Undoubtedly, the right of suffrage is a fundamental in a free and democratic society. Especially since the right to exercise the franchise in a free and unimpaired manner is preservative of other basic civil and political rights, any alleged infringement of the right of citizens to vote must be carefully and meticulously scrutinized.

Earl Warren (1891-1974) American jurist and politician; Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (1953-69)

Reynolds v. Sims, 377 U.S. 533, 561-562 (1964) [majority opinion]
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