A federal judge has ruled against President Trump’s request to add a documentary proof of citizenship requirement to the federal voter registration form. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly determined the directive was an unconstitutional violation of the separation of powers, siding with Democratic and civil rights groups. The ruling prevents the U.S. Election Assistance Commission from adding the requirement, which has been attempted by Republicans but faced legal challenges. The lawsuit will continue to address other aspects of Trump’s executive order, including the requirement that all mailed ballots be received by Election Day.
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The Trump administration, through the Department of Justice, has initiated lawsuits against Maine and Oregon, claiming they failed to provide necessary voter registration information and adhere to federal laws. These lawsuits, filed under the National Voter Registration Act, the Help America Vote Act, and the Civil Rights Act, allege the states’ refusal to produce electronic voter registration lists and details regarding voter list maintenance procedures. Officials in both states have criticized the actions, accusing the administration of using federal power to intimidate them and undermine elections. The DOJ argues the information is crucial to ensure election integrity and prevent fraudulent voting in federal elections.
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The House passed the “SAVE” Act, a restrictive voting bill requiring in-person proof of citizenship for voter registration, a measure projected to disenfranchise millions, particularly women, minorities, and rural residents. The bill’s passage was along party lines, with four Democrats joining Republicans in support. While framed as combating non-citizen voting, critics argue it disproportionately impacts eligible voters lacking readily available citizenship documentation. The bill’s future remains uncertain, facing an uphill battle in the Senate where a filibuster is anticipated.
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John Q. Hosedrinker