Judge Upholds NC Voter ID Law, GOP Wins

0:00It's March 27. I'm Cory with the story, and this is Global News Today, your AI-powered world briefing. A federal judge in North Carolina upheld the state's photo voter identification law this week. U.S. District Judge Loretta Biggs rejected claims from civil rights groups that Republicans passed it in late 2018 to discriminate against. Black and Latino voters. The ruling marks a big win for GOP leaders, coming soon after voters approved a related constitutional amendment. The case stem from a spring 2024 trial brought by the state NAACP. They argued the requirements oppresses votes from groups that lean Democratic. Defenders for Republicans highlighted how the law allows a wide range of IDs, more than a prior version, struck down, and serves goals like building. Election trust amid rare fraud cases. Republican Senate leader Phil Berger praised the outcome as proof of the law's solid standing. Senate NAACP leaders expressed deep frustration over barriers it creates for minority voters

1:01and have not ruled out an appeal. The decision notes heavier impacts on black and Hispanic communities, but defers to lawmakers under prior court guidance. Earlier injunctions had blocked the law, but appeals courts overturned them, emphasizing less focus on past legislative history. The measure took effect for 2023 municipal elections after the state Supreme Court gave its approval. Three photo IDs remain available at county offices and motor vehicle divisions, with provisional voting options for those without one. As North Carolina joins 36 other states with poll ID rules, questions around access and security keep shaping election talks.