Judge Won’t Halt Pa. Voter Identification Law

A Pennsylvania judge isn't stopping a tough new voter identification law from going into effect.

Commonwealth Court Judge Robert Simpson on Wednesday refused to grant an injunction that would have halted the law requiring each voter to show a valid photo ID. Opponents are expected to file a prompt appeal to the state Supreme Court as the Nov. 6 presidential election looms.

The law is the subject of a furious debate over voting rights. People challenging it include some who say they'll be unable to vote.

Democrats say the law will make it harder for the elderly, minorities, poor and young adults to vote, and is designed to help Republican challenger Mitt Romney beat Democratic President Barack Obama.

Republicans who control the Legislature and the governor's office say they think it'll prevent voter fraud.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)