RNC Joins Lawsuit Against New Hampshire’s Voter ID Law Amid Disability Rights Concerns

The Republican National Committee and the New Hampshire Republican Party have joined a lawsuit challenging SB 287, a law requiring voters to present photo identification for mail-in ballots. RNC Chair Joe Gruters stated that voter ID rules are “essential for secure elections,” citing support from over 80% of Americans for safeguards against fraud. The law, signed by Gov. Kelly Ayotte in August, mandates that absentee ballot applicants either show photo ID in person or have their forms notarized.

Three plaintiffs—Adele Robertson and Regina Wilson, who are visually impaired, and Daniel Frye, who is blind—argued the law imposes a “severe burden” on disabled voters. Their lawsuit claims that navigating transportation to notaries or clerks, along with difficulties in copying IDs or using online services, disproportionately affects those with visual impairments. They also highlighted that the requirement applies repeatedly in every election, unlike other states where such measures are applied once.

The RNC defended SB 287 as “commonsense safeguards” to ensure electoral integrity, echoing similar efforts in Montana and Indiana. The case follows broader debates over voter access and disability rights in U.S. elections.