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kentuck

(115,388 posts)
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:40 PM 13 hrs ago

How many can locate their birth certificate in order to vote?

How many do not have a passport?

The Republicans are being pressured relentlessly to pass the "Save America" act that would require a birth certificate or a passport as identification to vote.

How many millions would that exclude.

Personally, I do not have a passport and I have no idea where my birth certificate might be?

I usually mail-in my ballot and I have never had a problem with it.

But, the "Save America" act would also outlaw mail-in ballots.

Republicans are pretending that they do not want to overturn the filibuster rule in order to pass this bill for Trump and themselves. They do all right with the system as it is. Why would they want to change it? They won the House, the Senate, and the White House in the last election. Where was the fraud?

These are dangerous games these Republicons are playing.

97 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
How many can locate their birth certificate in order to vote? (Original Post) kentuck 13 hrs ago OP
Who will be training poll workers how to authenticate birth certificates? Tim S 13 hrs ago #1
Need the birth certificate to register to vote Kaleva 8 hrs ago #61
We Have Our BCs ProfessorGAC 13 hrs ago #2
When all this nonsense started redstatebluegirl 8 hrs ago #55
My Passport Expired ProfessorGAC 8 hrs ago #56
Please get her a real id! redstatebluegirl 8 hrs ago #57
Real ID does not prove citizenship, Ms. Toad 3 hrs ago #94
I had to get a recertified one from Ohio last year underpants 13 hrs ago #3
New York State took 6 months & cost over $70 Tim S 13 hrs ago #5
Yeah I knew someone who discovered his name was misspelled underpants 13 hrs ago #17
You got off lucky with that price tonkatoy8888 12 hrs ago #35
Yes they will. Funny I haven't heard that discussed much underpants 11 hrs ago #41
That would be an issue for me. Ms. Toad 3 hrs ago #95
And those of us women who grew up with the tradition of taking husband's surname are gonna have to fight to vote Attilatheblond 13 hrs ago #4
And if you married more than once it's even more of a battle. quaint 12 hrs ago #29
Took first husband's surname because that was the general rule way back then Attilatheblond 8 hrs ago #58
I renewed my passport last year. Ritabert 13 hrs ago #6
I know where my bc is get the red out 13 hrs ago #7
Would I still have to get a passport to vote? EarthAbides 13 hrs ago #8
If you have an Enhanced ID with a flag -- not a regular REAL ID with a star -- pnwmom 10 hrs ago #47
That's what I've told my daughter. bamagal62 8 hrs ago #63
I have both. nt doc03 13 hrs ago #9
I carry both (or a copy) with me at all times. Even in California. usonian 13 hrs ago #10
Me too, copies, California, skin. quaint 12 hrs ago #30
Good luck evading the skin police. And congratulations on hitting the 5000 post milestone. usonian 12 hrs ago #32
In my safe at home, right where it should be - along with the passports. PeaceWave 13 hrs ago #11
I have the birth certificate and passport in my lockbox. MineralMan 13 hrs ago #12
California foothills, a "go bag" is part of life. usonian 12 hrs ago #34
In 2019, my dad passed away form Alzheimers. His documentation, DL, birth cert, SS card etc were long missing. My sister FSogol 13 hrs ago #13
My grandfather had three different birth dates on his official documents. hunter 4 hrs ago #91
... 2naSalit 13 hrs ago #14
OP, do you know what county and state you were born in? PeaceWave 13 hrs ago #15
My birth certificate name doesn't match the name I've used since I was 4 yrs old. pat_k 13 hrs ago #16
This is worrisome. Your case is exactly the kind that could be affected by the SAVE Act... PeaceWave 13 hrs ago #18
My sister got her first passport in the name she always used with just an affidavit from my mom. pat_k 12 hrs ago #26
pat_k..your situation is just like mine. I had to get a family lawyer and all my papers together and let a judge Deuxcents 12 hrs ago #31
Name change by usage is perfectly legal. pat_k 12 hrs ago #37
