US House approves bill mandating citizenship proof for midterm voters

House approves citizenship proof for voters

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives on Thursday passed legislation requiring proof of US citizenship for voters in the November midterm elections. Democrats opposed the measure, arguing it would place an undue burden on citizens and consolidate electoral influence in the hands of President Donald Trump.

According to Reuters, the lawmakers voted 218-213 to approve the SAVE America Act, with only one Democrat joining Republicans in support. Following the House vote, the bill has been sent to the Republican-led Senate.

The legislation is the latest iteration of election-related proposals first highlighted during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, driven by his claims that a large number of undocumented individuals were casting votes in federal elections.

Also reported by Reuters, the bill would require proof of citizenship when registering to vote in the midterms and impose criminal penalties on election officials who register individuals without the necessary documentation. Additionally, voters would need a photo ID to cast ballots in person or via mail in future federal elections.

Republicans defended the measure, citing polls including a Pew Research Center survey showing that 83% of voters, including 71% of Democrats, support photo ID requirements. House Speaker Mike Johnson described it as “common sense legislation to just ensure that American citizens decide American elections.”

Critics have voiced concerns over the potential impact on voter access. Reuters quoted the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law, which warned that the SAVE America Act could disenfranchise millions of US citizens who lack immediate access to passports, birth certificates, and other documents proving citizenship.

“The SAVE America Act is part of a comprehensive Republican strategy to cement power this year. Speaker Johnson wants to make it harder for Americans to vote, easier for Washington Republicans to control how elections are run,” said Representative Joe Morelle, the top Democrat on the House committee overseeing elections.