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Is it harder to buy beer than vote? The reality behind a viral talking point.

Poynter · Amy Sherman · last updated

The House-passed SAVE Act revived a catchy claim about ID laws. The facts behind alcohol purchases and voting are far more nuanced.

As Republicans pushed for a national photo voter ID law, they made a familiar argument: If people need an ID for everyday purchases, why not for voting?

The Save America Act, which passed the House Feb. 11 with unanimous GOP support, would mandate that all states require a photo ID to vote in person or by mail.

U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, R-Wis., said during debate that when he recently went to buy a six-pack, the clerk asked to see his ID even though she recognized him. Steil is 44.

“I think it’s nuts that we protect our beer in this country more than our ballots in jurisdictions,” Steil said Feb. 11.

Hold my beer. Is that true?

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