Wisconsin voters have approved a constitutional amendment that specifically prohibits noncitizens from participating in any elections within the state, as reported by CBS News. This statewide referendum was introduced by Republican legislators and aims to clarify voting eligibility in the state constitution.
The amendment modifies Article III, Section 1 of the Wisconsin Constitution, which previously stated that “Every United States citizen age 18 or older who is a resident of an election district in this state is a qualified elector of that district.” Following the election, this language will now read: “Only a United States citizen age 18 or older who is a resident of an election district in this state is a qualified elector of that district.”
To become effective, such amendments require passage in two consecutive legislative sessions along with a statewide referendum. Republican lawmakers passed the measure in 2022 and again last year, without any support from Democratic lawmakers. It’s important to note that Governor Tony Evers does not participate in the approval process for constitutional amendments.
The motivation behind this amendment aligns with broader actions taken by the GOP across the nation, prompted by certain municipalities in select states allowing noncitizen voting in local elections. Currently, just 17 municipalities in the U.S. permit this practice, none of which are in Wisconsin. The majority of state constitutions do not allow noncitizens to vote, and federal laws already prohibit noncitizen participation in federal elections. Advocates for the amendment argue it is essential for maintaining election integrity.
Rep. Tyler August, the Republican majority leader of the state assembly, stressed the desire to eliminate any ambiguity regarding voting rights for noncitizens in Wisconsin. “We’re just trying to make it crystal clear in Wisconsin that voting is reserved for U.S. citizens only,” he stated, while cautioning against potential futures where noncitizen voting may be permitted.
Opponents of the amendment, including Democrats and various advocacy groups, argue that it is unnecessary and primarily motivated by the desire to energize conservative voters while fostering negative sentiments toward immigrants. They claim that making citizenship proof a requirement could discourage eligible voters from participating in elections due to the challenges in obtaining such documentation.
Critics like Jeff Mandell from Law Forward described the amendment as “a solution in search of a problem,” and Debra Cronmiller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, characterized it as “offensive” for changing the inclusive wording of the constitution.
Overall, the amendment reflects a significant political effort within Wisconsin amid a broader national debate over voting rights and election integrity. While it has drawn both support and opposition, it emphasizes the ongoing discussions regarding the role of citizenship in electoral processes across the country.
In summary, the approval of this amendment showcases both a prominent shift in the voting landscape of Wisconsin and echoes larger national trends, where similar provisions are being entertained in several states. As discussions around voting rights continue, it is important for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue that considers the balance between security and accessibility in the electoral process.