I like this article a lot. It explains that identification is a requirement in thirty states currently, with half of these requiring it to be a photo identification. This is interesting in the modern times, since one would likely expect that all voters be required to do the same - at least to all show identification! The article then explains, however, why photo identification can be such an issue, particularly if it must be a current government identification, such as a passport or license.
I would like to say that nobody would take advantage of their state's policies not to show identification, but this could easily be manipulated. I come from a small, trusting town where my family has lived for years, and my father occasionally picks up my absentee ballot to bring here. No signing, no questions, no permission needed. Even there, however, you need to show identification before voting - especially the first time you vote.
Considering there are many things you cannot get without current government-issue photo identification today, one would think more state governments would come out with alternatives to the license or passport. I have heard of a few that give non-drivers licenses - essentially identification with a photo for non-drivers. It would seem prudent for more to adopt this practice.
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