As Congress prepares to vote on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, local leaders across New York are voicing strong opinions about the bill’s impact. The legislation would require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections—a change that has sparked debate across party lines.
What the SAVE Act Proposes
The bill would mandate that anyone registering to vote in federal elections must present official documents proving U.S. citizenship. Supporters say it’s a necessary step to protect election integrity. Opponents warn it could disenfranchise eligible voters, especially women and marginalized communities.
Congressman Morelle Raises Concerns
Democratic Congressman Joe Morelle, who represents New York’s 25th District, criticized the bill. He believes it creates unnecessary barriers to voting.
“This would impose burdensome rules at a time when we should be making it easier to vote,” Morelle said. “The right to vote is a right.”
He specifically expressed concern for married women who have changed their names, noting how difficult it might be to produce the required documentation.
“You’d need a birth certificate, a marriage certificate, and possibly a passport,” he said. “But most driver’s licenses don’t show citizenship. And fewer than half of Americans have a passport.”
Tied to Trump’s Executive Order
The bill follows Executive Order 14248, recently signed by President Donald Trump. The order includes similar language requiring proof of citizenship and purging non-citizens from voter rolls.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), a staunch supporter of both the order and the bill, praised the move.
“As Chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, I’m thrilled. This will help secure our elections and restore faith in our democratic process,” Tenney said.
What’s Next?
The SAVE Act is expected to go to a vote in the Republican-controlled House in the coming days. Although it may pass the House, it could face legal challenges and resistance in the Senate.
For now, election officials urge the public to stay informed and watch for updates.
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