Wisconsin ID law may impact November election

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- With Wisconsin's ID law back in play, many are now wondering about its impact on the November election.

Governor Scott Walker says the state's voter ID requirement is a major victory for Wisconsinites.

"It is easy to vote now in this state, but hard to cheat!" said Walker.

It's been a long and winding path for voter ID. U.S. District Judge, Lynn Adelman struck the law down as unconstitutional in April, saying it unfairly burdens poor and minority voters who may lack suck identification.

"Well, actually, I think that assumption is inaccurate to begin with," Walker said.

Republican Attorney General, J.B. Van Hollen asked the 7th District Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago to overturn that ruling -- late Friday, September 12th, the "stay" was lifted.

"People regardless of race, age, or status will have no problems getting access to a photo ID in the state," said Walker.

Groups like the Milwaukee chapter of the NAACP and league of women voters disagree, arguing some individuals don't have access to necessary paperwork like a birth certificate that is needed to obtain an ID. But Walker says state ID's are easy and free to obtain.

"I think there has been extensive testimony to that effect.  Yes, this might hurt people but I think people are paying close attention," said Democrat State Representative, Jon Richards.

Richards says the requirement is energizing the left in the last few weeks before the November election.

"From the very beginning of this campaign, we were focused on getting out the vote and making sure everyone who is eligible to vote is able to vote," Richards said.

Richards says that strategy remains the same, but admits there could be an added benefit.

"We're talking about seniors, students, veterans, people who have been impacted by this decision - you're going to see people come out and vote maybe even in higher numbers," Richards said.

Governor Walker remains hopeful voter ID will not face any additional challenges. However, the judge in this case only lifted the "stay" -- a final decision is expected in the coming weeks.