Peoria Standard

Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) penned an op-ed that ran in the Bloomington Pantagraph highlighting the need for Congress to enact the SAVE Act. This legislation, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote, would require proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.

"Like many Americans, my ancestors immigrated to the United States to forge a better life for themselves and their families," LaHood wrote. "They worked hard and followed the rules to legally immigrate to this country and become citizens."

LaHood emphasized the importance of voting rights as fundamental to American democracy: "One of the most important rights afforded to American citizens is the right to vote. The right to vote is inherent to our ability to choose our leaders and put a check on those in power."

He criticized current border policies: "Unfortunately, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ reckless open border policies have allowed millions of illegal immigrants to enter our country." LaHood argued that these policies have endangered communities and burdened taxpayers, especially in Illinois under Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Constituents from LaHood's 16th Congressional District have raised concerns about election integrity amid ongoing issues at the southern border. To address these concerns, he supported the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

"The SAVE Act is a commonsense policy that would strengthen our current election laws by requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections," he stated. According to LaHood, some states only require individuals registering for federal elections to check a box claiming they are citizens, with some even allowing illegal immigrants to vote in local elections.

The SAVE Act seeks amendments in voter registration processes by mandating states obtain proof of citizenship regardless of where individuals register. It also proposes alternative routes for U.S. citizens without documentary proof and directs states towards accurate voter roll updates using databases from Homeland Security and Social Security Administration.

"Congress must continue to work to secure our elections," LaHood concluded, urging prioritization of passing the SAVE Act as November elections approach.