If they're gonna require this, then they should extend the hours or make it simpler. What a hassle Deuxcents 9 hrs ago #49
I had the same problem and couldn't get a enhanced license ribrepin 6 hrs ago #71
Interesting. pat_k 5 hrs ago #85
My situation is somewhat similar - I have a birth certificate that bears no resemblance to my current name TBF 5 hrs ago #87
I have an enhanced drivers license in Michigan that is usable as id. Srkdqltr 13 hrs ago #19
Anticipating this chicanery my folks got me an official copy... Hugin 13 hrs ago #20
Sounds like my then 73 year old Mom carrying around her original Central American passport... PeaceWave 12 hrs ago #25
aren't you the one who said what's the problem with showing ID? Skittles 10 hrs ago #48
Okay, first off, you're entirely too angry. Second, I once asked the question... PeaceWave 6 hrs ago #67
Anyone who is not 'entirely too angry' is perhaps not paying enough attention.... Jack Valentino 6 hrs ago #69
My advice...Know what you want to be angry about and who you want to direct that anger at. PeaceWave 6 hrs ago #70
The same to you! Jack Valentino 5 hrs ago #74
oh there is ANOTHER option Skittles 5 hrs ago #76
DAMN straight Skittles 5 hrs ago #78
and in this context, sounds a little bit like 'mansplaining'.... amirite or Jack Valentino 4 hrs ago #88
DU is my oasis from repuke garbage Skittles 4 hrs ago #89
if you are ANYTHING but VERY ANGRY right now Skittles 5 hrs ago #75
See Post 70 PeaceWave 5 hrs ago #77
PASS Skittles 5 hrs ago #79
WEAK. Jack Valentino 4 hrs ago #90
probably busy with their "$3 meal" Skittles 4 hrs ago #92
I have my birth certificate. City Lights 12 hrs ago #21
I can. ananda 12 hrs ago #22
I have mine. Faux pas 12 hrs ago #23
I do SocialDemocrat61 12 hrs ago #24
I have a birth certificate and a passport. greatauntoftriplets 12 hrs ago #27
Had to send away for a certified certificate to get my cachukis 12 hrs ago #28
Me, because I did membership for DAR last year obamanut2012 12 hrs ago #33
I can, and I have a current passport. maxsolomon 12 hrs ago #36
Write away for the birth certificate now. Mine came in just a couple of weeks, though it cost $40. Scrivener7 12 hrs ago #38
I have Rebl2 12 hrs ago #39
The bill disproportionately affects married women - women are more likely to vote Democrat, people who are trans - Doodley 11 hrs ago #40
I thought married women were more likely to vote Republican... PeaceWave 11 hrs ago #45
NOT IN THE NEXT ELECTION Skittles 5 hrs ago #82
Not black women Keepthesoulalive 3 hrs ago #96
ACTUALLY, 'married women' according to polls are MUCH more likely to vote Republican, Jack Valentino 5 hrs ago #73
Newsflash: The birth certificate your mom saved from your original birthday doesn't count. milestogo 11 hrs ago #42
When markodochartaigh 11 hrs ago #43
i think i can manage rampartd 11 hrs ago #44
I was born in Germany while my father was stationed there during the cold war LetMyPeopleVote 10 hrs ago #46
Nope, neither one Bayard 9 hrs ago #50
There would be court challenges galore. Elections are state matters. valleyrogue 9 hrs ago #51
I've had reason to peruse old census records, 1800-say 1950 bucolic_frolic 9 hrs ago #52
I had my original birth certificate vankuria 8 hrs ago #53
I have an up-to-date passport Maeve 8 hrs ago #54
I have my BC due to having to get a REAL ID. Jacson6 8 hrs ago #59
Same here. moondust 5 hrs ago #80
I can. 🙂 nt Raine 8 hrs ago #60
Mine is in a file in the office Kaleva 8 hrs ago #62
We have important papers file Tree Lady 8 hrs ago #64
I took the Girl Scout motto - "Be Prepared" - as my life plan Totally Tunsie 6 hrs ago #65
I just ordered a new one for one of my children Melon 6 hrs ago #66
I have a copy of my birth certificate, but not the original--- nor do I have a passport... Jack Valentino 6 hrs ago #68
Churches Avalon Sparks 5 hrs ago #72
I have both, but I need to renew my passport karynnj 5 hrs ago #81
Since Covid I have Roc2020 5 hrs ago #83
In anticipation Traildogbob 5 hrs ago #84
Problem is many only have the hospital issue not official document... Historic NY 5 hrs ago #86
mine is in the file cabinet right next to this chair yellowdogintexas 4 hrs ago #93
Thinking about the SAVE act ironman99 3 min ago #97

