An initiative in Michigan to amend the state constitution to require proof of citizenship when voting has been approved to move forward. The ballot measure, approved by the state Board of Canvassers, would mandate voters to show a birth certificate, passport, or other citizenship verification document when registering to vote. It would also eliminate the option of signing an affidavit as an alternative for those without a photo ID when voting.
The Committee to Protect Voters’ Rights, the group behind the initiative, argues that the measure would help reduce voter fraud. However, critics are concerned that the requirements may create unnecessary obstacles for eligible voters. In order for the measure to appear on the ballot, supporters must gather 450,000 signatures by mid-October and then be approved by voters to amend the state constitution.
The decision to move forward with the initiative comes after the Secretary of State reported that 15 non-citizens voted in Michigan during the 2024 election, accounting for 0.00028% of the total votes cast. Thirteen of those individuals have been referred to the Attorney General’s office for possible charges, while one has passed away and the other remains under investigation. This initiative has sparked a debate about voting rights and the balance between preventing fraud and ensuring access to the ballot box.
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