Speaker Mike Johnson announced today that House Republicans are introducing a new bill that would require every voter to show proof of U.S. citizenship before casting a ballot in federal elections.
Johnson framed the proposal as a “critical election-integrity measure,” arguing that it would strengthen public confidence in future elections and close what he described as “dangerous loopholes” in voter registration systems.
The legislation, expected to be formally introduced this week, would mandate voters to present documents such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers at the polls or when registering.
GOP leaders say the bill is designed to prevent non-citizens from voting—though documented cases of such violations remain rare.
Democrats immediately blasted the move as a restrictive measure that could create new barriers for millions of eligible voters.
Several civil-rights groups warned the bill could disproportionately affect seniors, low-income Americans, and natural-born citizens who lack ready access to government documents.
Despite the political clash, Johnson said Republicans are prepared to “fight for this until it becomes law,” setting the stage for a heated election-year showdown over voting rights and election security.
