Governor Asked to Recant Voluntary Voter ID Statement

JACKSON, Miss.  -- Governor Phil Bryant is taking some heat for saying you should voluntarily show ID at the polls.

 

A group called Voting Rights For All gather at the State Capital Tuesday to call on the Governor to recant those statements.  “Governor (Phil) Bryant should know better than to make such statements, knowing that people listen to what he has to say,” said group leader, David Denney.

Just hours before that press conference, the Legislative Black Caucus gathered in the capitol’s rotunda and accused the governor of both misleading and intimidating voters by suggesting you show your ID at the polls tomorrow.  “ If anyone ask you for ID, please let us know.  And we will launch a full investigation, because your rights have been violated.  And that’s serious business with us,” said Caucus head, Senator Kenny Wayne Jones (D), Canton.

The Governor says he is not trying to mislead anyone, and stands by his statement.  “I think it will help the poll worker find your proper address and identify you,” he said.

Polls are open Tuesday from 7 am to 7 pm.