The foundation of our democratic republic rests on the sanctity of free and fair elections, where every legitimate vote counts, and the voice of every American citizen is heard. However, this cornerstone of our democracy is under threat from the Left’s alarming push to allow people living illegally in the United States to vote. This push is often cloaked in the rhetoric of inclusivity and representation, but make no mistake: Allowing people living illegally in the United States to vote fundamentally distorts the democratic process.
The right to vote is a privilege and a responsibility reserved for U.S. citizens who are invested in the future of our nation and have a legal stake in its governance. The repercussions of such policies are profound and dangerous, undermining the very essence of our electoral system and eroding the trust of the American people in their government.
San Francisco and numerous other municipalities controlled by the Left have already passed ordinances permitting people living in the United States illegally to participate in local elections. Just a few weeks ago,
143 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives voted against a bill that would repeal a Washington, D.C. law passed by its progressive City Council that allows people living in the United States illegally to vote in local elections. Advocates argue that these measures ensure that all residents, regardless of immigration status, have a voice in local governance.
Allowing people living here illegally to vote undermines the principle of citizenship, devalues the rights and responsibilities that come with it, and sets a dangerous precedent. This is a clear threat to the very fabric of our democracy. When citizens perceive that their votes are being diluted by those with no legal right to participate or even be in this country, it breeds cynicism and disengagement. Trust in the electoral process is essential for a functioning democracy, but allowing people living here illegally to vote undermines this trust.
The Left’s effort to allow people living here illegally to vote also incentivizes illegal immigration. It sends a message that breaking our laws will be rewarded with the most cherished right in our democracy the right to vote. This not only exacerbates the immigration crisis created by the Biden administration’s open border policies but also places an additional burden on local and state resources as governments struggle to accommodate an influx of people living here illegally seeking to exploit these voting privileges.
To preserve the integrity of our elections, we must take decisive action against this perilous trend. This includes:
- Enacting and enforcing strict voter ID laws to ensure that only U.S. citizens can participate in our elections. These laws should require proof of citizenship at the time of voter registration and the polls. Furthermore, states should pass legislation explicitly prohibiting people living here illegally from voting at all levels of government. Federal oversight may be necessary to ensure compliance and to protect the rights of U.S. citizens.
- Enhanced enforcement mechanisms to prevent and punish voter fraud. This includes increasing resources for election officials and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cases of people living here illegally voting. A zero-tolerance policy for voter fraud, coupled with stringent penalties, will serve as a deterrent to those considering violating our election laws.
- Raising awareness about the importance of election integrity. We must educate the public on the dangers of illegal aliens voting and the steps being taken to safeguard our elections. Civic education programs should emphasize the responsibilities of citizenship and the sanctity of the voting process.
- Securing our borders to prevent illegal entry into American communities and reduce the likelihood of people living here illegally attempting to participate in our electoral process. A strong, secure border is the first line of defense in maintaining the rule of law and protecting our democratic institutions.
- Federal and state governments working together to ensure that voter rolls are accurate and up to date. This includes regularly auditing voter registration databases and removing ineligible voters, including people living here illegally, from the rolls. Last month, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose ordered an audit and the removal of people who appeared in voter rolls as it was confirmed multiple times that some were not U.S. citizens.
The right to vote is a sacred right given to U.S. citizens. It is incumbent upon us to ensure the integrity of our electoral process. The future of our republic depends on our vigilance and our unwavering commitment to protecting the right to vote for every American citizen.
Bob Unanue is a board member for the America First Policy Institute and chairman of the Hispanic Leadership Coalition. Jorge Martinez is the Hispanic outreach strategist and Spanish spokesperson for the America First Policy Institute.
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