by: John Clore | 3/4/2025 at 11:21 AM
On March 4, 2025, the Michigan House of Representatives’ Election Integrity Committee convened to discuss a pivotal bill introduced by Representative Bryan Posthumus (R). This proposed legislation aims to enhance the integrity of Michigan’s electoral process by mandating verification of U.S. citizenship for voter registration and strengthening voter identification requirements. legislature.mi.gov
In January 2025, Michigan House Republicans introduced House Joint Resolution B, proposing a constitutional amendment to require proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration and to modify voter identification requirements. This proposal aims to ensure that only U.S. citizens can register and vote in Michigan elections. legislature.mi.gov
The resolution specifies that individuals registering to vote after December 18, 2026, must verify their U.S. citizenship through one of the following methods: michiganpublic.org
Presenting documentary proof of citizenship at the time of registration or subsequently to the Secretary of State or local clerks.legislature.mi.gov
Having the Secretary of State verify their citizenship status.
Additionally, the proposal mandates that the statewide qualified voter file indicate whether an individual’s citizenship has been verified, ensuring that voter registration lists used at polling places are consistent with this file. legislature.mi.gov
This legislative initiative follows an October 2024 incident where a non-U.S. citizen, a University of Michigan student from China, was charged with illegally voting in the general election. The student registered and cast a ballot in Ann Arbor, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the current system. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized that state law clearly prohibits non-citizens from voting and that such allegations are taken very seriously. michigan.gov
Advocacy for Strengthening Voter Integrity
Proponents of the bill argue that these measures are essential to ensure that only eligible U.S. citizens participate in elections, thereby safeguarding an honest process. Representative Ann Bollin (R) testified that implementing such requirements would assist the Secretary of State in maintaining accurate voter rolls, effectively preventing ineligible individuals from casting ballots.
The necessity of this legislation is underscored by incidents of illegal ballot casting in Michigan. For instance, in November 2024, a Chinese national was charged with voter fraud after illegally participating in the U.S. presidential election. This case highlights vulnerabilities in the current system and the need for more stringent verification processes.
Additionally, the issue of outdated voter rolls has been a concern. Ensuring that deceased individuals are promptly removed from voter lists is crucial to prevent potential misuse. Accurate voter rolls are fundamental to upholding the integrity of elections and maintaining public trust in the electoral system.
Opposition and Concerns
Despite these arguments, the bill has encountered significant opposition, primarily from Democratic members and civil rights organizations. Representative Matt Koleszar (D) referenced a federal judge’s statement asserting that Michigan maintains some of the most accurate voter rolls in the country, suggesting that additional measures may be unnecessary.
Representative Stephen Wooden (D) expressed concerns that the proposed legislation could inadvertently jeopardize the votes of legal citizens, potentially disenfranchising eligible voters. The Legislative Director for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) also opposed the bill, stating that it could disenfranchise over 40,000 voters, particularly among marginalized communities.
Committee Deliberations
During the committee hearing, several key exchanges highlighted the complexities surrounding the bill:
Representative Patrick Outman (R) inquired of the Deputy Secretary of State about potential solutions to ensure non-citizens cannot vote. The question remained unanswered, leaving concerns about enforcement unaddressed.
Representative Mike Hoadley (R) sought clarification on acceptable forms of voter identification, to which the Deputy Secretary responded that a passport would suffice. This exchange underscored the need for clear guidelines on identification requirements.
Committee Chair Representative Rachelle Smit (R) spoke against Democrat concerns about potential disenfranchisement of women due to name changes after marriage. She argued that marriage licenses serve as official records, ensuring that such voters would not be adversely affected.
A notable moment occurred when Representative Posthumus accused Representative Koleszar of attacking his integrity by suggesting that the bill would implement a “poll tax,” a claim Posthumus vehemently denied.
Public Support for the Bill
Patrice Johnson, representing Pure Integrity Michigan Elections (PIME), voiced strong support for the bill. She highlighted serious issues with voter rolls, noting instances where the number of registered voters exceeded the number of eligible voters. Johnson urged collaboration with the Election Integrity Committee to ensure fair elections and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Partisan Dynamics and Legal Context
The bill has illuminated partisan divisions, with strong Democratic opposition suggesting concerns about potential voter suppression. It’s noteworthy that key positions within the Michigan state government, including Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Attorney General Dana Nessel, are held by Democrats. Both have expressed reservations about the necessity and implications of the proposed legislation.
Secretary Benson has previously faced legal challenges regarding Michigan’s voter rolls. In October 2024, a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by the Republican National Committee alleging inadequate maintenance of voter registration records, affirming the state’s compliance with federal laws.
Conclusion
The debate over Representative Posthumus’s bill underscores the ongoing national discourse on election integrity. While ensuring that only eligible U.S. citizens can vote is paramount to a fair an honest process, it is equally important to consider the potential impact on voter accessibility and participation. As Michigan navigates these complex issues, the balance between securing elections and protecting voter rights remains a critical focus for legislators and citizens alike.