Today's Must Read: Gallegos, In His Own Words

» Chron: Why right to vote, without an ID, is worth fighting for (State Sen. Mario Gallegos)

For many folks, a voter ID requirement doesn't sound like a big deal, but it would prevent many eligible voters from voting. Many elderly voters don't have a driver's license. Others who are disabled or work two jobs don't have the time, money or ability to get an ID card or documents they would need to vote. And new voter ID requirements would create confusion and long lines at the polls that would discourage many from voting.

When more people vote for American Idol contestants than vote for president, we should make it easier for people to vote, not harder. Voter ID proponents say it's necessary to combat "voter fraud" and raise the specter of "illegal aliens" voting, but no one has documented a single case of "voter impersonation" that HB 218 would solve. And common sense tells us noncitizens are not going to risk deportation by voting.

God as my witness, I never thought I'd live to see the day when I'd be saluting Mario Gallegos and John Whitmire as heros in the Senate. But here we are.

Recently, I had my wallet, MP3 player, flash drive, and cell phone stolen from my apartment. I doubt I'll have time to get a replacement ID between now and June 16. Whoever out there who wants to tell me that that warrants not being able to cast a vote can try mustering the courage to addressing me personally on the matter.