RGV communities are low-income, under-resourced, and have higher poverty rates compared to other Texas counties. These communities were particularly hard hit by the pandemic, and are still suffering the harmful economic and health effects.
Texas Turnout is focused on registering young, first-time voters. They’re going out to high schools, universities, and local community events across the RGV to engage young voters about the value of civic participation, and get them registered to vote.
If those new voters don’t have an ID — that’s when Texas Turnout refers them to the VoteRiders team. Young voters are far less likely to have a government-issued photo ID than older folks (our recent research found that 39% of 18 and 19 year olds do not have a current driver’s license), and Texas does not accept a student ID to vote.
We work with the new voters Texas Turnout has registered and help them get their ID — including covering any associated fees and transportation to and from appointments.
Having a valid ID not only allows new voters to vote, it means they can apply for a job, secure housing, access medical care, and so much more. In the border communities of the RGV, an ID is particularly important so that they can easily identify themselves to Border Patrol when traveling.
We are proud of the difference Texas Turnout is making — and we can’t wait to see all their newly registered voters cast their first ballots in municipal elections on Saturday! We are honored to partner with such a vital community organization.
Read more about the incredible work of Texas Turnout, and our important partnership together.
Thank you for supporting the critical work getting voters free ID help!
Selene M. Gomez
National Outreach Director & Texas Voter ID Coalition Coordinator
VoteRiders
