Republican leaders in both chambers of Congress are back at it with a renewed focus on preventing noncitizen voting in federal elections. Representatives Chip Roy from Texas and Mike Lee from Utah are spearheading the reintroduction of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, commonly referred to as the SAVE Act. This legislative effort seeks to reinforce the principle that only American citizens are eligible to vote in federal elections.

The impetus behind the SAVE Act stems from claims by Republicans that current regulations are ineffective in preventing noncitizens from participating in elections, especially as many states provide driver’s licenses and other benefits to noncitizens. The proposed legislation would require states to obtain documentary proof of citizenship and identity during the voter registration process. Additionally, it would obligate states to create methods for removing noncitizens from voter rolls and empower citizens to take legal action against officials who fail to enforce these guidelines.

Last year, the House successfully passed this measure with some bipartisan support but saw it stall in the Democrat-controlled Senate, where it was not included in a spending bill. With changing political dynamics, including Republican control in the Senate and upcoming support from President-elect Trump, there is renewed enthusiasm for passing the legislation. Lawmakers like Roy stress that maintaining public confidence in elections is crucial for democracy, emphasizing the need for robust enforcement measures to protect electoral integrity from foreign influence.

Senator Lee highlighted public sentiment favoring the notion that only citizens should register and vote, pointing out that the SAVE Act would safeguard voting rights against illegal registrations and foreign interference. Meanwhile, Rep. Garbarino voiced criticism of local jurisdictions, such as New York City, for allowing noncitizen voting in local elections, reiterating the importance of limiting voting rights to American citizens alone.

The SAVE Act is not only backed by Republican sponsors but also finds support from various advocacy groups, with significant co-sponsorship in the House. The introduction of this legislation comes alongside Congress prioritizing immigration-related issues, signaling a broader agenda aimed at reinforcing immigration laws and election integrity.