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New Study: Virginia is One of the Hardest States to Vote In

Northern Illinois University

Just how difficult is it to vote in Virginia? New research suggests the state ranks towards the bottom when it comes to Election Day barriers.

In arecent study from Northern Illinois University, Virginia ranked 49th in an analysis of inconveniences faced by voters across the country.

Michael Pomante is a co-author on the study. He says Virginia’s low ranking can be attributed to a number of different policies:

“Virginia has, you must be registered in 22 days in advance. That’s a significant burden on voters. The state also doesn’t have any early voting. When it comes to absentee voting, they require an excuse and supporting evidence depending on the excuse," says Pomante. "And then, they are also requiring strict voter ID laws.”

Pomante says the state could drastically alter its position in the rankings by making the voter registration process easier. That could come in the form of Election Day or automatic registration policies.

Virginia did receive one positive note – online registration, which was implemented back in 2013.

Nick Gilmore is a meteorologist, news producer and reporter/anchor for RADIO IQ.
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