Federal courthouse in Madison (File photo: WRN)
A federal trial began Monday morning in a lawsuit challenging several changes to Wisconsin election laws.
The lawsuit, brought by liberal advocacy groups that include One Wisconsin Institute and Citizen Action of Wisconsin, focuses heavily on a 2011 state law that requires voters to show a government-issued photo ID when obtaining a ballot. It also targets other changes made by Republicans over the past five years, such as limits on early voting hours.
The groups contend the series of legislative efforts were intended to make it harder for minorities to vote. Attorneys for the state have countered that they are reasonable steps meant to protect the integrity of the ballot box in Wisconsin.
A federal judge heard opening arguments in the case this morning. The trial is expected to last through next week.