Standing Up for Election Integrity — Support Voter ID in San Diego County
- Media
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
On Tuesday, I’m bringing forward a vital proposal at the Board of Supervisors meeting — one that speaks directly to the heart of our democracy: election integrity.
In the United States, we’re required to show identification for nearly every important activity in life: driving, flying, buying a home, getting a job, receiving government benefits — and the list goes on. Yet in California, one of the most important responsibilities we have as citizens — voting — is exempt.
That’s not just wrong, it’s dangerous.
Last year, Sacramento passed Senate Bill 1174, a law that prohibits local governments from requiring voter ID.
It strips local control and opens our elections to potential abuse — undermining confidence in the democratic process.
That’s why I’m proposing San Diego County push back. My legislation would formally add support for voter ID laws to our county’s legislative platform and urge the state to reverse SB 1174.
This is not controversial. In fact:
81% of Americans support requiring photo ID to vote (Pew Research)
38 U.S. states have implemented some form of voter ID
Dozens of countries around the world require ID to vote
Voter ID laws protect against impersonation, double voting, and help ensure only eligible citizens cast a ballot. They strengthen trust and make our system more secure — not less.
If you need an ID to board a plane or buy a beer, you should need one to vote.
San Diegans — and all Californians — deserve confidence in the system. Voter ID is a commonsense safeguard we should all support.
Let’s protect our elections and restore public trust in the process.
By San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond
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