WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security announced today that members of the U.S. Marine Corps can use a properly deployed ‘Knife Hand’ as a valid form of identification at all federal election sites this year.  

“Marines may now present a Knife Hand in lieu of a state-issued ID or military Common Access Card as an exception to the REAL ID Act of 2005,” said Glen McFeely, a DHS spokesman. “When properly displayed, with all four fingers extended and the thumb tightly clenched, Knife Hands across the country can sufficiently authenticate Marines and enable them to cast their votes this election season.”  

A representative from the Federal Voting Assistance Program praised the decision.

“Far too many Marines have been disenfranchised over the years due to an inability to present an adequate form of ID. No Marine should lose their ability to vote due to circumstances beyond their control, such as losing their ID after a long night of celebratory drinking or having their ID renewal application rejected due to being filled out in crayon.”