Michigan House Democrats Challenge Proposed Voter ID Amendments
In a heated debate, Michigan’s House Democrats have opposed a joint resolution that seeks to amend the state Constitution by requiring additional proof of citizenship for voting. The proposed changes could potentially transform the current voter identification process.
Concerns have been raised by House Democrats about the potential obstacles this resolution might create for eligible voters. Under the proposal, individuals registering to vote post-December 18, 2026, would need to provide documentary proof of their U.S. citizenship or have it verified by the Secretary of State.
Failure to present such proof would still allow individuals to vote; however, they would have to use a provisional ballot. To have this ballot counted, the necessary photo identification must be shown within six days following the election.
Republican legislators introduced this resolution, citing an alleged voter fraud incident in October 2024 as a cautionary example. A University of Michigan student, Haoxiang Gao, originally from China, allegedly cast a vote despite not being a U.S. citizen, leading to felony charges.
Proposed Changes to Voter Identification
Currently, Michigan law allows voters to verify their identity through signature matching by election officials. The state Constitution also permits the use of a photo ID or a signed affidavit for identity verification during voting or absentee ballot applications. The new resolution aims to eliminate the affidavit option, mandating a provisional ballot for those lacking photo ID.
To verify citizenship, the resolution suggests using documents like a driver’s license or the last four digits of a Social Security number. The definition of acceptable identification would be determined by the state Legislature, as detailed in a House Fiscal Agency legislative analysis.
For those unable to afford these identification documents, a process would be established to claim financial hardship and receive the necessary ID at no cost. Additionally, the resolution proposes an annual citizenship verification process by the Secretary of State, with findings reported to Congress.
Democratic Concerns Over Voter Access
House Democrats voiced their objections in Lansing, highlighting potential impacts on various groups. Representative Mai Xiong (D-Warren) expressed concerns for senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, military personnel abroad, and married women who have changed their names.
“These are unnecessary barriers being put between Michiganders and the ballot box,” Xiong stated, emphasizing the importance of accessible voting. She also noted that young voter turnout is already low and should be encouraged, not hindered.
Representative Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing) argued that voter fraud is exceedingly rare in Michigan, a stance supported by the Michigan Department of State’s election fact center. She warned that the resolution could impose undue burdens, particularly on marginalized communities.
“This resolution makes it harder for everyday Michiganders to register and exercise our right to vote,” Tsernoglou remarked. “It effectively ensures that thousands of American citizens will be denied the right to vote.”
Representative Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth) highlighted potential financial barriers, noting the costs of acquiring necessary identification documents. He criticized the resolution as addressing a “fake problem” at the expense of voter access.
The resolution is set for a second reading in the House of Representatives and requires a two-thirds majority vote in both legislative houses before being put to a public vote in 2026.
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