Federal Judge Upholds North Carolina Photo Voter ID Law
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Federal Judge Loretta Biggs upheld North Carolina’s photo voter ID law, finding evidence that the requirement disproportionately burdens Black and Hispanic voters and will leave thousands without acceptable ID—potentially meaning their votes “will not count when the election is certified”—but saying recent appellate precedent and a duty to give deference to the legislature’s presumed good faith compelled her to reject claims of discriminatory intent. The ruling, which leaves the law in force for past elections (including the Nov. 2024 general and March 3, 2026 primary) and the 2026 midterms, is a win for GOP lawmakers while civil‑rights groups have not yet decided whether to appeal.