Harry Enten, chief data analyst for CNN, stated that a majority of Americans favor requiring photo identification to vote. “Americans agree with Nicki Minaj when it comes to voter id,” Enten explained, citing Pew Research data showing 83% of Americans support photo voter ID requirements. This includes over 70% of Democrats and Republicans, as well as at least 75% of voters across racial groups—White, Black, and Latino populations.
“It’s not controversial,” he added.
The comment aligns with a viral X post by Nicki Minaj that garnered over 50 million views, in which she questioned what “sensible” nation would debate voter ID requirements: “What sensible forward thinking cutting edge leading nation is having a DEBATE on whether or not there should be VOTER ID?!?!!!! Like?!?!? They’re actually fighting NOT to have ppl present ID while voting for your leaders!!!!! Do you get it?!?!!!! Do you get it now?!?!!!”
Enten also addressed Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s (D-NY) claim that requiring photo IDs at polling places is racist.
Nicki Minaj, born in Trinidad and Tobago and not a U.S. citizen, recently received one of President Donald Trump’s $1 million Gold Cards intended to expedite visa processes—though the program is designed as a “memento” with no impact on citizenship applications.
The issue remains prominent as Republicans seek to include the SAVE Act in a federal funding package backed by the president, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship for voting in federal elections.
