A majority of Republicans believe voter fraud is a “major” problem, according to a new Gallup poll, even as in-person fraud is exceedingly rare. Only 26 percent of Democrats think fraudulent voting will be a major problem this election, compared to 52 percent of Republicans. Overall, about a third of the country (36%) thinks voter fraud is a major problem, while 32 percent think it’s a minor problem and 29 percent believe it is not a problem at all.
The poll, released Monday, finds broad support for voter ID laws, with four-in-five Americans supporting them. Not surprisingly, Republicans are more likely to be in favor them, with 95 percent percent supporting a photo ID requirement. However, a solid a majority of Democrats (63 percent) back voter ID laws as well.
Voter ID laws are criticized by civil rights advocates who say certain left-leaning demographic groups — including minorities, college students and low income voters — are being targeted by the GOP restrictions, because it is harder for those voters to obtain the IDs.
Nevertheless, 77 percent of nonwhite voters support voter ID laws. Nonwhite voters are also, however, more likely to believe that eligible voters will not be able to vote in this election. Nearly half (46 percent) think that will be a major problem, compared to 25 percent of white voters.
The survey also found broad support for early voting — a practice used disproportionately by minorities that is often in the crosshairs of GOP legislation restricting voting. Three-quarters of Republicans and 85 percent of Democrats are in favor of voters having a chance to cast their vote before election day.
The survey was taken Aug.15-16 among 1,013 adults nationwide in telephone interviews. The margin of error was four percentage points.