Tim S

(213 posts)
1. Who will be training poll workers how to authenticate birth certificates?
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:42 PM
13 hrs ago

Especially out of state certificates from other eras?

Kaleva

(40,337 posts)
61. Need the birth certificate to register to vote
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:44 PM
8 hrs ago

“Update: When this article was first published, the SAVE America Act included a provision that would have also required voters to show documents such as a passport or birth certificate at the polls every time they vote. The bill has since been amended in the House to replace that requirement with a directive that states regularly submit their voter rolls to the Department of Homeland Security, as well as a restrictive photo ID requirement for voting“

https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/new-save-act-bills-would-still-block-millions-americans-voting

ProfessorGAC

(76,585 posts)
2. We Have Our BCs
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:44 PM
13 hrs ago

We got copies we needed for a few things when we retired.
Marriage certificate, too.
But, I don't know how common it is for people to be in this position.
I'm guessing it's kind of rare.

redstatebluegirl

(12,826 posts)
55. When all this nonsense started
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:20 PM
8 hrs ago

I found all of my documents, my birth certificate divorce decree, marriage license and paid the money to get a passport. Mine had expired so I needed a new one.Thankfully we could afford it.

I plan to take a folder full of stuff with me in November. I dare them to keep me from voting after 52 years of voting with no issue. Someone may need to post bail if they try to keep me from voting.

ProfessorGAC

(76,585 posts)
56. My Passport Expired
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:23 PM
8 hrs ago

After having it for 45 years, I just let it go.
I retired to quit traveling, so I figure I'll never need it.
But, we've got the BC & MC, so we're covered.
My wife needs a new driver's license.
We'll take all that stuff & probably get her a real ID.

underpants

(196,285 posts)
3. I had to get a recertified one from Ohio last year
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:44 PM
13 hrs ago

For my passport. The State Department wouldn’t accept the copy of the original that I’d had for ….well…my whole life.

I think it was $22 per copy and it took two weeks.

underpants

(196,285 posts)
17. Yeah I knew someone who discovered his name was misspelled
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:02 PM
13 hrs ago

Born in NYC. None had ever noticed it before. It took him months and lots of time on the phone.

tonkatoy8888

(190 posts)
35. You got off lucky with that price
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:48 PM
12 hrs ago

I had to get a new birth certificate when I couldn't find the one I'd had my entire adult life.

Delaware, my birth state, has outsourced their vital statistics office, so I paid the private company more than $100 for the replacement. Also, I had to resubmit the form over 20 times because my signature, which I was writing with my fingernail on my cellphone, did not "match" my signature on my license/state identification card.

It was a hassle, but you have to ask, how many who may vote sporadically and who are now motivated to vote will, when faced with a fee in the neighborhood of $100 and the attendant headaches, will just say, "fuck it...maybe next time"?

underpants

(196,285 posts)
41. Yes they will. Funny I haven't heard that discussed much
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:12 PM
11 hrs ago

mostly it’s been about people (women especially) who move to another state. Letting your voting lapse would have the same effect.

Ms. Toad

(38,553 posts)
95. That would be an issue for me.
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 01:38 AM
3 hrs ago

Every time I vote, I have to remember how I wrote 36 years ago when I signed the voter registration card - because my current signature bears no resemblance to that signature. I've been challenged on it a few times - and each time they tell me that I need to re-register with my current signature.

The problem with that is that my current signature is not consistent. I couldn't write it the same way twice if I tried. So for signature matches - I have to use my decades old signature. I'd be in trouble if my driver's license signature was used for the match.

But - under the SAVE act, you'd have to prove your citizenship if you moved across the street, because that would require you to re-register. Anytime you re-register you have to prove your citizenship.

Attilatheblond

(8,794 posts)
4. And those of us women who grew up with the tradition of taking husband's surname are gonna have to fight to vote
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:44 PM
13 hrs ago

quaint

(5,005 posts)
29. And if you married more than once it's even more of a battle.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:24 PM
12 hrs ago

I have two dead husbands.

Attilatheblond

(8,794 posts)
58. Took first husband's surname because that was the general rule way back then
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:29 PM
8 hrs ago

Didn't find out it wasn't 'a law' until a few years after we married and I would not have taken his name if I had known better. Funny thing is, the surname he has used since about age 9 is NOT his birth name, but step-father's name, and he was never adopted by that man. But I guess nobody will challenge HIS voting rights because white and male.

My dear second husband suggested I not change my surname to his, so late in my life. He laughed and said, it would confuse the government and that was a bad idea so near the time of getting Social Security. Since he worked for a government agency, he had some experience with governmental SNAFUs.

But my daughter, who never liked her surname (first husband who turned into a real ass) actually did go to court to formally change her last name to my second husband's name, as she was of an age and experience to REALLY appreciate the man he was.

The dog goes by my surname and the cat goes by my late second husband's name. Records are weird things.

Ritabert

(2,364 posts)
6. I renewed my passport last year.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:48 PM
13 hrs ago

I have my birth and marriage certificates in a safe deposit box. I had to show both to get a Real ID driver's license.

get the red out

(14,031 posts)
7. I know where my bc is
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:49 PM
13 hrs ago

as well as my passport, but I only have the former because I had to order a new official copy in order to get the latter, so that I might be able to visit someone close to me that left the country for Europe last summer. Of course with all that is going on, I think that will be a while.

