Public Support for Voter ID Laws in the UK: How Citizens Weigh Electoral Integrity and Voter Access

Voter identification laws aim to enhance electoral integrity but may reduce turnout. This study examines British public opinion on these competing goals following the introduction of photo identification in 2023. Using an original survey and an experimental design, we find that while concerns about low voter turnout are widespread, they do not significantly influence support for photo identification. Instead, beliefs about electoral fraud and political ideology are the strongest predictors of support. This suggests that arguments about voter suppression may not effectively counter support for stricter voter identification requirements.