Please write and oppose legislation related to bills that if passed, would grant voting rights in municipal elections, to non-citizens. Please send the emails to your Reps only.

Thanks!

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Dear (Rep or Sen),

There are several bills introduced that are related to granting voting rights in municipal elections, to non-citizens.  These include but are not limited to S. 512, H.855, H.810, H. 866, H.3918, H.861, H3919, HD.542, and H.4033. It is vital to recognize the profound implications such a change would have on the foundation of American democracy. The following are the key reasons for opposing these bills, emphasizing the importance of preserving the sanctity of citizenship and the integrity of the electoral process.

• Non-citizens, by definition, do not possess the same allegiance to American culture or the Constitution as citizens do. Citizenship is more than just legal status; it signifies a commitment to the values, principles, and laws that govern the nation.

• Allowing non-citizens to vote could risk diluting the very foundation of this great nation, as their interests and perspectives might at times conflict with those of American citizens.

• Their participation in elections could potentially influence the outcome in ways that might not reflect the will of the citizenry. This divergence could lead to decisions that prioritize non-citizen interests over those of the citizens, undermining the principle of governance by the people.

• The right to vote has always been a privilege reserved for citizens. This distinction is crucial in maintaining the significance of citizenship. If non-citizens were allowed to vote, it would dilute the meaning of citizenship and de-incentivize non-citizens from becoming citizens through the legal process. Citizenship should remain a status that individuals strive to achieve, embracing the responsibilities and privileges it entails.

• Voting is a key component of representation in the American system of government. Allowing non-citizens to vote imposes on national sovereignty and the principle that the nation should be governed by its citizens.

• Ensuring that only eligible voters participate in elections is critical for election integrity. Adding non-citizens to the voter rolls can complicate the process of verifying voter eligibility and maintaining accurate voter lists.

• Allowing non-citizens to vote could affect public trust in the electoral system. If citizens believe that non-citizens are influencing election outcomes, it could lead to decreased confidence in the process and in American institutions. Trust in the electoral system is foundational to a functioning democracy, and any actions that undermine this trust should be carefully scrutinized and avoided.

• Many immigrants to the city come from countries where they have never experienced real democracy. Even those coming from truly democratic nations have not experienced the United States’ unique brand of democracy. New citizens must pass a test on American history and civics for just this reason. This process ensures that they understand and appreciate the values and principles that underpin American democracy, further reinforcing the importance of citizenship in voting rights.

In conclusion, it is essential to oppose the bills that would allow non-citizens to vote in municipal elections. The right to vote is a fundamental privilege that should remain exclusive to citizens. Preserving the integrity of citizenship and the electoral process is crucial for maintaining the trust and functionality of American democracy. Non-citizens should be encouraged to pursue citizenship through the legal process, thereby fully embracing the responsibilities and privileges that come with it. By ensuring that only eligible voters participate in elections, we can uphold the principles of representation and national sovereignty, fostering a democracy that truly reflects the will of its citizens.

Sincerely,

(name)

(city)