EarthAbides

(443 posts)
8. Would I still have to get a passport to vote?
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:49 PM
13 hrs ago

I recently got my certified copy of my birth certificate and a copy of my marriage license in order to get my driver's license renewed and to get an enhanced ID for flying. I always tell young women, "DO NOT CHANGE YOUR NAME WHEN YOU GET MARRIED!"

pnwmom

(110,252 posts)
47. If you have an Enhanced ID with a flag -- not a regular REAL ID with a star --
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:32 PM
10 hrs ago

then you do have an ID that proves citizenship, so you shouldn't need your passport.

bamagal62

(4,489 posts)
63. That's what I've told my daughter.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:51 PM
8 hrs ago

Do not change your name!
I have a passport. I also have an “official copy” of my birth certificate which is an awful
Copy and difficult to read. I guess it’s copied from microfiche. I did go through a bit of a mess once moving to New York with a GA drivers license.
Back in the 90s GA would not let you have 4 names on the drivers license. So, they dropped my maiden name without asking me which one to drop. It was a nightmare because it didn’t match my other documents. I finally got it sorted out. But, it was not fun. This is going to be a cluster of epic proportions if this thing passes.

usonian

(25,008 posts)
10. I carry both (or a copy) with me at all times. Even in California.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:53 PM
13 hrs ago

I have Mediterranean skin color.

The federal government cannot manage nor interfere in state voting. Just ask the Supreme Court.



usonian

(25,008 posts)
32. Good luck evading the skin police. And congratulations on hitting the 5000 post milestone.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:37 PM
12 hrs ago
STAY AWAY FROM HOME DEPOT!!!!

MineralMan

(151,155 posts)
12. I have the birth certificate and passport in my lockbox.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:56 PM
13 hrs ago

Marriage certificate, DD Form 214, Real ID, MN Fishing license, and even my military vaccination records from the late 60s. They are all where I can get them, and safely in a fire resistant metal box. My wife's stuff is in there, too. I have other records, as well, but not as well protected. I also have scans of everything stored on a USB thumb drive. Other docs like a copy of my house deed, all vehicle ownership papers, insurance policies, and other docs are also stored for fast access.

We shouldn't have to have that stuff. But, I have it anyhow. I've used every one of those things at one point or another in my lifetime.

usonian

(25,008 posts)
34. California foothills, a "go bag" is part of life.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:43 PM
12 hrs ago
https://www.readyforwildfire.org/

https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire/emergency-supply-kit


Assembling your wildfire-ready kit

Get your emergency supply kit ready well before any wildfire or disaster. Make sure it’s accessible for quick evacuation and prepare for the possibility of being away from home for a while.

Your ‘Go Bag’ should be easy to carry and access. Use backpacks to store items like essentials and personal documents. For food and water, consider a wheeled tub or chest for easier transport. Keep your bag light enough for comfortable lifting into your vehicle.


Emergency kit
Your ‘Go Bag’ checklist

Ensure your wildfire ‘Go Bag’ includes:

A 3-day supply of non-perishable food & 3 gallons of water per person
A map with at least 2 evacuation routes
Necessary prescriptions or medications
A change of clothes & extra eyeglasses/contact lenses
Extra car keys, credit cards, cash, or traveler’s checks
A first aid kit & sanitation supplies
A flashlight & battery-powered radio with extra batteries
Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
Pet food & water

Always have sturdy shoes and a flashlight near your bed, ready for sudden night evacuations.


Additional items if time allows

If time allows, consider adding:

Valuables that are easy to carry
Family photos and irreplaceable items
Personal computer data on hard drives and disks
Chargers for cell phones and laptops

For more information on emergency supplies, visit https://www.ready.gov
Note: DHS website.


FSogol

(47,603 posts)
13. In 2019, my dad passed away form Alzheimers. His documentation, DL, birth cert, SS card etc were long missing. My sister
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:56 PM
13 hrs ago

started a long process to get copies. I promised I wouldn't leave that mess to my kids to sort out. I applied for a replacement birth certificate. Then used the new cert and an expired passport to get a replacement SS card. Then I renewed my passport. Everything was done online and via the mail. I mailed in the forms and documents, they mailed everything back. It took a weeks/months, but all ids now in order. I recommend everyone do the same.

hunter

(40,651 posts)
91. My grandfather had three different birth dates on his official documents.
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 12:22 AM
4 hrs ago

One for the Army, one for Social Security and taxes, and one for his California drivers license.

Same day and month, different years.

He also went by a few different first names -- one for family, one for the Army, and one professionally, using inconsistent birth dates.

His original birth certificate, if he ever had one, was lost.

He joined the Army with an affidavit of birth.

It was very Wild West. You judged a man by his character. ( And the color of his skin, and his accent, and maybe his religion too. His religion was "Not Mormon." )

My dad was executor of my grandfather's estate and had a heck of a time getting that all sorted out.

