Federal authorities in South Dakota have been asked to investigate reports that Indian voters were turned away from the polls during a recent election.

The Four Directions Committee says some Indian voters were told they couldn't cast a ballot without photo identification, as required by state law. But the group says poll workers failed to offer Indian voters an affidavit they could sign in lieu of showing an ID.

Sen. Tom Daschle (D-South Dakota) asked the South Dakota Secretary of State Chris Nelson to investigate the claims. Nelson said he lacks authority to do so, so he referred the request to U.S. Attorney Jim McMahon.

Get the Story:
Nelson refers Daschle concerns to authorities (The Rapid City Journal 6/29)

Read the Letter:
Sen. Daschle to Chris Nelson (June 14, 2004)

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