Chantilly Perspective: Is the New Virginia Voter ID Law a Good Idea?

On Sunday, we asked Patch readers whether they thought the new requirement for a photo ID when voting starting in 2014 is just a new partisan hurdle in the voting process or is a good idea to combat voter fraud.

You can read more about the new requirements here.

Here’s what a few of your Chantilly neighbors had to say about the new law:

A reader named David wrote, “You need a photo ID for everything today (driving, banking, etc.). why should you need one to vote. What are the Dems afraid of? Most seniors have them and all college students have them. Most dead people do not, as well as most illegals. It is the best way to stop fraud.”

Debbie wrote: “As I understand the law, free photo ids will be made available and voters without photo IDs will be given adequate time to obtain the new ID. I don't understand the problem. I think it's a good idea.”

Walter said: “We need a national quality control audit on voting, for faith in the system if no other reason. Our elections are a mess and you may just look at the Bush/Gore battle in Florida for an idea of the problems. The idea that whole cemeteries vote in some jurisdictions has been an ongoing joke for generations. In terms of prosecutions, exactly when did you ever hear of anyone actively investigating?”

Do you agree with your Chantilly neighbors? Tell us in the comments below!