Texas Judge.
We can’t let this stand. If Texas can do this, then, soon, other Republican legislatures will follow. Stand up for Texas women and call on the Department of Justice to strike down Texas law as being in violation of the Voting Rights Act immediately.
Dear US Department of Justice,
The recent moves by the Texas Legislature to restrict the ability of women to vote through draconian voter ID laws is despicable.
Please take measures to ensure that this law does go into effect and disenfranchise up to 34% of Texas women.
Sincerely,
