House Republicans have unveiled a new package of election security legislation, looking ahead to the 2026 elections. The bills, introduced by Republican Study Committee Chairman, aim to address concerns about noncitizen influence in elections.
The legislation includes three key components:
- A bill to prevent noncitizen residents of Washington, D.C. from voting in local elections
- A bill to prohibit noncitizens from participating in election administration
- A constitutional amendment to bar noncitizens from voting
While federal law already prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections, the issue remains relevant at the state and local levels. Currently, no state in the U.S. allows noncitizens to vote in statewide elections, but some local jurisdictions, such as Washington, D.C., permit noncitizen voting.
Republican lawmakers argue that safeguarding the integrity of elections is crucial for upholding democracy. They emphasize the need to prevent noncitizen influence in the electoral process to maintain the sovereignty of the nation.
Earlier this year, House Republicans passed the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which mandates proof of citizenship during voter registration. The GOP's efforts to tighten voting regulations have faced criticism from Democrats, who accuse them of sowing doubt about election processes.
Despite pushback from Democrats, Republicans are forging ahead with their election security agenda, introducing legislation well in advance of the 2026 midterm elections. The move is seen as a strategic maneuver to address concerns about noncitizen voting before the next major electoral cycle.
Border security and immigration reform are expected to feature prominently in the GOP's broader policy initiatives, including upcoming legislation via the budget reconciliation process.
