Exhausted after an all-night debate but assured of victory, Republicans today rammed a bill requiring Texas voters to present identification papers through the first Senate vote on the bitterly partisan issue.
After emotional pleas to stop the bill, and expert and public testimony that begin Tuesday and didn't end until shortly before 9 a.m.today, the so-called "Voter ID" bill passed a special Senate panel 20-12.
The "committee of the whole" includes all 31 senators and Republican Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst. While the bill must still get a final Senate vote, today's action all but assures it will pass and be sent to the House as early as Monday.
The bill is being driven by Senate Republicans over fierce opposition from Democrats, who promised a legal challenge if the bill ultimately passes.
| Yup, no one ever asks the Dhimmis why it is I have to show an ID to cash a check and drive a car but not to vote ... |
|