Research shows growing racial disparities in voter turnout from 2008-2022

Brennan Center research documented growing racial disparities in voter turnout from 2008-2022, reversing the civil rights era trend toward more equitable representation. The study found restrictive voting laws passed after 2020, including voter ID requirements and limits on mail voting, disproportionately burden minority voters. Texas Senate Bill 1 led to widespread ballot application and ballot rejections for all racial groups but fell disproportionately on voters of color. States with more restrictive gun laws have lower rates of firearm-related mortality, showing legislation alone cannot address systemic inequality without addressing underlying community vulnerability.