A federal voting trial in Winston-Salem is winding down after three weeks of testimony. The judge has asked for some additional information in the case, which involves changes to the state's voting laws approved two years ago.
There's still a little more evidence left to be presented, then both sides will make their closing arguments in the closely watched election law trial.
Judge Thomas Schroeder asked both sides to keep their closing arguments to two hours each if possible in the hopes of wrapping up the case today, but added he wouldn't end the trial until both sides are heard.
At issue is whether the Republican lawmakers intentionally targeted voting behaviors largely used by people who tend to vote for Democrats, including young and minority voters.
Plaintiffs – including the NAACP and the U.S. Department of Justice – say that by reducing early voting, eliminating same-day registration and making other similar changes, the legislature was trying to make it harder for blacks to vote.
Attorneys for the state presented evidence that minority voting increased in 2014, when some of the changes of the law were already in place. They argue the law applies to all North Carolina voters equally and wasn't meant to disenfranchise any particular groups.
Judge Schroeder gave both sides a glimpse of what he wants to hear today. That includes arguments on the difference between a voting burden and an inconvenience, and how race correlates with party affiliation.
He's not expected to make an immediate ruling in the case.
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