Ballot Talks: Examining the past and present of the Voting Rights Act

Guest: Jim Rutenberg, Michael Tomsic

50 years ago today, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Voting Rights Act of 1965 in an effort to end racially discriminatory practices at the polls. Today, we examine the history of voting rights since the act was passed, and look at some of the voter regulations that have emerged since the US Supreme Court struck down provisions of the act two years ago. We’re joined by reporter JIM RUTENBERG, who recently authored the New York Times Magazine cover story, “A Dream Undone: Inside the 50-year campaign to roll back the Voting Rights Act.” But first, we’ll get an update on the trial in North Carolina over recent voting regulations when we talk with MICHAEL TOMSIC, reporter for WFAE in Charlotte.