The US Supreme Court on Monday turned down hearing a case challenging a Wisconsin law that asks voters to show their photo identification before casting a ballot.
As the political temperature is soaring with each passing day as the 2016 presidential election inches closer, the US top court said that it would not be examining the constitutionality of a Wisconsin law that requires its voters to present a valid photo identification proof before exercising their franchise.
The Supreme Court was sought to hear a case challenging a 2011 voter photo ID law which has been enacted in Wisconsin.
With the top court’s denial, the way has been cleared for Wisconsin officials to continue asking for photo ID proofs before casting their ballot.
However, it’s still unclear if the law will be enforced in the general election of the state on April 7.
Supporters of the Wisconsin measure say it helps prevent voter fraud and fosters public confidence in the election process.
Opponents argue that requiring someone to show a drivers license or other photographic proof of identity is a substantial burden to would-be voters – particularly among minority and low-income citizens who may lack the required photo ID or the underlying documents necessary to obtain one.
In her brief on behalf of all the people who challenged the state law, Washington appellate lawyer Lisa Blatt wrote, “This case raises issues of profound national importance. Millions of registered voters, disproportionately African Americans and Latinos, lack a qualifying photo ID needed to vote under laws in Wisconsin and other states.”
According to a federal judge, an estimated 300,000 voters, or 9 percent of the total registered voters in the Wisconsin, lack the requisite photo identification proof.
The top court’s justices provided no explanation or comment for their order of turning down the case hearing.