When I was young I rarely carried any identification with me until I met my wife who considered that an unacceptable habit.

I recently had to get a new birth certificate for myself from some private company when I discovered the official stamped certificate I got to marry my wife was no longer considered acceptable for identification purposes.

This modern world kind of sucks.

All this "papers please" shit will be used to disenfranchise people. Or worse.


PeaceWave

(3,280 posts)
15. OP, do you know what county and state you were born in?
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 03:57 PM
13 hrs ago

If so, contact the Clerk Recorder office in that county. They'll walk you through the process of getting an authorized certified copy of your birth certificate.

pat_k

(13,308 posts)
16. My birth certificate name doesn't match the name I've used since I was 4 yrs old.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:00 PM
13 hrs ago

My step-father never formally adopted my sister and I, but we used his name for everything, including the SS cards my mom signed us up for.

I have to get a legal name change from my birth name to the name I've used for more than 60 years.

PeaceWave

(3,280 posts)
18. This is worrisome. Your case is exactly the kind that could be affected by the SAVE Act...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:05 PM
13 hrs ago

Republicans act like they aren't aware of the fact that computers weren't always around and procedures weren't always quite as formalized as they now are.

pat_k

(13,308 posts)
26. My sister got her first passport in the name she always used with just an affidavit from my mom.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:18 PM
12 hrs ago

When she got married, her marriage certificate had the birth certificate name as the maiden name, even though she had no other identification in that name.

She has since divorced, but somehow that marriage certificate has worked to connect birth cert name to a hyphenated last name (stepfather's-husband's). I've never needed a passport, although I almost needed to travel to Rwanda when my sister was injured there. The embassy guy helping out in the emergency advised that I get a passport in my birth cert name and just ignore all other ID. I suppose I could do that for registering to vote, but it just feels like something would certainly go wrong having a passport in a name that has effectively not existed since 1964, and all other ID in a different name that has existed since 1964.

Deuxcents

(26,667 posts)
31. pat_k..your situation is just like mine. I had to get a family lawyer and all my papers together and let a judge
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:29 PM
12 hrs ago

Finally, my birth name, and all information is in the judgement and this cost me, as you can imagine but I’m glad I did it about 9 years ago. I have the original with my Will and Trust and a copy in my glove box in case I’m ever in need of it on the road. I’m a post war baby and back then, all this legal stuff was not even a thought.

pat_k

(13,308 posts)
37. Name change by usage is perfectly legal.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:55 PM
12 hrs ago

... which is why, until recently, just needing an affidavit has long been sufficient for almost all purposes.

Consistently using a new name for all personal and business matters creates a "common law" right to that name, provided it is not for fraudulent purposes.While legal, it is not recognized by all agencies, making it difficult to update official documents like passports.


I actually went through the hassle of a name change in NJ, but screwed up the last step.

There, you had to publish a public notice when you applied, another one when the court certified the application + proof of notice. When I appeared in court, I got what I believed was the order I was seeking. The DMV treated it as such and issued a license (I needed the order to deal with post-9/11 rules changes). I learned that it was not actually a final order when I sent it off to get birth cert reissued.

It turned out, I was supposed to go through yet ANOTHER round of public notice publication, and THEN would get a final order. It was too late to do it and I would have had to start all over (with another round of filing fees, publication fees, etc) I had gotten my license and was pretty broke. I said screw it. I'll deal with it when the need arises again.

Here in Washington state, the name change process is simpler, but the courts have been overwhelmed with people trying to straighten out name mismatches to get Real ID. They only do name changes a couple days a week. You show up with the petition and cash fee and wait around to be heard, which can take all day. I have a little solo dog walking business these days. Of course the days the court does name changes are my busiest days. It is tough to cancel everything so I keep putting it off.

But, I do have to deal with it And soon.

Deuxcents

(26,667 posts)
49. If they're gonna require this, then they should extend the hours or make it simpler. What a hassle
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:48 PM
9 hrs ago

ribrepin

(1,899 posts)
71. I had the same problem and couldn't get a enhanced license
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:06 PM
6 hrs ago

My stepfather was dead and couldn't adopt me as a adult. The license bureau suggested I get a passport. I did with no problem. They use Social Security as verification. I applied for my card for my Social Security card under my stepfather's name. I don't remember if I had to show my birth certificate when I applied - it was 1967.

pat_k

(13,308 posts)
85. Interesting.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:44 PM
5 hrs ago

I've never needed a passport, although I almost needed one to travel to Rwanda when my sister was injured there. The embassy guy helping out in the emergency advised that I get a passport in my birth cert name and just ignore all other ID. He didn't mention anything about SS verification (which would be in my step-father's name). I didn't end up needing to go, so didn't try to get the passport

I think the simplest for me at this point will be getting a court order to change birth name to the one I've always used. Here in WA the process is relatively simple, but the courts have been overwhelmed with people trying to straighten out name mismatches to get Real ID. They only do name changes a couple days a week. You show up with the petition and cash fee and wait around to be heard, which can take all day. You leave with an order, assuming it is granted. I have a little solo dog walking business these days. Of course the days the court does name changes are my busiest days. It is tough to cancel everything so I keep putting it off.

