Voter i.d.

The next time N.C. voters go to the polls, they may have to offer more than their names and signatures. They might need a photo ID.

Republicans who take control of the General Assembly in January want to make North Carolina the 10th state requiring voters to show a driver's license or other photo ID. House leaders hope to pass a bill in their first 100 days.

Supporters call it a common-sense way to avoid voter fraud.

"It's necessary to ensure the integrity of the entire system," says GOP Rep. Ric Killian, a Charlotte Republican who sponsored a similar measure in 2009.

Skeptics fear it would dampen turnout, particularly among the elderly and disadvantaged, who tend to vote Democratic. Some say it's simply unnecessary.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/12/06/1959602/nc-gop-to-push-for-voter-photo.html

Why is this a partisan issue?

If you can show your driver's license or other government issued identification to board a plane, check into a hotel, cash a check or use your credit card, you should be willing to show it before you vote.