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Public Opinion Survey Following the October 24, 2016, By-election in the Medicine Hat–Cardston–Warner Riding

Voter Identification

This section discusses issues related to the voter identification requirements associated with voting in the by-election.

Widespread Awareness of Identification Requirements

The large majority of respondents knew that voters need to prove their identity and address in order to vote at federal elections. Ninety-seven percent were aware that voters have to present proof of identity when they vote in a federal election. Noticeably fewer (84%), however, were aware that voters have to present proof of their address when voting.

Knowledge of Voter Identification Requirements

Knowledge of Voter Identification Requirements
Text description of "Knowledge of Voter Identification Requirements"

Awareness that proof of identity is required to vote was higher among electors under 25 years of age (100%) and students (100%). Women (88%) and 35- to 54-year-olds (91%) were more likely to know that voters must present proof of address to vote. The likelihood of being aware that proof of address is needed increased with education (from 79% among electors with high school or less to 90% among university-educated electors).

Nearly Everyone Had the Required Identification Documents and Found It Easy to Prove Their Identity and Address

Of those who voted at polling stations, almost everyone (98%) brought the required identification documents with them.

Additionally, the vast majority of those who voted at polling stations found it easy to meet the identification requirements–93% said very easy, and 6% somewhat easy. Virtually no one (1%) felt that it was difficult to do.

Identification Requirements

Identification Requirements
Text description of "Identification Requirements"

Women (96%) were more likely than men (90%) to say that it was very easy to meet the identification requirements.