But, I do have to deal with it And soon.

TBF

(36,516 posts)
87. My situation is somewhat similar - I have a birth certificate that bears no resemblance to my current name
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:51 PM
5 hrs ago

No one ever called me by my given name. As a young adult I decided to just legally change my name to the nickname I had always used, along with a slight change of my middle name so they sounded good together. Thankfully I kept a copy of that order. Then my last named changed twice due to marriage.

I have both social security card and updated passport, thankfully - and all documentation going back to the original birth certificate. It all makes sense. Except that I will have to explain it to some moron in the clerk's office here in Texas, which I'm not looking forward to.

Hugin

(37,828 posts)
20. Anticipating this chicanery my folks got me an official copy...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:06 PM
13 hrs ago

Fifty years ago. Even though it has an embossed seal on it. It looks so different from the modern documents it's still questioned constantly.

PeaceWave

(3,280 posts)
25. Sounds like my then 73 year old Mom carrying around her original Central American passport...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:16 PM
12 hrs ago

with her picture from when she was 19 years old. Needless to say she was stopped upon re-entering the U.S. after a trip to Mexico. An expert had to be brought in to verify her documentation. He told her he hadn't seen one like it in decades. Thankfully, not long after, Mom finally caved - after 54 years in the United States - and decided to become an American citizen.

Skittles

(171,463 posts)
48. aren't you the one who said what's the problem with showing ID?
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:50 PM
10 hrs ago

that's the simplistic bullshit repukes make it out to be, but it's way, way more than "showing ID:"

the greedy old pig party is doing everything they can to suppress voting because they know they'd be crushed in a fair election

PeaceWave

(3,280 posts)
67. Okay, first off, you're entirely too angry. Second, I once asked the question...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 10:47 PM
6 hrs ago

"How does anyone function in the U.S. without an ID?" That is not by any means the same as asking "What's the problem with showing an ID?"

So, again, slow your angry roll and stop intimating that anyone should be lumped in with "the greedy old pig party." The world is a messed up enough place without folks going around angry at everyone because of something they think they saw someone say on the internet a while back.

PeaceWave

(3,280 posts)
70. My advice...Know what you want to be angry about and who you want to direct that anger at.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:05 PM
6 hrs ago

Jack Valentino

(4,936 posts)
88. and in this context, sounds a little bit like 'mansplaining'.... amirite or
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 12:17 AM
4 hrs ago

amirite??

(I've been trying to avoid that lately myself, as a man)





Skittles

(171,463 posts)
75. if you are ANYTHING but VERY ANGRY right now
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:10 PM
5 hrs ago

you're either NOT PAYING ATTENTION or you're part of a CULT

cachukis

(3,901 posts)
28. Had to send away for a certified certificate to get my
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:23 PM
12 hrs ago

teaching certificate. Needed it for license upgrade.
A chore to get it. Cannot imagine dealing with my wife getting all the papers together to vote with name changes.

obamanut2012

(29,334 posts)
33. Me, because I did membership for DAR last year
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:39 PM
12 hrs ago

And I needed to get copies of things I had lost. I've had a passport for 35 years, but my wife didn't get one until I made her last year right after the election.

maxsolomon

(38,624 posts)
36. I can, and I have a current passport.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:50 PM
12 hrs ago

Also, the SAVE Act is not getting past the Filibuster, and the Repukes aren't going to exempt this bill. They want the Filibuster for the next time they're in the minority. Which, God willing, is very soon.

Scrivener7

(59,381 posts)
38. Write away for the birth certificate now. Mine came in just a couple of weeks, though it cost $40.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:01 PM
12 hrs ago

Rebl2

(17,665 posts)
39. I have
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:04 PM
12 hrs ago

my birth certificate and marriage license in my lock box at my bank. Some years ago our idiotic governor at the time made everyone prove they lived in this country to renew our driver’s license. So lucky me, I still live in the state I was born in and either paid nothing or minimal fee for a copy with a raised seal. I also have raised seal on marriage certificate. My husband on the hand had to jump through hoops to get his from the state where he was born. I think this was in the early 2000’s. Older people in their 70’s I believe, didn’t have to do anything. He lasted one term, the idiot. His father worked as attorney general for George W. The one who covered statutes with drapes— Ashcroft.

