Wyoming, Arkansas, and other Republican-led states are taking bold steps to protect election integrity. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wyoming passes citizenship proof law: Voters must now show citizenship to register.
- Texas election law overturned: A federal judge struck down a rule requiring ID for mail-in ballots.
- Arkansas fights ballot fraud: New laws aim to stop fake signatures and out-of-state influence.
- Conservative states lead the charge: 66 election laws have been passed, with more on the way.
Wyoming Leads on Citizenship Proof for Voting
Wyoming made headlines this week by passing a law requiring voters to prove they’re U.S. citizens before registering. This law, championed by Trump, is the latest in a growing trend of states tightening election rules.
Republican Governor Mark Gordon surprisingly didn’t sign the bill, but it became law anyway. While similar laws in Kansas and Arizona are stuck in court, Wyoming is preparing for a legal fight. When challenged, the state plans to present evidence of election fraud to defend its law.
Texas Election Law Tossed by Federal Judge
Meanwhile, in Texas, a liberal federal judge threw out a 2021 law designed to reduce mail-in ballot fraud. The law required voters to include an ID number to confirm they mailed their ballot.Helpers assisting voters also had to sign an oath under penalty of perjury.
The judge’s ruling means Texas voters, especially seniors and those with disabilities, can still mail in ballots without extra ID checks. Supporters of the law argue this makes elections less secure.
Arkansas Fights Fraud in Ballot Initiatives
Arkansas is taking a unique approach to election integrity by targeting ballot initiatives. These initiatives allow voters to decide on laws directly, but they’ve become a tool for out-of-state donors to influence elections.
Liberals often hire petition gatherers to collect signatures for issues like abortion, marijuana, and gambling. Once on the ballot, they spend heavily to pass these measures. Arkansas aims to stop this by passing several new laws:
- Informing signers about fraud: Petition gatherers must tell signers that fraud is a crime.
- Requiring photo IDs: Voters must show ID when signing petitions.
- Rejecting tainted signatures: If a gatherer breaks the law, their signatures won’t count.
- Ensuring understanding: Signers must hear the petition’s title before signing.
- Sworn compliance: Gatherers must swear they followed the law.
These rules aim to stop fake signatures and ensure only legitimate issues make it to the ballot. Other conservative states, like Ohio and Missouri, are urged to follow Arkansas’ lead.
Why Election Integrity Matters
Elections are often decided by tiny margins. When fraud or abuse occurs, it can change the outcome. That’s why states are stepping up to protect the process.
So far, states with Republican control have passed 66 election laws. Many more are in the works this spring. Wyoming, Arkansas, Utah, Mississippi, and South Dakota are leading the way.
The Fight Ahead
Liberal groups and out-of-state donors will likely challenge these laws in court. Arkansas’ new rules, for example, could face lawsuits claiming they restrict voting rights. But supporters argue these laws are necessary to restore trust in elections.
As the 2024 elections approach, the battle over election integrity will only grow. States taking action now may set the tone for the future of American voting.