Press Releases

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Applauds 5th Circuit's Ruling Against Texas Voter ID Law

Washington, DC, August 6, 2015

Today, CBC Chairman G. K. Butterfield released the following statement in response to the decision by a panel of judges from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruling that the Texas voter identification law violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and has a discriminatory effect on black and Hispanic voters in Texas.

“The Congressional Black Caucus applauds the decision by the federal appeals panel on Wednesday that said Texas’ voter identification law discriminates against black and Hispanic voters and violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965.  The decision is a timely one as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Texas case reminds us that after 50 years the fight for equal access to the polls is ongoing.  Members of the Congressional Black Caucus vow to continue our fight against these overtly discriminatory and racially motivated initiatives that seek to disenfranchise thousands across the country. We will continue to ensure the right to vote is protected for all Americans.”

Earlier this year, the Congressional Black Caucus filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court urging the justices to review Wisconsin’s 2011 state voter ID law. Additionally, the CBC filed an amicus brief with the North Carolina Supreme Court urging a review of the state’s 2011 redistricting plan.

# # #

Since its establishment in 1971, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) have joined together to empower America’s neglected citizens and address their legislative concerns. For more than 40 years, the CBC has consistently been the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress and has been committed to utilizing the full Constitutional power and statutory authority of the United States government to ensure that all U.S. citizens have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream. To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc-butterfield.house.gov.  

Media inquiries: Candace L. Randle at (202) 593-1331 or Candace.Randle@mail.house.gov