Doodley

(11,875 posts)
40. The bill disproportionately affects married women - women are more likely to vote Democrat, people who are trans -
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:09 PM
11 hrs ago

- more likely to vote democrat, poorer people without a passport or driver's licence - more likely to vote Democrat. This is how Republicans can win even if they are less popular.

Jack Valentino

(4,936 posts)
73. ACTUALLY, 'married women' according to polls are MUCH more likely to vote Republican,
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:09 PM
5 hrs ago

while unmarried women are much more likely to vote Democratic---


what they are attempting to pass might hurt their own party vote
MORE than the Democratic vote---

(with the caveat that some married Democratic women voters
might be economically less able to jump through all the hoops
which they are trying to create, for a "problem" which really
does not even EXIST, statistically....
maybe THAT is what they are counting on, but the data seems to weigh against them, IMHO)




In any case, it appears they won't be able to pass the bill,
and I think EVERYONE should be entitled to their vote,
even if they disagree with my opinions.....



milestogo

(23,036 posts)
42. Newsflash: The birth certificate your mom saved from your original birthday doesn't count.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:12 PM
11 hrs ago

I only know this because I started a job a few years ago I brought in the one mom saved, complete with my inky footprints. I was told that this one doesn't count. Its kind of like a souvenir you get for going through labor.

The only birth certificate that COUNTS AS IDENTIFICATION is the official, notarized copy you get from the County Office in the county where you were born. You pay for the certificate, you pay for shipping, and unless you pay for overnight shipping- you wait.

So I have mine. Funny thing is I used the mommy birth certificate until 5 years ago.

If you are internet savvy and can afford to pay for it, its not that big of a deal. But it does require some effort, funds, and time.

markodochartaigh

(5,486 posts)
43. When
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:22 PM
11 hrs ago

Trump was elected the first time I got a certified copy of my birth certificate so I could get a new passport after my old one had been expired for years.
In an odd circumstance for which I'm unable to find any explanation I still know where they are, even after three hurricanes.

My sister still has our Grandmother's baptismal record. It's not common now, but Irish names have a masculine and a feminine form. I can't imagine these days having to try to explain that although Ó Dochartaigh and Ní Dhochartaigh may be spelled differently they are the same surname.

LetMyPeopleVote

(179,186 posts)
46. I was born in Germany while my father was stationed there during the cold war
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:14 PM
10 hrs ago

I had to get a consular record of birth to get my passport. That was fun

Bayard

(29,510 posts)
50. Nope, neither one
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:55 PM
9 hrs ago

I think my birth certificate is buried in the garage somewhere, but its useless. I legally changed my first name, (thanks for that clunker, Mom,) years ago. Married twice, changed last name the first time. Now, I use my maiden name, hyphenated with my husband's. Wonder how they'll handle that, since plenty of woman have done the same?

Never had a passport.

valleyrogue

(2,691 posts)
51. There would be court challenges galore. Elections are state matters.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:56 PM
9 hrs ago

This will never pass.

bucolic_frolic

(54,952 posts)
52. I've had reason to peruse old census records, 1800-say 1950
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:02 PM
9 hrs ago

Prior to about 1940, people's ages as reported, which is to say their birth year, varied greatly. They can't all be trying to appear younger. It's likely they never saw a birth certificate in their life. Or it was written in the family bible and only seen a few times. Democracy got along fine on that accuracy. This GOP crap is over the top.

vankuria

(966 posts)
53. I had my original birth certificate
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:08 PM
8 hrs ago

And it was in decent shape considering I’m 70 yrs old. I needed it to get my new license however I was told by the DMV it was invalid because it didn’t have the raised seal on it. Luckily I was only 40 miles from the county I was born in so I didn’t have a problem getting a new one. I needed my marriage license too, to show my name change through marriage however I couldn’t find it and thought I could use my divorce papers to show my name change but was told I had to show my marriage license. A lot of busy work for something I’ve been doing for decades; renewing my license and voting. I’m fortunate I drive and wasn’t too far from where I was born but this is and will be a nightmare for anyone with a name change from their original birth certificate. I would recommend to any woman contemplating marriage not to change their last name.

Maeve

(43,454 posts)
54. I have an up-to-date passport
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:19 PM
8 hrs ago

Ran around back in 2003 to get birth certificates for Hubby and me to get passports, which were renewed in 2023, so we're good. But we are middle-class, like to travel and can afford the expenses of doing that. Many can't. It's another form of poll tax

Jacson6

(1,960 posts)
59. I have my BC due to having to get a REAL ID.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:30 PM
8 hrs ago

I have plenty of elderly neighbors that don't even know where they can get their certified BC. This is a trap so that the elderly and the poor can no longer vote.

moondust

(21,279 posts)
80. Same here.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:22 PM
5 hrs ago

I had to contact the county recorder where I was born and pay a fee to have the recorder send me an official copy.

