The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a proof-of-citizenship requirement for voter registration, a proposal that has been a focal point for Republicans. Research indicates that instances of noncitizens illegally registering and voting in federal elections are extremely rare. Despite the bill's potential passage in the GOP-controlled House, it is unlikely to progress in the Democratic-led Senate. The Biden administration strongly opposes the legislation, citing existing safeguards to verify voter eligibility and enforce laws against noncitizens attempting to vote.
Republicans view the vote as an opportunity to highlight border and election security issues in the lead-up to the 2024 elections. They argue that Democratic opposition to the bill supports former President Donald Trump's claims that Democrats are facilitating illegal voting by migrants. It is important to note that noncitizens are prohibited from voting in federal and most state elections.
The proposed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act aims to remove noncitizens from state voter rolls and require new applicants to provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Supporters of the bill point to instances where noncitizens have successfully registered and voted, albeit infrequently. States have varying mechanisms to detect and address such occurrences.
While some Republican officials have highlighted isolated cases of noncitizen voting, several secretaries of state have indicated that it is not a significant issue in their states. Critics argue that the legislation could disenfranchise millions of American citizens who may face challenges in providing documentary proof of citizenship.
The House vote coincides with the Republican National Committee's emphasis on border security and opposition to granting voting rights to undocumented migrants. These issues are expected to feature prominently at the upcoming Republican National Convention, where Trump is slated to accept the party's nomination for president.
