What is the Voting Rights Act of 1965?

• A. A federal law prohibiting discriminatory voting practices; includes preclearance for covered jurisdictions.
• B. A federal law prohibiting discriminatory voting practices; requires preclearance for covered jurisdictions.
• C. A constitutional amendment addressing voting rights.
• D. A federal law regulating campaign finance in elections.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that this act is a federal law designed to protect voting rights by prohibiting discriminatory practices and by using a preclearance mechanism for jurisdictions with a history of discrimination. The preclearance requirement means that certain covered areas must obtain approval from the federal government before changing voting laws or procedures, to prevent changes that could suppress minority voting. This combination—prohibiting discriminatory practices and requiring preclearance for affected jurisdictions—fits the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It is not a constitutional amendment, nor is it about campaign finance.