If a BC will be required to vote, will a REAL ID be accepted instead since an official BC was required to obtain it? I haven't heard anything about that.

Tree Lady

(13,256 posts)
64. We have important papers file
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:55 PM
8 hrs ago

It's in that, but I also have passport.

Its so obvious what they are doing and if congress votes for that, they should all go to prison.

Totally Tunsie

(11,818 posts)
65. I took the Girl Scout motto - "Be Prepared" - as my life plan
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 10:11 PM
6 hrs ago

and carry my current passport card as well as my short form birth certificate in my wallet. As my back-up, I also carry a booklet of the U.S. Constitution. I feel prepared.

Melon

(1,484 posts)
66. I just ordered a new one for one of my children
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 10:19 PM
6 hrs ago

Because I couldn’t find it and I want them to vote. I believe cost was $25 plus postage. It’s not immediate though. It will be a few weeks. You can use a service to rush but it doubled the total price.

Jack Valentino

(4,936 posts)
68. I have a copy of my birth certificate, but not the original--- nor do I have a passport...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 10:49 PM
6 hrs ago

I bought a new copy of my birth certificate many years ago,
can't remember why I thought I needed it, now...

but I'm a male, and thus never changed my name through marriage---

However, even so, having to report to the city to show my documentation
would be a personal hardship to me, since my car is still dead in the driveway---

and if they amended the original bill to outlaw no-reason mail-in balloting
(which as I understand it, they still have not done yet in the Senate),
well, that would invoke further hardship since I have gotten used to mail-in voting
in Michigan--- a law which we passed by a popular vote initiative!---

(AND, I think if they managed to pass it, it should JUSTLY be
struck down by the Supreme Court---

since control over elections is delegated to state governments
by the Constitution, and not to the Federal government---

but we can't count on the Republican nominees to this court
to follow the US Constitution now, can we ???)




Avalon Sparks

(2,750 posts)
72. Churches
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:07 PM
5 hrs ago

If it passes, Churches especially Evangelical, are going to have all kinds of messaging and initiatives to help their married women who changed their last name. Efforts and funding campaigns to assist them with getting copies of their birth certificates, marriage licenses and even passports.

What are the Dems going to do toward the same efforts?

karynnj

(60,933 posts)
81. I have both, but I need to renew my passport
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:26 PM
5 hrs ago

It is easy to renew a passport as long as it is not more than 5 years out of date.

Roc2020

(1,778 posts)
83. Since Covid I have
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:29 PM
5 hrs ago

made sure my passport and other top notch identification documents current and locked away in a safe. The world is too unstable to not have the strongest forms of identification ready at will.

Traildogbob

(12,995 posts)
84. In anticipation
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:31 PM
5 hrs ago

I contacted the NC County Register of Deeds office I was borne in. Took about a week to get two raised stamp copies. $24. But everywhere passports here were sold have all shut down. WCU can do it in a special office there and it’s $200. With a three month Wait for office visit, mandated.
This is not a hoop many MAGA’s can or are willing to jump through. Or can afford under trumps low prices of stuff, and rising daily.
FUCK GQP. Had a draft number like most in my generation, no right to vote. I still joined the Navy but no right to vote, and was expected to die for the Country and Nixon. Fuck Trump, steal that right to protect a child raper. My veteran pride for this place is Vanishing. Now they want troops to die again, and take their votes away. To protect the child raper and all his band of thieves.

Historic NY

(39,979 posts)
86. Problem is many only have the hospital issue not official document...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 11:49 PM
5 hrs ago

unless you needed it for Social Security or a Passport many have been stashed away

yellowdogintexas

(23,686 posts)
93. mine is in the file cabinet right next to this chair
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 12:28 AM
4 hrs ago

I also have extra copies of Mr YD and our daughter

I need to renew my passport, but I do have one

ironman99

(156 posts)
97. Thinking about the SAVE act
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 05:03 AM
3 min ago

The brilliant scientists of the GOPOT really did not think this out.

All anyone who is born in the US gets at birth is a birth certificate. Nowhere on that certificate does it say that you are a citizen. It is a given from the 14th Amendment. We don't get a document from the federal government saying we are a citizen.

The GOPOT putting this codswallop together would like to get rid of the 14th Amendment as well. But if they do that here is what happens:

No passports as a birth certificate does not imply citizenship
No "Real ID" as a birth certificate does not imply citizenship
The only people with proof of citizenship are those immigrants who passed the citizenship test and received a certificate signed by a judge or other officiant at their swearing in ceremony.

Requiring passports, "Real ID" or birth certificates will not allow you to vote as the birth certificate does not imply citizenship without the 14th Amendment which the GOPOT wants to get rid of.

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