Impact of Shelby County v. Holder Decision on Voter Turnout Disparities

SOURCE npr.org
A new study shows that the turnout gap between white and nonwhite voters in the U.S. is growing fastest in areas that were stripped of federal voting protections by a Supreme Court decision in 2013, which allowed states to pass laws making voting difficult for people of color.

Key Points

  • Turnout gap between white and nonwhite voters is widening in areas formerly covered under Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act
  • Supreme Court decision in 2013 allowed states to pass laws making voting difficult for people of color
  • Impact on voter turnout disparities is significant and continues to widen

Pros

  • Increased awareness of the impact of the Shelby County v. Holder decision on voter turnout disparities
  • Highlighting the importance of protecting voting rights for all citizens

Cons

  • Growing disparity in voter turnout between white and nonwhite voters
  • Legislation that makes voting more difficult for people of color