Well, it’s Election Day here in Nevada today, and once again voters are able to cast their ballots without showing a valid ID. In that spirit of illogical nonsense, here is a quick list of 10 things that require showing ID:
- Purchase Alcohol or Tobacco: You need to show a valid ID to prove you are of legal age to buy these products.
- Board a Plane: Whether for domestic or international travel, a valid ID is necessary to pass through airport security and board your flight.
- Open a Bank Account: Banks require a valid ID to verify your identity before you can open an account.
- Rent a Car: Rental car companies require a valid ID, along with a valid driver’s license, to rent a vehicle.
- Apply for a Job: Employers typically require a valid ID to verify your identity and eligibility to work.
- Enter Certain Government Buildings: Access to some government buildings and facilities requires a valid ID for security purposes.
- Check into a Hotel: Hotels often require a valid ID at check-in to confirm your reservation and identity.
- Apply for a Loan or Credit: Financial institutions require a valid ID to verify your identity before approving a loan or credit application.
- Pick Up Prescriptions: Some pharmacies require a valid ID to verify your identity when you pick up certain medications.
- Purchasing a Firearm. In many places, individuals must present a valid ID to verify their identity and age when buying a gun. Additionally, the ID is often used to conduct background checks as part of the purchasing process to ensure the buyer meets all legal requirements.
So doesn’t it make sense to require an ID to vote as well? Sure, requiring an ID to vote is a topic of considerable debate. Proponents argue that it helps ensure the integrity of elections by preventing fraud and verifying the identity of voters, much like it does for other activities requiring a valid ID. They believe it strengthens trust in the electoral process.
On the other hand, opponents argue that voter ID requirements can disproportionately affect certain groups, such as the elderly, minorities, and low-income individuals, who may have more difficulty obtaining a valid ID. They contend that this could suppress voter turnout and disenfranchise eligible voters.
What one is you? It seems to me that the choice is clear.