Non-Citizen Voting in Washington, DC: A Blow to American Democracy

The Republican-controlled House Administration Committee is demanding answers from Washington, D.C., officials about the implementation of a new law that permits non-citizens to vote in local elections, raising concerns about the potential for voter fraud and undermining the principles of American democracy.

Washington, D.C. – The Republican-controlled House Administration Committee has fired off a letter to Washington, D.C., election officials, expressing deep concern over the implementation of a controversial law allowing non-citizens to vote in local elections.

Led by Chairman Bryan Steil (R-WI), the committee has oversight over election conduct and is investigating the potential for voter fraud and abuse under the Local Resident Voting Rights Act, passed by the D.C. Council in 2022.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Steil condemned the law as a violation of fundamental American principles: "American elections are for American citizens only. Every American deserves to have confidence in their elections, and it does not instill confidence when we see our nation's capital encourage non-citizen voting in local elections."

He added, "I'm working to hold the D.C. Board of Elections accountable and stop non-citizen voting."

Steil's letter to the D.C. Board of Elections highlights his concern that the law is being implemented in a manner that actively encourages non-citizen voting.

He points to a virtual town hall hosted by Board staff and a postcard mailing campaign urging non-citizens to register to vote.

The committee has posed a series of questions to the Board, including:

- How will election workers distinguish between qualified voters and non-voters?

- Will foreign nationals representing their capitals as embassy personnel be allowed to vote?

- Why does the non-citizen registration form allegedly omit the requirement that applicants not be incarcerated for felony convictions?

- What legal guidance has the Board relied upon to implement the Local Resident Voting Rights Act?

Steil's concerns echo those expressed by other Republican lawmakers and legal experts. In June, a New York judge ruled that a similar law in New York City was unconstitutional, violating the state's constitution.

A bill introduced by Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) would require proof of citizenship in all municipal elections in D.C., but it remains unclear whether it will garner enough support to pass.

Supporters of the Local Resident Voting Rights Act argue that it extends representation and participatory democracy to long-time residents who contribute to the city's economy and social fabric.

Councilmember Robert White, who introduced the bill, said, "The passage of this legislation is a victory for equity and fairness...It will allow tens of thousands of our fellow residents to participate fully in our democracy."

The issue of non-citizen voting is expected to fuel ongoing debate as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Republicans have vowed to roll back such measures, while Democrats argue they promote inclusivity and fairness.

The outcome of the House investigation and the fate of the Local Resident Voting Rights Act will have significant implications for the future of voting rights in the United States.